A Catholic Approach to Life, Death & Eternity

Preparing well is an act of faith and love.

Planning for the future is something we all know is important, yet conversations about life’s final chapters can be difficult to begin.

As Catholics, we are called to approach these decisions with faith, wisdom, and trust in God’s promises. Preparing well is not simply about making arrangements for ourselves. It is also an act of love for those who will one day carry out our wishes and care for those we leave behind.

St. Paul the Apostle Parish invites you to explore these important topics through engaging discussions, messages from Father Wilson, and helpful resources to guide you and your loved ones.

Whether you’re planning for yourself, caring for a family member, or simply beginning to think about the future, we hope you’ll find encouragement and practical guidance here.

Join Us for Our Preparing Well Discussion Series

Preparing Well: A Catholic Approach to Life, Death & Eternity. Navigating difficult end-of-life decisions through our Catholic faith. Wednesday, November 4, 9:30 to 11:00 AM, Room LL3. Planning Ahead Discussion Panel: Shaun Carney, CFP, Balance Wealth: financial and charitable planning. Jeff Moore, Catholic Cemeteries: Catholic funeral and burial planning. Tom Schmitt, Esq., EQUES Law: wills, trusts, and estate planning. Loren Brown, The Catholic Foundation: leaving a legacy of faith. Fr. Jonathan Wilson, Pastor: Catholic funeral and burial traditions. Dr. Laurie Navin, Coordinator of Marriage & Family Life: planning a funeral at St. Paul. Join us for a practical and informative discussion about planning for the future, caring for loved ones, and leaving a meaningful legacy. Questions are welcome! Part Two: Moral Decisions at the End of Life, November 11.
Preparing Well: A Catholic Approach to Life, Death & Eternity. Navigating difficult end-of-life decisions through our Catholic faith. Wednesday, November 11, 9:30 to 11:00 AM, Room LL3. Moral Decisions at the End of Life Discussion Panel: Dr. Thomas Brady, MD, Mount Carmel Health System: real world healthcare decisions. Dr. Michael S. Parker, MD, KM, Ohio Health: Catholic moral teaching and bioethics. Tom Schmitt, Esq., EQUES Law: healthcare directives. Fr. Jonathan Wilson, Pastor: spiritual and pastoral care at the end of life. Dr. Laurie Navin, Coordinator of Marriage & Family Life: caring for yourself while supporting a loved one. Join us for a practical and informative panel discussion on caring for loved ones, making difficult healthcare decisions, and finding spiritual and emotional support at the end of life. Bring your questions!

Messages From Father Wilson


Watch the Planning Ahead Discussion Panel

The full November 4 session, covering financial and charitable planning, Catholic funeral and burial planning, wills and trusts, and leaving a legacy of faith, with questions from those who attended.


St. Paul Legacy Society

A Legacy of Faith for Generations to Come

“I have kept the faith.” — 2 Timothy 4:7

For generations, the faith and generosity of parishioners have helped make St. Paul the Apostle Parish a vibrant community of worship, fellowship, service, and Catholic education.

The St. Paul Legacy Society recognizes those who have chosen to remember our parish through their estate plans or other planned gifts, helping ensure that our mission continues for generations to come.

As a special expression of gratitude, St. Paul will offer an annual Mass for Legacy Society members and host an annual appreciation gathering to celebrate their generosity and commitment to our parish.

Including St. Paul in your legacy is a meaningful way to express gratitude for the blessings you’ve received and share your faith with those who follow.

Whether you’ve already included St. Paul in your estate plans or are simply interested in learning more, we welcome the opportunity to connect with you.

All inquiries and conversations are welcome and will be treated with care and confidentiality.


Questions? We’re Here to Help.

We understand that preparing for the future can bring up personal questions and important decisions. Whether you’re looking for parish resources, guidance on Catholic funeral planning, or information about the Legacy Society, we’re happy to help connect you with the right person.

Contact St. Paul the Apostle Parish
Michael Heyeck, Director of Operations
Email: mheyeck@stpacc.org | Phone: 614-882-2109 ext. 226

Preparing well is an act of faith and love.