Oasis of peace for attendees at Mass of Consolation

The Parish of St Charles Borromeo, Tunapuna welcomed bereaved families to their annual Mass of Consolation on the evening of November 30.

This special time of reverence and healing was held at the close of the month dedicated to the holy souls and the cusp of the Advent season. At this time for many, the loss of a loved one seems more vivid generating melancholy.

Dedicated team members of the Ministry of Consolation (MoC) smartly attired in green were on hand to welcome everyone. The quietly spectacular décor created an oasis of peace that was both welcoming and heart-warming.

After chief celebrant, Msgr Esau Joseph, ably assisted by Deacon Terrence Caesar extended a hearty welcome to those gathered, a spirited time of praise and worship ensued.

During his homily, Msgr Joseph acknowledged the role of the MoC in supporting those who experience loss. He spoke about the ancient practice of remembering the souls of the faithful departed and highlighted the Feast of St Andrew the Apostle and his ready response to the invitation to follow Jesus.

Monsignor quoted Jesus’ “I am the Resurrection and the life”, a reminder that Jesus is with us in life and in death. He acknowledged the sad reality of the sense of loss but reminded that Jesus also taught, those who mourn shall be comforted, they shall be consoled, and we hold on to the promises made by Jesus.

Speaking about St Andrew’s persecution, Msgr Joseph said that our journey includes areas of sorrow and sadness and implored all to accept their cross every day and follow Jesus.

He pointed out that through Jesus the cross is the victory of life, the sign of life over death, of light over darkness and goodness over evil. He emphasised that those were among the things being celebrated and God is always a God of the living.

Monsignor also spoke about being able to let go, let God be God. He reiterated that what has happened to our loved ones and what will happen to us is part of God’s divine plan. God is the one who gave us life and He has the right to call us back to Him.

He explained the symbol of the beautiful votive lights on the altar and the hope of the Advent season and reiterated that through water and the Holy Spirit “you are a child of the Resurrection and one day you will see your loved one again”.

Following the Liturgy of the Word, the Liturgy of the Eucharist progressed with heightened reverence and a sense of oneness.

Contributing to this deep spirit-filled atmosphere was the healing meditation by Msgr Joseph, the video presentation that displayed pictures/funeral programmes of loved ones and the procession of lights which were released into beautifully decorated basins of water symbolic of releasing the light of the loved one back to the Giver of Life.

The Music Ministry led by Cheryl Brizan truly enhanced the worship experience as well as the rich renditions by Mathison Thomas, and Philip Okafor and family.

Expressions of thanks were conveyed by MoC Team Leader, Barbara Wafe, to all the persons who contributed to the 2023 Mass of Consolation. The Team is encouraged by the positive feedback and expressions of commendations and give the glory to God Almighty.

– Manuelita Gomez -Thomas