Enjoyed a nice stroll today on my first visit to Calvary Cemetery here in Seattle. Praying a rosary while remembering the dead is an honored tradition of our Catholic heritage. I always find inspiration visiting the graves of bishops, priests, religious and the many members of the faithful who by their faith and witness of life built the local church.
I prayed especially for the many thousands who have recently died, somewhat if not totally alone, and were laid to rest in solitude due to the coronavirus. Especially close in spirit in prayer are those who’s grieving has been so interrupted by the inability to gather for a Mass or any other means of celebrating the life of their loved ones.
And of course, for all who grieve the loss of a loved one this day:
To you, O Lord, we commend the souls of your servants N.:
in the sight of this world they are now dead;
in your sight may they live for ever.
Forgive whatever sins they committed
through human weakness
and in your goodness grant them everlasting peace.
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
Amen.
Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord,
and let perpetual light shine upon them.
Amen.
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