Boots, Cacti and Ministry: A Desert Roundup
Get ready to kick up your boots in Tucson! The 2026 CCFW Annual Conference is heading to the heart of the Sonoran Desert, where cactus-studded landscapes and Southwest hospitality set the stage for an unforgettable gathering.
This is more than a conference — it’s a roundup of Catholic cemetery and funeral service professionals from across the U.S. and Canada coming together to learn, connect and recharge. From inspiring speakers and meaningful sessions to the one-of-a-kind Supplier Face to Face Time and our lively Desert Nights Reception, every moment is designed to spark ideas and strengthen our ministries.
And of course, it wouldn’t be Tucson without a little adventure. Enjoy a local tour, taste the flavors of the Southwest and experience the spirit of the desert alongside friends old and new.
Whether you are attending as a supplier partner or a ministry leader, this roundup promises fresh ideas, fun surprises and a community that celebrates the sacred work we share.
Attendee Registration
For CCFW Members & Invited Guests
*Early Bird Pricing ends December 15th
Download the 2026 Annual Conference Attendee Packet
Be part of two inspiring days filled with learning, networking and community. Registration includes receptions, meals, sessions with high-quality speakers, the Supplier Face to Face Time experience and the always-popular swag bag. You’ll also join us for the Monday Welcome Reception, Tuesday’s Desert Nights event and Wednesday’s Cemetery Tour and Mass. Add-on options are available for additional attendees, spouses or guests, and day passes are offered as well.
Non-members: please email director@ccfwest.org to inquire about membership and registration bundles or to attend as an invited guest.
Vendor Registration
For Supplier Partners
*Early Bird Pricing ends December 15th
Download the 2026 Annual Conference Supplier Prospectus
Must attend full conference in order to reserve a table.
Be part of the most anticipated event of the year. Supplier registration includes tabletop space, Supplier Face to Face Time, meals, receptions and more. Attendee-only options are also available for those who want to network and join sessions without a table.
Tables are first offered to current Supplier Partners and sell out quickly. Registration opens to new or non-partners on November 15.
CCFW Annual Conference Schedule
Time |
What |
| 9:00 – 5:00 PM | Vendor Set Up |
| 1:30 – 5:00 PM | Arizona Tour or Activity |
| 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM | Welcome Reception – Will include hosted bar and heavy appetizers |
Time |
Session |
Speaker |
| 7:30 AM | Breakfast | |
| 8:30 AM | Opening Prayer | TBA |
| 8:35 AM | Opening Remarks | President Al Martini |
| 8:45 AM | The Role of Canon Law in the Ministry of Catholic Cemetery and Funeral Service Personnel |
Father John J. M. Foster |
| 9:45 AM | Break | |
| 10:00 AM | Supplier Face to Face Time | |
| 11:00 AM | Lunch | |
| 12:00 PM | Panel Discussion When the Journey Nears Home: Faith, Care, and Collaboration at Life’s End |
TBA |
| 1:00 PM | Supplier Face to Face Time | |
| 2:45 PM | Board Shuttle for Cemetery Tour | |
| 3:15 PM | Tour Holy Hope Cemetery | |
| 4:30 PM | Mass at St. Augustine Cathedral | |
| 6:00 PM | Desert Evening Reception at Hotel | |
Time |
Session |
Speaker |
| 8:00 AM | Breakfast | |
| 9:00 AM | Opening Prayer | TBA |
| 9:05 AM | Welcome Remarks | President Elect Berenice Rosillo |
| 9:15 AM | “Measuring What Matters: Using Digital Insights to Support Families With Care” | Chris Pace |
| 10:15 AM | Break | |
| 10:30 AM | Supplier Face to Face Time | |
| 12:00 PM | Lunch | |
| 1:00 PM | Ritual Renewed: Catholic Perspectives on Cremation Today | TBA |
| 2:00 PM | Break | |
| 2:15 PM | “Speaking Smart in a Camera-Ready World” | Fields Moseley |
| 3:15 PM | Break | |
| 3:30 PM | CCFW Board State of the Organization | |
Schedule will be updated frequently. Check back for most current version.
Meet our Speakers
Father John J. M. Foster
The Role of Canon Law in the Ministry of Catholic Cemetery and Funeral Service Personnel
Fields Mosely
Speaking Smart in a Camera-Ready World
Chris Pace, MBA
Measuring What Matters: Using Digital Insights to Support Families With Care
Panel Discussion
When the Journey Nears Home: Faith, Care, and Collaboration at Life’s End
This panel brings together hospice, social work, and elder-law leaders to help Catholic deathcare professionals understand what families face before they ever reach the funeral home or cemetery. We’ll explore how early collaboration can ease fear, honor a person’s wishes, and create a smoother, more pastoral transition from the bedside to burial.
Attendees will learn:
- What hospice teams and hospitals discuss with families in the final days
- How Catholic teaching shapes end-of-life decisions
- The legal tools families need to ensure their wishes are followed
- How funeral homes and cemeteries can partner with hospice, clergy, and caregivers
- Practical ways to support families emotionally, spiritually, and logistically
This session offers a clear, compassionate look at how Catholic deathcare fits into the wider end-of-life system and how we can better accompany families when they need it most.
