Catholic Funeral & Burial Resources

Whether you are planning for the future, making arrangements after the loss of a loved one, or simply seeking to understand the Catholic Church's teachings on burial and funeral rites, we are here to help.

Catholic Cemeteries of the Diocese of Toledo is committed to serving families with compassion, dignity, and faith. The Diocese of Toledo owns and operates three Catholic cemeteries in Toledo, offering sacred places where the faithful may be laid to rest and where families can come to pray, remember, and find peace.

Because every Catholic family deserves guidance and support during times of loss and planning, this resource center is intended for all of the faithful throughout the Diocese of Toledo. Whether you are making arrangements with one of our diocesan cemeteries, a parish cemetery, or another cemetery, you will find practical guidance, Church teaching, and resources to help you navigate Catholic funeral planning, burial, cremation, and preparing for the future.

How can we help?

I Have Recently Lost a Loved One

The loss of someone we love brings grief, questions, and many decisions. The Catholic Church walks with families during this difficult time through prayer, pastoral care, and the funeral rites.

This guide will help you understand the first steps after a death, including:

  • Contacting your parish

  • Working with a funeral home

  • Making arrangements with a cemetery

  • Understanding Catholic funeral rites

  • Preparing for the Rite of Committal

  • Finding additional support and resources

Learn What to Do When a Loved One Dies

I Want to Plan Ahead

Planning ahead is an act of love and consideration for your family. Pre-planning allows you to make thoughtful decisions at your own pace and provides peace of mind for those you leave behind.

Planning ahead may include:

  • Selecting burial or entombment options

  • Exploring cemetery locations

  • Understanding burial rights

  • Reviewing pricing and fees

  • Considering memorialization options

  • Recording personal wishes and preferences

Explore Planning Ahead Resources

I Want to Understand Catholic Funeral Practices

The Catholic Church accompanies families through the Order of Christian Funerals, a series of sacred rites that proclaim our hope in Christ's Resurrection while honoring the life of a loved one.

You'll find information about:

  • The purpose and meaning of Catholic funeral rites

  • The Vigil, Funeral Mass, and Rite of Committal

    Common questions about funeral practices and traditions

Learn About Catholic Funeral Rites

Frequently Asked Questions

Have a question? We've gathered answers to many of the questions families most commonly ask about Catholic cemeteries, burial, cremation, and funeral planning.

You'll find information about:

  • Who owns Catholic cemetery property?

  • Can non-Catholics be buried in a Catholic cemetery?

  • What happens with cremated remains?

  • Why are there cemetery regulations?

  • Why should families consider planning ahead?

  • What memorial options are available?

View our FAQs

I Want to Understand the Catholic Teaching on Cremation

Many families have questions about cremation and what the Catholic Church teaches. This guide explains the Church's approach to cremation while emphasizing the dignity of the human person and our hope in the Resurrection.

You'll find information about:

  • When cremation is permitted

  • The Church's preference for burial

  • Caring for cremated remains

  • Frequently asked questions about Catholic cremation

Learn About Catholic Cremation