In God’s Loving Embrace

Homily: The Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed 

2 November 2021 

Today, the commemoration of All Souls, we pray for all our departed loved ones.  In a special manner, we also pray for many people who have lost loved ones so suddenly during this pandemic. We remember those who had no chance to receive the sacraments before passing on to the next life. A friend tearfully recounted to me losing her husband recently to COVID 19. In her pain, she wanted to hear from me an assurance that her husband is all right in the next life despite not having had the Sacrament of the Sick before dying.  She is but one of many grieving people who continue to struggle with this question. Don’t you wonder what happens to those whose lives end abruptly leaving unfinished business such as broken relationships, wrongs never quite righted, conversations never completed? 

The Book of Wisdom sheds light and brings calm to all those whose hearts are disturbed and unsettled. “The souls of the just are in the hand of God, and no torment shall touch them.” The passage presents a very consoling image that our beloved dead are safe and at peace in the embrace of the Almighty God. In the face of the untimely death of many of our loved ones these days, our faith assures us and comforts us that our loving God gives grace and mercy to those who have turned to Him; those who have uttered His name in faith, in hope. 

In the Second Reading, St. Paul’s letter to the Romans encourages us: “Are you unaware that we who were baptised into Christ Jesus were baptised into his death? If, then, we have died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him.” St. Paul reminds us of our fellowship with Christ our Saviour through our baptism. If we become followers of Christ in this life, then after our death we shall continue to live with Him in eternal life. It is for this reason that Holy Water is sprinkled as part of the funeral rite — to remind us of the consequence of our baptism. 

Finally, the gospel reading from St. John quotes the consoling words of Jesus. He says that the will of God is that everyone who sees and believes in Him is promised eternal life. He will raise everyone up on the last day to live with Him forever. Jesus is telling us that God the Father does not want to lose anyone of us who have been entrusted in His Son’s care. Thus, while we journey on this earthly pilgrimage Jesus is already taking good care of us and leading us to eternal life. Nothing is lost. In Jesus, all who open themselves to God’s saving grace are “saved” and they are brought into greater glory. 

As we remember family members and good friends who have gone before us, let us also say a special prayer for those who may not have anyone to remember them. It is a very doable act of mercy on our part. May we all be comforted that our Faithful Departed are in God’s loving hands.  May we be consoled and strengthened by God’s promise until we are fully reunited with Him and those whom we love.