SUPPORT OF THE CHURCH

A good Catholic death

What is a “good Catholic death” and how can I support my loved ones to prepare?

At the end of life, in sickness or older age, Catholics prepare for death through prayer, acts of love, and the Sacraments of Communion, Reconciliation and the Anointing of the Sick. In this way, Catholics are assured of God’s love and supported by the prayers of the Church. The hope of every Christian is to die in a state of grace, reconciled with God and others.
The following provides more insights into the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick
The final goal of our lives is to see God face to face in heaven, in the company of all the angels and saints. Catholics ask them to pray for us and help us, because death is not a blockage but a bridge for all who love one another in Christ. 

When we die, Christians who freely choose to accept the mercy and salvation Jesus offers, will enter heaven. However, some of the ‘Faithful Departed’ will first need to pass through the purification of purgatory, helped by the prayers of the Church. People in purgatory are already with God, yet they need our prayers to help them to be purified of all the effects of sin and ready to see God face-to-face.

It is a rich consolation to know that we are spiritually united, even now, with those who have died, and when we die, we have the hope of seeing them again ourselves.

Further reading

Additional Living Well Dying Well resources to help you support someone in your network who is facing death.

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Diagnosis of a life-limiting illness
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The journey through life
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Spiritual questions
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Support of the Church

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Contact us

Contact Living Well Dying Well for more information, additional support or to provide feedback.

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Call us on 13 18 19
2C West Street, Lewisham, Sydney NSW 2049