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I have been particularly struck this week by an article I read in the Pastoral Renewal Exchange which is compiled by a priest whose editorial this week was outstanding. Its theme was prayer and the importance of prayer. In his article he considered why we pray for those who have died and what difference it makes. He came to the conclusion that when we pray for someone who has died then in God’s presence we continue to love that person and allow them to continue to love us.
What difference it makes to them we leave in the mystery of God but it does have a very positive effect on us. He then develops his thoughts as regards praying for other people and the difference that this can make. Having led a funeral service today and preparing for the annual Mass of Remembrance at our local Catholic cemetery I find this explanation of the importance of our prayers for the dead very useful pastorally.
People can understand this image and I believe many find it very helpful so I share it with you in the hope that it will give you some deeper understanding of one very good reason why we pray for the dead. It has certainly given me a fresh understanding and a new sense of purpose in my prayers for those who have gone before us.
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Holy Saviour RC Church - Nelson