January 2008

Dear Parishioner,

Scripture tells us that when Sarah, the wife of Abraham, had died in the land of Canaan, her husband performed the customary mourning rites for her. Then he addressed the people in these words: "Although I am a resident alien among you, sell me from your holdings a piece of property for a burial ground, that I may bury my dead wife" (Genesis 23:4).

Abraham wanted a permanent burial site as a personal possession, a sacred spot. Abraham himself was buried in that family plot, as was their son, Isaac. It would appear that it is inherent in us to derive comfort from the thought of family members being together even in death.

The fact that the mortal remains of our loved ones have been brought to our cemeteries for burial with other members of our families is evidence of the belief that death does not break family ties. This desire to be buried with close relatives indicates the strong belief that there is a spiritual fellowship with the dead as well as with the living.

Our faith teaches us that the dead are not lost to us. Through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, they have passed into a world where life is changed, not ended. They are secure from every earthly trial and pain.

In The Credo of the People of God, Pope Paul VI wrote: "We believe that the multitude of those gathered around Jesus and Mary in Paradise forms the Church of Heaven, where they also, in different degrees, are associated with the holy angels in the divine rule exercised by Christ in glory, interceding for us and helping our weakness by their brotherly and sisterly care."

Death is not the end, but the beginning of a new and better life. Let us show our abiding love for our dead by remembering them in our prayers. Do not hesitate to ask your deceased loved ones to intercede for you before God. For "love is indestructible; its holy flame forever burns; from heaven it came, to heaven returns."

May all of the faithful departed rest in peace and may we take comfort in knowing this.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Bishop of Cleveland