The 2025 Catholic Cemetery and Funeral Services of the West (CCFW) Annual Conference brought together funeral and cemetery professionals, clergy, and supplier partners from across the western United States and Canada for three unforgettable days in sunny San Diego, January 27–29.
With the sparkling Mission Bay as our backdrop and a packed schedule of educational sessions, networking, and community, this year’s conference reminded us why we do what we do—and why we do it together.
Highlights from the 2025 Conference
The agenda featured timely, thought-provoking presentations from respected experts in our field:
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“Developing our “Why” and Faith Based Service to our Families: Eternal Rest Grant unto Them, O Lord”
Presented by Sister John Mary Sullivan, FSE -
“Integrating Faith & Business”
Presented by Sam Blair, Keynote -
“Strategic Cemetery Development: Balancing Tradition, Innovation, and Financial Sustainability!”
Presented by Michael Green -
“Adapting to Change: How Shifting Customer Needs are Reshaping the Funeral Industry”
Presented by George Owens & Mike Cooperman -
“Hospitality as Ministry: Welcoming Families with Compassion and Grace”
Presented by Fr. Efrain Bautista
Attendees also engaged in our always-popular Supplier Face-to-FaceTime, discovering new products, services, and innovations—from memorialization and aftercare tools to software and grounds management solutions.
📘 Want the full rundown? View the complete schedule and speaker list in our 2025 Onsite Program.
Community, Connection, and a Bit of California Fun
We were honored to kick off the week with an unforgettable experience—an exclusive tour and debriefing aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln, one of the U.S. Navy’s most storied aircraft carriers. This powerful start to our conference set the tone for a week of meaningful connection and purpose-driven reflection. The evening continued with our President’s Welcome Reception, where old friends reunited and new ones were made against the scenic backdrop of San Diego’s coast.
Rather than the traditional Tuesday group dinner, this year we mixed things up with a stylish group reception featuring an incredible seafood tower and vibrant networking moments. It was a night full of good food, heartfelt conversations, and continued collaboration with colleagues and supplier partners alike.
We were also deeply grateful to conclude our time together with a special tour of Holy Cross Cemetery & Mausoleum, part of the Diocese of San Diego. A heartfelt thank-you goes to Robert Dorsey and his incredible team for their warm hospitality and for sharing the sacred beauty and history of this treasured Catholic resting place.
Thank You to Our 2025 Sponsors
This year’s conference wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of our supplier partners. A heartfelt thank you to:
- AfterCare.Com – Tuesday Coffee & Break Sponsor
- Biondan – Monday Night Welcome Reception Co-Sponsor
- Cemetery360 – Badge and Lanyard Sponsor
- Coldspring – Keynote Session Sponsor
- Davey Tree – Monday Night Welcome Reception Co-Sponsor
- Matthews Cemetery Products – Conference Tote Bags Sponsor
- Paradise Pictures – ⭐️Premier Sponsor⭐️ Tuesday Night Reception
- Strassacker – Monday Night Welcome Reception Co-Sponsor
- Global Bronze – Wednesday Afternoon Break Sponsor
- PlotBox – Monday Night Welcome Reception Co-Sponsor
- LiveControl – Event Wifi Sponsor
A Note of Special Thanks to Our Title Sponsor
We would like to offer our deepest appreciation to the Diocese of San Bernardino Office of Catholic Cemeteries, our 2025 Title Sponsor. Their remarkable generosity and unwavering support were instrumental in creating an elevated and memorable experience for all who attended. Their contribution exemplifies the spirit of service and community that defines our mission, and we are truly grateful for their partnership.
Why We Gather
More than just an annual tradition, the CCFW Conference is a time to recharge professionally and spiritually, to learn from one another, and to recommit to our shared mission—serving families with compassion, excellence, and faith. San Diego offered the perfect mix of coastal serenity and vibrant energy to host these important conversations.
We’re grateful for everyone who joined us and made this event one to remember.
Save the Date: 2026 CCFW Annual Conference in Tucson, Arizona – January 26–28, 2026 🌵
The Catholic Cemetery and Funeral Services of the West (CCFW) is thrilled to announce that our 2026 Annual Conference will be held in the vibrant city of Tucson, Arizona, from January 26 to 28, 2026. This gathering promises to be a meaningful opportunity for funeral and cemetery professionals, clergy, and supplier partners to come together, share insights, and strengthen our shared mission.
What to Expect at the 2026 Conference
Building on the success of our previous conferences, the 2026 event will feature:
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Engaging Educational Sessions: Learn from industry experts on topics that matter most to our community.
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Networking Opportunities: Connect with peers, share experiences, and build lasting relationships.
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Supplier Face-to-FaceTime: Discover the latest products and services in the funeral and cemetery industry.
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Spiritual Enrichment: Participate in Mass and other spiritual activities that reinforce our Catholic identity.
Experience Tucson’s Unique Charm
Tucson, known for its stunning desert landscapes and rich cultural heritage, offers an inspiring backdrop for our conference. Attendees can look forward to:
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Exploring Local Attractions: From the historic Mission San Xavier del Bac to the breathtaking Saguaro National Park, there’s much to see and do.
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Enjoying Southwestern Cuisine: Savor the flavors of the Southwest with Tucson’s renowned culinary offerings.
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Participating in Cultural Events: Engage with local traditions and arts that make Tucson a unique destination.
📅 Mark Your Calendars
Don’t miss this opportunity to grow professionally and spiritually in the company of fellow Catholic cemetery and funeral service professionals. Save the date: January 26–28, 2026, and stay tuned for more details on registration, accommodations, and the conference agenda.
For the latest updates, visit our Annual Conference page.