November is traditionally a time where we remember our loved ones who have passed away. We remember them by visiting their graves, lighting candles for them. We pray for them and offer masses for them. We also remember those in our communities who have died; Pastors, priests, deacons, teachers, people in our parishes.

We also remember those who have given their lives to defend their countries and the world, in war and in peace time.

Sharing in the communion of saints demands that we pray for everyone. This is a great means of spreading the fires of love to others, whether in this world or in purgatory. Prayers for the dead at a cemetery carry special graces.

This shows others and us, that we believe in eternal life, that the soul continues to live after the body dies. At the end of time, the soul and a new resurrected body rejoin and are presented to God.

As Vincentians we need to remember that those we help, whom we call the poor, experience grief and mourning much like we do. Their pain may be greater because they may not have the financial resources to bury their dead relatives in the way they want. Often the bread winner may die and the income that came before is gone. We see “Go fund me” projects to gather funds. We sometimes see government providing funding for basic funeral services.

If we encounter this in our home visits, tell them of grief support and financial assistance available to them. Offer your condolences. Offer them your prayers. Offer them your time to just listen to their stories.

And don’t forget that your fellow Vincentians may also have lost a loved one recently. Perhaps even one of your own members has passed away recently. If so gather your members together and pray the short memorial service for them from the SSVP Rule. Honour them in some way for their service to the poor.

“Lord, we pray for the Vincentians who spent their lives serving your poor and proclaiming your greatness. We thank you for allowing them to be in our lives and we thank you for giving us life through the death and resurrection of Jesus.” (From SSVP memorial service for deceased members).