KCP - Catholic Diocese of Broome

The experience of a death in the family or the tragic loss of a close friend can often be the cause of huge anguish for us. If the person who has died is young or if the death is unexpected then the feeling of sorrow can be overwhelming at times. Although sorrow and sadness are natural reactions to the advent of death, being able to cope with the loss is a large part of the consolation of faith. Our faith bestows hope in the face of a situation which otherwise may be a crushing blow to us spiritually, psychologically or physically.
The Holy Father's retreat preacher, Father Raniero Cantalamissa, has more than once made a powerful argument for the use of the inevitability of death as a preacher or teacher to a generation and a culture absorbed by materialism. This age of consumerism is charmed by economic prosperity and the possibilities of possessions as though happiness can be found in entertainment and joy in the acquisition of goods. To engage people with the idea of the inevitability of death may be to open to them not only the good news of eternal life but also it may afford them the opportunity to experience a deep and lasting joy that gives meaning to life on earth now. This, they may come to know, is a gift to be savoured and one to be thankful for when life as we presently know it is extinguished.
Not every person has the chance to be ready for death. For many of us death will come "as a thief in the night". In some instances death can be violent and shocking. Being in a state of readiness is a challenge the gospel lays before us in a variety of instances.
For those advanced in years or for those suffering a serious illness, it is useful to strive for readiness in a positive and deliberate manner. Happily, the gift of faith can make the event of death a peace filled passing for those left behind. And a faith-filled family can assist someone to die in a state of preparedness and acceptance, knowing they will enter a new life at peace with God. Being confident in a destination of fulfilment is far more satisfying and heartening than an aimless disappearance from the confines of space and time.
For priests active in parish work, the experience of helping someone to be right for death brings their ministry into sharp focus. To help someone through the assistance of the sacraments and the power of prayer is to accompany them along the road to readiness. So often it has been in this moment that I have learned most of what beauty there is in faith and what consolation there is in belief in Christ whose resurrection destroyed death and restored life. It is then that I have echoed in my heart the sentiment of the Prophet Hosea "death where is thy sting?". In a Christian view of life, Christ leads us "out of darkness into his own wonderful light".
So it is we pray in earnest: Eternal life grant unto them, O Lord, and let your perpetual light shine upon them.
Amen