Spirited Times - November 2007

We believe, remember all souls

By MARK T. HOSKE
 
On All Soul's Day we remember as we believe. Prayers and accompanying traditions seek to commend the souls of our departed into the presence of God, and offer comfort to those here among us.

In part, the prayer of commendation says, “Lord, Jesus, you welcome into your Kingdom all those who do your Father's will, and say to them, ‘Come to me, all you who labor and are overburdened, and I will give  you rest.’ We pray now for our loved ones, family and friends, who have gone before us marked with the sign of faith.... May their souls and the souls of all the departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.”

Fr. Bill Tkachuk, pastor, gave an All Soul’s day homily in Spanish, reminding us, in part, that we receive comfort because as we remember, we give our hearts over to what we believe.

Deacon Luis Trevino added his reflections in English, saying, in part, that a friend recently asked about the Day of the Dead traditions of his youth. "So people from your region of Mexico really take food to the cemetery today for your ancestors who have passed away?"

“Yes,” Luis said, “just like your people bring flowers to the cemetery.”

"Yeh, but when do your dearly departed eat the food?"

Luis replied, “The same time that your loved ones smell the flowers.”

In offering each other comfort and laughter, the resulting smiles help our tears fall away a little faster.

We ask God that the souls of all the departed enjoy the “fullness of peace and joy with your Son and the Holy Spirit for ever and ever. Amen.” See photos online with this posted issue of the Spirited Times at www.churchoftheholyspirit.org.

 
Remembrance table
 
Writing and reading names, putting out photos, lighting candles, cooking favorite foods and sweets, and flowers are among many traditions of remembrance for those who have gone before us.