An individual may ask a priest to offer a Mass for several reasons: for example, in thanksgiving, for the intentions of another person (such as a birthday, an anniversary, or for someone who is ill or in distress, or as is most common, for the repose of the soul of someone who has died. One must never forget the infinite graces that flow from the Sacrifice of the Mass which benefit one’s soul. Please keep in mind that the tradition of offering Masses for others, particularly the dead, originates in the very early Church. Inscriptions discovered on tombs in Roman catacombs of the 2nd century evidence this practice. St. Cyril of Jerusalem (d.386), in one of his many catechetical discourses, explained how at Mass both the living and dead are remembered, and how the Eucharistic Sacrifice of our Lord is of benefit to sinners, living and dead. St. Ambrose (d.397) preached, “We have loved them during life; let us not abandon them in death, until we have conducted them by our prayers into the house of the Lord.” When we face the death of someone, even a person who is not Catholic, to have a Mass offered for the repose of their soul and to offer our prayers are more beneficial and comforting than any sympathy card or bouquet of flowers. To have Mass offered on the occasion of a birthday, anniversary or special need is appropriate, beneficial and much appreciated.
Fr. William Saunders
Printed in July 14, 2019 bulletin
If you would like to have a mass offered for someone call the Parish Office.