Both inside and outside of our parish community, Fr. John has seen people repose in the Lord without having made many – or any – plans for their funeral, or for their estate in general. This leaves family in the lurch, having to make tough decisions on behalf of their loved one who can no longer tell us what they might want.

To help our faithful to plan, the OCA created two forms: one for estate planning (“A Gift for My Loved Ones”) and another for funeral/burial planning (“Another Gift for My Loved Ones”). These forms have been vetted by attorneys and healthcare professionals and are approved by the Holy Synod. They are legal and enforceable (God forbid!) in all 50 States. Both are included in the annual meeting packet. In addition to a proper will, which we ALL should have, all our parishioners – regardless of age – are strongly encouraged to fill out both forms, get them notarized, and make sure your family knows where copies are kept.

Note: Parishioner Aaron Carson is a notary and could be employed to help. Other notaries may be in our parish as well; if so, please see Fr. John.

Working through and sharing the funeral planning form (“Another Gift for My Loved Ones”) helps to ensure that our plans are in conformity with the teachings and practices of the Orthodox Church. If you have questions about anything, see Fr. John.