Question for the Catholics

[anj_rn]

My great grandmother had a stroke last week and has been placed in hospice.  She is a life long Catholic, but has not belonged to a parish in years ( a retired prient has come to visit and administer sacraments).  However, I have not been able to get in touch with him.  I am need to find a priest to perform a funeral mass when she passes (which will be soon).  Can anyone guide me on how to do that?  She has already had last rites at the hospital.  Should I just call the archdiocese?  No one else in the family is Catholic, but I feel stringly that her religious beleifs should be homored, especially in death.

[Lisoula]

Does she still reside in the same area of the last parish she was a member of?  If so, I would call the priest of that parish.  If not, I would call the church office of the parish nearest her and start there.

[Trigger]

You might start by explaining the situation to the hospital chaplain & asking for advice ... even if the hospital doesn't have a Catholic chaplain, they should be able to help you out.

[Lollybrat]

I think it is wonderful that you want to honor your great-grandmother's faith. I am sorry to read that her health is failing.

Catholic parishes have geographic boundaries and are obligated to serve Catholics who are living within those boundaries whether that person is a registered parishoner or not.

I suggest you call the nearest parish and talk to the church secretary. This is probably not an uncommon situation and the secretary should be able to help you out.

My thoughts and prayers are with you at this difficult time.

[lilyka]

you can call the nearest church or the diocese for help.  I am sure hey would be happy to direct you where you need to go.  Also the hospice should be able to tell you who to call.

:hug

[chfriend]

My sister and mom found this site useful when planning my father's recent memorial mass: http://www.catholicfunerals.co.nz/httpdocs/index.cfm  . It might help you plan once you are working with a parish.

May you be comforted.

[anj_rn]

Thank you so much.  I was able to find a priest through the parish area she lives in.  I really appreciate everyone's help & input.