Have you spent much time reflecting upon the relationship between the rituals we use on Ash Wednesday and the way we pray on All Souls Day? What is the connection?
One of the challenging aspects I see in today's society regarding funerals is the loss of a need to pray for the loved one who has died. There is a leaning toward wanting beautiful eulogies as opposed to fervent prayers for the deceased. Even at funeral vigils, if a kneeler is present near the casket, it seldom gets used. There seems to be a tendency to want to canonize almost everyone upon their death. I think it would behoove us to reflect upon the practice of praying for the deceased.
I want to make a simple request. When I die, please pray fervently for me, asking God for His abundant mercy. I want to enter through the door of God's mercy rather than the door of God's justice.
May the souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen.
One of the challenging aspects I see in today's society regarding funerals is the loss of a need to pray for the loved one who has died. There is a leaning toward wanting beautiful eulogies as opposed to fervent prayers for the deceased. Even at funeral vigils, if a kneeler is present near the casket, it seldom gets used. There seems to be a tendency to want to canonize almost everyone upon their death. I think it would behoove us to reflect upon the practice of praying for the deceased.
I want to make a simple request. When I die, please pray fervently for me, asking God for His abundant mercy. I want to enter through the door of God's mercy rather than the door of God's justice.
May the souls of all the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen.
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