Called Home

Why Called Home?

The title itself is a message of peace. “Called Home” reframes end-of-life preparation not as fear or loss, but as a return to love. It evokes the comfort of being received by God, the joy of reunion, and the tenderness of caring for one another in the light of eternity. It’s universal, compassionate, and deeply Catholic—rooted in resurrection hope.

How the Copy Flows

This isn’t a policy document. It’s a pastoral journey that mirrors Catholic life and faith. The guide unfolds in three simple paths:

1. Spiritual Path — Preparing the soul through prayer, reconciliation, and the sacraments.
2. Family Path — Bringing peace to loved ones by organizing personal and medical affairs with clarity and care.
3. Legacy Path — Extending love and gratitude through a lasting Catholic legacy that strengthens the Church for future generations.

Each page invites reflection, offers reassurance, and ends with gentle action steps. Readers feel guided, accompanied, and loved by their Church.

Why it Makes Logical (and Pastoral) Sense

• Faith first: Preparation for death is preparation for heaven; the booklet makes that truth practical and approachable.
• Clarity for families: It relieves decision-making burdens by uniting theology with real-life planning.
• Trust in the Church: It shows that the diocese cares for the whole person—spiritual, emotional, and practical.

The Subtle Art of Stewardship

Stewardship is woven in without ever saying “fundraising.” The Legacy Path invites prayer and discernment, presenting generosity as a joyful extension of faith—not a transaction. It opens the heart before it opens a checkbook, which is how stewardship should feel.

Why Every Diocese Needs It

1. Strengthens parish relationships: Families who plan ahead experience peace; pastors who guide them build lifelong trust.
2. Inspires true stewardship: Gratitude leads to enduring support for the Church’s mission.
3. Reflects pastoral excellence: One resource that beautifully integrates sacraments, ethics, funeral planning, and legacy.
4. Turnkey yet customizable: Placeholders for diocesan names, contacts, and foundations make local adoption simple.

A Gentle Comparison

You already offer strong diocesan materials. Called Home complements them by leading with faith, not finances. Where typical brochures may begin with memorial options or gift mechanics, this guide begins with the heart—then naturally, comfortably, invites a legacy of gratitude. It is the pastoral bridge that turns faith into action.

The Emotional Advantage

• It talks about coming home instead of simply death.
• It celebrates legacy instead of pressing for donations.
• It offers peace instead of prompting fear.

When families hold it, they don’t feel marketed to—they feel ministered to.

Inside the Booklet

Remembering what shaped you from birth — and how your faith can help shape others for generations to come. Here’s what you’ll find inside Called Home: A Catholic Guide to Faith, Hope, and Legacy:

• Bishop’s Letter: A message of peace, preparation, and faith from your shepherd.
• Start Here – Three Paths, One Journey: Understanding the Catholic vision of life, death, and legacy.
• The Spiritual Path
  • Spiritual Preparation: Prayer, sacraments, and reflection — preparing the soul before all else.
  • Making Peace: Reconciliation and forgiveness across life’s relationships.
• The Family Path
  • Catholic Medical Directives: Upholding dignity and conscience in medical care.
  • End-of-Life Care: Understanding Catholic teaching on treatment and compassion.
  • Organizing Your Affairs: The “Gift of Clarity” checklist and family readiness tools.
  • Funeral Planning: Expressing faith through the Vigil, Funeral Mass, and Rite of Committal.
  • Burial and Cremation: Honoring Catholic tradition and hope in the Resurrection.
  • Having the Conversation: Talking with family about faith, plans, and peace of mind.
  • When Faith Isn’t Shared: Guidance for navigating modern family differences.
• The Legacy Path
  • Your Catholic Legacy: Turning faith into lasting impact through acts of charity.
  • Ways to Give: Bequests, beneficiary designations, and planned gifts that serve both family and Church.
  • Balancing Family and Faith: How to give wisely and generously — your spiritual tithe.
• Comprehensive FAQ: Answers to common questions about Catholic planning and giving.
• Taking Action This Week: The 7-Day Quick Start plan for spiritual and practical steps.
• Prayers and Resources: A companion for reflection, comfort, and continued faith.
• Your Legacy Story: A space to write your personal reflection and testament of faith.
• Back Cover: Next steps and diocesan contact information.

Download the Called Home PDF