The ritual of a body blessing can bring comfort to those experiencing loss
Golden, my 97-year-old parishioner, was ready to die. She invited me for a visit last summer to explain her rationale. Then shared many memories of her long life. She concluded, “I have done all I came to do, John. It’s time.” Tears rolled down my cheeks as I wondered if she was asking me for permission.
Her family and a few close friends gathered around her chair. She sat like an honoured guest at a party. People took turns sharing stories and memories. There was both laughter and tears. When the responses stopped, I moved my hand close to her heart and said, “Golden had a huge heart, what did you love about her heart?” Her grandson spoke first, “I never heard a judgmental word from her mouth. She was compassionate and kind to everyone.” You could hear sniffles as those in the room nodded in affirmation.“Mom was a quilter. We each have something she made us.” There was stillness, then: “Mom’s hands made the best apple salad ever.
It was quiet for a moment and then Golden turned to me and said, “I know what my job is when I get to the other side.”
Philippines Latest News, Philippines Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
1 person seriously injured in Scarborough shootingThe shooting occurred in the area of Pharmacy Avenue and Dolphin Drive, north of Danforth Avenue, shortly after 5 p.m.
Read more »
Man seriously injured in Scarborough highrise shooting; 2 suspects soughtToronto police are searching for two suspects after a 22-year-old man was shot in a highrise in Scarborough on Wednesday afternoon.
Read more »
Two arrested after off-duty police officer helps stop theft in progress at Niagara Falls WalmartAn off-duty Niagara Region police officer helped store security guards subdue two suspects, one armed with a knife, after an attempted robbery at a Walmart in Niagara Falls on Wednesday.
Read more »