BAPTISTINE PEACE AND SOCIAL JUSTICE Bulletin January 2017 Focus: Corporal Works of Mercy: RESPECTING LIFE THROUGH BURYING THE DEAD Scripture: “Give graciously to all the living and withhold not kindness from the dead” Sir. 7:33 Reflection: This 7th Corporal Work of Mercy is inspired by the Old Testament figure Tobit, who buried the dead at the risk of his own life. This work of mercy challenges us to reflect on the Christian understanding of earthly death. We read in the Catechism “The bodies of the dead most be treated with respect and charity in faith and hope of the Resurrection. The burial of the dead honors the children of God, who are temples of the Holy Spirit (ccc 2300). It is our calling to mourn and pray for the dead, to entrust them to God and to comfort their loved ones. The causes of death should not be an issue, simply offer the one who has passed to God and continue to remember them in prayer. Our Catholic funeral rites speak of the pain of loss, faith in the Resurrection, the hope of eternal life mingled with prayers that unite us to the death and Resurrection of Christ. Action:  Joining together in actions that carry kindness and comfort for the sorrowing by sharing time for reminiscing.  Offer Masses for the repose of the souls who have passed over to glory  Support organizations which care for the dying  Some parishes provide meals for the mourners after the funeral mass and or service, help to do this kindness  Attend funeral or wake services, your presence can mean so much to those who are mourning. Petition to be prayed: (Since we already pray daily for our deceased Sisters, let us also add prayers for the souls of our deceased relatives, benefactors and those who have no one to pray for them.) Committee Members: Sr. Angelita, Sr. Elsa, Sr. Eliza Marie, Sr. Madeleine, Sr. Mary Agnes, Sr. Mary Cecile, Sr. Vitalina (Srs. Claudette Marie and Frederick Mary– Council) Committee email: csjbpeacejustice@gmail.com