Following are resources that offer information, commentary, or experiences about funerals & memorials, which are important aspects of personal end-of-life decision-making by individuals or by their agents/representatives. These links are provided for illustrative purposes only. Use them in your own discretion. Act with the advice of a qualified professional.
"Details of Death -- Not all cultures fear the Reaper like we do", by Nicole Stewart (03/29/07) -- Synopis: "Scared of death? Not all cultures see death as such a negative. [Professor] Christopher Carr encourages you to “explore the positive” side of your demise."
"Death Becomes Them" , by Jessica Leshnoff -- "A local mortuary science program trains students for one job that will never run out of customers." (03/02/07).
Excerpt: "For centuries, cremation was forbidden for Catholics. But in 1963, that changed, and Catholics could opt for cremation if the body was still present for a funeral Mass and cremation occurred later, or if a Memorial Mass was celebrated without the body. Then, in 1997, the American bishops received an indult that permitted the presence of cremated remains at the funeral Mass, and today, cremation is quickly becoming a preferred option for many Catholics, particularly those with a mind toward ecology and even economy."
"Grieving goes digital as funeral webcasts debut", by Mary Vallis & Katie Rook (03/29/07) -- Synopsis: "The Internet is changing the way people grieve. More and more funeral homes are offering live Webcasts so people can mourn their loved ones without leaving home. The concept has found favour with far-flung relatives and families where there are acrimonious feelings that makes it difficult for everyone to grieve in the same room together."