SOMETHING TO THINK ABOUT FOR THE FUTURE - Our own funeral Mass or a funeral for someone we love: An emerging trend is to have a service or gathering at a funeral home or a community club house instead of a Funeral Mass in the church....or no service at all. This decision is often based on convenience and without the realization that the Mass of Christian Burial is part of the Ritual Prayer celebrated by Catholics for one who has died. Rarely should a service at a funeral home or club house take the place of a Mass of Christian Burial. Celebrating the Eucharist for those we love expresses our deepest ties and relationships. Please think and pray about this for yourself and those you love. Fr. Mike