My mother's funeral took place yesterday. I was the chief celebrant and preached. The week following her death was very difficult for me, but I was conscious of the power of prayer - not only my own - but especially the prayers of others offered both for my mother and my family and myself. I received a profound peace some days before the funeral - and my sister tells me that she also received a similar gift before the funeral. St. Therese was one of my mother's favourites and I believe we received special graces when the relics came to our diocesan cathedral which helped to prepare my mother for her final illness and death. There have been other "signs" which are more than the imaginings of bereavement. Above all, I am very conscious of being upheld by the prayers of others, and so I am posting this to thank those who so kindly prayed and had masses offered. May God continue to bless all of us with His wonderful graces.
"I am very conscious of being upheld by the prayers of others,"
ReplyDeleteit has so often been the truth for me, with my life, that other's prayers really do tangibly touch us.
I know this must be a very emotional time for you Father. I am sorry, that I am not of much use to anyone, at the moment. There is a book, written by Fr Jean Sullivan, French priest author, called "Anticipate every goodbye" It is to do with the death, of his own mother. I personally found it a very interesting study, on grief in general. It may be of some comfort to you, should you need it. I no longer have my copy, but it is still available online, I notice.
God bless you, and your family.
Here's a link Father, an overview of the book.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.gerardmhopkins.org/lectures_2003/jean_sulivan.html
Father, just to say, I am still keeping you in my prayers, and your sister.
ReplyDeletePrayers assured today, now.
ReplyDelete