The Archdiocese of Newark has introduced a short video highlighting the significance of the Church’s funeral rituals to help Catholics during one of the most difficult and often confusing times in life – the death of a loved one.
The six-minute video, “Many Travelers, One Journey,” weaves together the touching narrated stories of multiple individuals describing how family, friends and church community come together to pray and comfort each other, celebrate the faith and life of their loved one, and share in the three principal parts of the Catholic funeral liturgy – the vigil, funeral Mass and committal service – known as the Order of Christian Funerals.
“In times of mourning, many of us can feel lost or confused,” said the Most Rev. John J. Myers, archbishop of Newark. “The prayers and ceremonies associated with the wake, funeral Mass and committal are ways that the church shows a connection with one of its members. In baptism, we become part of the church family. That relationship is not broken even by death. As such, we celebrate these funeral rituals out of reverence for the human body, for our relationship with the deceased, and for Jesus Christ, who conquered death,” the archbishop continued. “This video walks viewers gently through the beauty of these deeply meaningful church rituals that guide and help console those in mourning.”
Produced by Catholic Cemeteries of the Archdiocese of Newark, a ministry of the Archdiocese, and featuring actual Archdiocesan clergy and parishioners, “Many Travelers, One Journey” accompanies a comprehensive planning guide, Continuing the Journey, Preparing a Catholic Funeral, to assist Catholics during their time of loss or when pre-planning. It includes information on coping with the death of a loved one, ministry resources at a time of loss, Scripture readings for funerals, practical preparations and more.
“Many Travelers, One Journey” is available online at www.rcancem.org/ocf. The continuing the Journey booklet can be ordered by calling 888-498-5209.
