Worship Times

The Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of Sacraments plans to publish the Latin text of the new updated Roman Missal this fall. The difference between the present missal, which dates from 1970, and the new edition lies above all in the addition of various saints’ days throughout the year and the enrichment of traditional prayers, especially during Lent. Certain modifications have also been made to the Institutio Generalis or introductory text, which gives precise indications on how Mass must be celebrated. It is not clear how this announcement affects the current English revision of the sacramentary that is awaiting confirmation by the Apostolic See.

Funeral protection

Your tax dollars are at work in helping parishioners make decisions about funerals. The Federal Trade Commission has just published Funerals: A Consumer Guide, which addresses many of the financial issues involved in planning a funeral. Donna Mills of the Bureau of Consumer Protections said, “When a loved one dies, grieving family members and friends often are confronted with dozens of decisions about the funeral — all of which must be made quickly and often under great duress. Compounding the stress is the fact that funerals rank among the most expensive purchases many consumers will ever make.”

A traditional funeral, including a casket and vault, costs about $6,000, according to the publication. However, “extras” such as flowers, obituary notices, acknowledgment cards or limousines can up the price to well over $10,000. The FTC document urges pre-planning and shopping around. Other suggestions include asking for a price list, resisting pressure to buy goods and services that aren’t really needed, and knowing your rights. The booklet also contains a handy list of prices to check when comparing funeral homes. 

The document is posted online at www.ftc.gov under “Consumer Protection.” Parishes and individuals can also order free copies of the booklet from the FTC’s Consumer Response Center, 600 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20580. Call toll-free 877-382-4357. ML

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