Bury the Dead – Corporal Work of Mercy
Funerals give us the opportunity to grieve and show others support during difficult times. Through our prayers and actions during these times we show our respect for life, which is always a gift from God, and a comfort to those who mourn. USCCB
Pray for the Living and the Dead – Spiritual Work of Mercy
Prayer is one of the most powerful ways we can support others. Joining together in prayer for the living and the dead entrusts us all into God’s care. USCCB
Comfort the Sorrowful – Spiritual Work of Mercy
Be open to listening and comforting to those who are dealing with grief. Even if we aren’t sure of the right words to say, our presence can make a difference. USCCB
Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted. Mt 5:4
Inspired by sacred Scripture and the Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy, the purpose of No One is Buried Alone is to pray and be present for those who have died and for those who mourn them at the time of burial. Ministry members and other parishioners attend burial services for indigent people organized by the Lewis and Clark County Coroner’s Office which are scheduled annually and the Longest Night Service for homeless people who have died in Helena which is organized by the YWCA on the night of the winter solstice, Dec. 21, 2022. Watch the December bulletins for time and location details. We also support our parish tradition of attending funerals at our parish to offer prayers and the support of the parish community even if we don’t know the person who died. All of these people are remembered each year at our Mass of Remembrance and Hope and at masses throughout the month of November. This year we are praying by name for:
Robert Bradford Mary McDonald William Sherrod
David Otis David Fontenot Vicki Knox
Sarah Ann Diann McFarland Judy Hubbard
Roger Crandell Kenneth Hamlin
Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace. Amen.
At these services many of us have experienced the presence of God as a powerful outpouring of grace, mercy, and the spirit of divine and human love. It is sacred time in a sacred space. We have experienced the bonds of unity we share as people created and loved by God. We also appreciate the healing power of community as we connect with the deceased’s family and friends whenever that is possible.
Whatsoever you do for the least of my people, that you do onto me. Mt 25:4
