Expert: Sal - 8/18/2009

Question
I have a friend of several years whose wife was a practicing Catholic.  She would attend church.  He did not. Two months ago, his wife died and was buried in a Catholic cemetery. He has great remorse.  I think it is not only because of his wife's death, but also because he chose to disregard a religion in which his wife was deeply involved. Although in her last days, she was too weak to attend church alone, and my friend took her to mass.
   He is worried that, when he dies, he will be unable to be buried next to his wife. It would give him peace of mind if he were to know what he needs to do to be buried in that Catholic cemetery by his spouse. What does he need to do to insure that he can be buried in that Catholic cemetery by his wife? I do not know if he has been baptized or confirmed, but I could find out.

Answer
Dear Don:
I'm not an expert in this area. My expertise is the Bible. However, it seems that he should become an active Catholic. He should begin by attending mass again. He should speak to a priest about his concerns. If he becomes an active Catholic this would be a great way to honor his wife.

Best Wishes,
Sal