Today’s Gospel speaks of the Resurrection – the core of our Christian faith. The Resurrection ushers in a completely new kind of existence. When we say someone has died or “Gone”, the obvious next question has to be “Where to?”

Below is part of a poem from John O’Donohue which I think beautifully seeks to comfort us when someone “goes”, or when we ourselves face our own mortality.

I pray that you will have the blessing of being consoled at your passing.
May you know that in your soul there is no need to be afraid.
When the time comes, may you be given every blessing and shelter you need.
May there be a beautiful welcome for you in the home that you are going to.
You are not going anywhere strange.
You are going back to the home you never left.
May you have a wonderful urgency to live your life to the full.
May you live compassionately and creatively and transfigure everything for the positive and glorious.
May you be peaceful and happy in the presence of those who really care for you.
May your going be sheltered and your welcome assured.
And may your soul smile in the embrace of your God.

Fr. Tom

 

Rev Fr Tom Stevens