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Following is a Theological Reflection Regarding the Pastoral Letter of The Most Rev. Robert C. Morlino on the Practice of the Commemoration of the Departed In the Sacred Liturgy of the Church (25 February 2011).
The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass is the re-presentation of the Sacrifice of Christ on the Cross for the forgiveness of our sins, so that we may be found worthy of the Eternal Life prepared for us. This is the unwavering doctrine of the Catholic Church, and it only follows that the Funeral Mass, given the circumstances of its celebration, carries with it a uniquely intense focus on the mystery of God’s endless Mercy.
The Funeral Mass celebrates the mystery of the Divine Mercy of God, infinitely Just and infinitely Merciful. The greatest act of charity that can be given to Catholics who pass from this life, within the confines of the Church, is the offering of the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. It is the ultimate supplication of mercy to Almighty God for the soul of one who has departed from our midst. It only follows in reason that everything about the offering of this Most Precious Sacrifice must be in accord with this petition of His Mercy.
| Pastoral Letter |
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| Click here to read Bishop Robert C. Morlino’s Pastoral Letter regarding the Practice of the Commemoration of the Departed in the Sacred Liturgy of the Church (PDF) | |
The Church urges the maximum participation of the faithful in the Holy Mass, which unmistakably calls for their uniting themselves with the Sacrifice being offered on the Altar for the deceased person. It is to the greater benefit of the faithful to be able to do so with undistracted attention and utmost focus. Anything, therefore, that distracts from this focus is a grievance to those present as well as a grave injustice toward the deceased for whom the Mass, Mystery of God’s Mercy, is being offered.