Meet our Panelists - Coming Soon
Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resort and Spa
Hotel Information
Escape to the stunning Sonoran Desert and treat yourself to a serene stay at the Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resort and Spa, where conference comfort meets resort luxury. Nestled at the base of the Santa Catalina Mountains in Tucson, this historic resort blends Southwestern charm with modern amenities—offering spacious casita-style rooms, tranquil walking paths, and breathtaking mountain sunsets.
Why book through our special room block?
Booking within our room block not only guarantees you the best group rate, but it also helps support the conference directly—ensuring we can continue to offer high-quality programming and events. Plus, staying on-site means more time to network, relax, and enjoy all the resort has to offer—from its acclaimed spa and on-site dining to the sparkling pools and star-filled desert skies.
Reserve your spot in the heart of it all—book through our block and experience the Westward Look difference.
CCFW Special Room Block
$159 plus tax for Standard King or Queen Room
- Upgrades Available at Discounted Rates
- Resort fees have been waived.
- Room rate is valid January 17 – January 25, 2026
- 15% Discount off services in the Sonoran Spa for treatments over $100
Last Day to Book: Monday, January 5, 2026.
Reservation requests for rooms within the Guest Room Block received after January 5 will be based on availability at Hotel’s prevailing rates.
Reservations may be made directly with the Hotel at 520-297-1151 or via the booking link below, where reservations may be made, modified, or canceled by individuals online
If the website or reservation line indicates that there are no more rooms available in our block, please contact Heather Pace before booking at a higher rate or choosing another hotel. In most cases, we can add rooms to the block for you. Please email Heather at director@ccfwest.org.
Explore Tucson
Behind-the-Scenes at Biosphere 2
Tuesday, January 20 | 1:30–5:00 PM
Step into one of the most fascinating scientific landmarks on the planet. Biosphere 2 began as an ambitious experiment to understand whether humans could sustain life in a closed ecological system. Today, it is a University of Arizona research site studying climate, water, forests, renewable energy, and the future of our planet.
This exclusive two-hour guided tour takes you deep inside areas most visitors never see. You’ll explore the Human Habitat, walk through the rainforest lowlands, visit the beach biome, climb the library tower, and descend into the Technosphere and the famous “Lung.” Along the way, you’ll hear stories from its 30+ year history—both the groundbreaking discoveries and the quirky real-life moments that made Biosphere 2 world-famous.
Transportation is provided.
Please note: This tour requires navigating stairs and steep terrain and is not accessible for individuals with mobility concerns.
Holy Hope Cemetery Tour & Mass at St. Augustine Cathedral
Wednesday, January 21 | 3:00 – 6:00 PM
Spend the afternoon immersed in Tucson’s rich Catholic heritage. The experience begins at Holy Hope Cemetery, one of the region’s oldest and most storied burial grounds, where you’ll learn about local history, architecture, and the evolution of Catholic burial traditions in the Southwest.
The group will then travel to St. Augustine Cathedral, a landmark of the Diocese of Tucson known for its striking façade and warm desert-inspired design. Attendees are invited to participate in Mass before returning to the hotel for our Desert Evening Reception.
Transportation is provided at no cost; we simply need an accurate head count.
Coming early or staying a little longer in Tucson?
Our partners at Visit Tucson have put together wonderful ideas for how to make the most of your time in the Old Pueblo. From vibrant cultural districts and incredible desert landscapes to unforgettable dining and historic neighborhoods, there’s no shortage of ways to spend a weekend before or after the CCFW Annual Conference. Explore their recommendations and start planning your Tucson adventure.
2026 Sponsorship Opportunities
Show your support for this community of ministry. Sponsorships are open to all and help us create a meaningful experience for every attendee.
Thank you 2026 Sponsors
We are grateful to the Office of Catholic Cemeteries, Diocese of San Bernardino, for their generous support of our upcoming 2026 Conference.
With gratitude to the Diocese of Tucson for their partnership, hospitality, and support of our Cathedral Mass and cemetery tour.
Cemetery Tour Transportation Sponsor
Conference Swag Bag
Name Badges & Lanyards
Desert Nights Reception Hosted Bar
Thursday Morning Prayer Card Sponsor
Tuesday Biosphere 2 Sponsor
Photo booth Sponsor
Tuesday Coffee Break Sponsor
2026 Attending (Arch)Dioceses/Cemeteries/Funeral Homes
Gardens of Gethsemani
Archdiocese of Vancouver
Catholic Cemeteries of Chicago Central Office
Archdiocese of Chicago
Catholic Cemeteries Conference
Archdiocese of Chicago
Catholic Cemeteries
Archdiocese of Omaha
Holy Cross Cemetery and Mausoleum
Diocese of San Diego
Catholic Cemeteries
Diocese of Monterey
Catholic Cemeteries
Diocese of Newark
Catholic Cemeteries
Archdiocese of Los Angeles
Catholic Cemetery
Diocese of Stockton
Diocese of Tucson Catholic Cemeteries
Diocese of Tucson
Mt. Calvary & Gethsemani Catholic Funeral Services
Archdiocese of Portland in Oregon
Our Lady Queen of Peace Catholic Cemetery
Diocese of San Bernardino
Catholic Cemeteries & Mortuaries
Diocese of Phoenix