Inside ML

One of the ritual treasures of the Catholic tradition is found in the Order of Christian Funerals. As odd as this may seem initially, on reflection it makes perfect sense that the ritual that contains within it the entire circle of Christian life, from baptism into new life through rebirth into eternal life, would be rich in imagery. Unfortunately, not all of the riches to be found in the OCF are mined, nor are all of the rituals employed. Though the funeral Mass and rite of committal are familiar to most, many have never experienced any of the other rites and prayers of vigil. Sadly, some have never prayed anything other than a rosary at a vigil. With all the depth of prayer and ritual available, perhaps one of the biggest understatements in any ritual document may be found in the General Introduction to the Order of Christian Funerals: 

At the death of a Christian, whose life of faith was begun in the waters of baptism and strengthened at the eucharistic table, the Church intercedes on behalf of the deceased because of its confident belief that death is not the end nor does it break the bonds forged in life. The Church also ministers to the sorrowing and consoles them in the funeral rites with the comforting word of God and the sacrament of the eucharist (4). 

This in fact is the work of a lifetime, and we all have a part to play. In this issue of ML, this work is approached from various perspectives. J. Philip Horrigan offers a creative look at vesture beyond that of priest presider. Deanna Light explores the challenges for music ministers beyond the rites of the funeral liturgy. Recognizing the demands unique to the preparation of each funeral liturgy, Paul A. Tate shares insights on the different liturgies contained within the OCF. Also in this issue, Anne Louise Bannon focuses on ministers of the word with her feature on oral interpretation, and “Music Technology Resource Guide,” ML’s feature on sound technology, provides a provocative answer to an old question. 

As we learn together how to pray together, to keep vigil together, and to trust with greater joy-filled hope in the promise of the resurrection together, we will become better able not only to celebrate the end of earthly life well but to celebrate each moment of living well. When we do that, when we live each moment in the context of the paschal mystery, we will become a people who sing “Alleluia” even at our own grave. ML

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