When we pray for the dead at our eucharistic celebrations, for whom are we praying?
November, the month of All Souls, is dedicated to praying for the dead in a more focused and intentional manner. Catholics believe that praying for those who have died expresses our continual care and concern for those no longer with us. Every Eucharist celebration includes a remembrance of those who have died. The various eucharistic prayers articulate that remembrance differently. At times we pray simply for “those who have died,” while at other times for “those who have died and gone before us marked with the sign of faith.” We pray that “these and all who sleep in Christ find in your presence light, happiness and peace.” At other times we pray for “our brothers and sisters who have gone to their rest in the hope of rising again” as we ask God to “bring them and all the departed into the light of your presence.” We also pray for “all the dead whose faith is known to you alone.”
We do not know how people die in relationship with God. Only God knows. But we firmly believe in God’s abundant mercy, grace and love. So, we pray that God’s limitless mercy and love shine richly and abundantly upon all who have died.
©2009 Liturgical Publications Inc, New Berlin, WI 53151
Used with permission
