Remembering

This week we are in the midst to remembering and celebrating the lives of two of our sisters who have been reborn into eternal life.  They have left us in their bodies, but they are still present among us.  The legacy of their ministry, their sisterhood with us, their uniqueness, and companionship will be with us until the end of time.

When I entered the Congregation nearly 10 years ago and experienced my first wake, I was profoundly moved.  I still am - even after having been present for the wakes of many sisters. 

We begin our ceremony processing with lighted candles, singing hymns.  After everyone has arrived in our prayer space, one of the sisters proclaims the sister’s obituary usually employing a symbol pertinent to the season and the sister’s life.  During the evening prayer service, after psalms and a reading that speak of the sister’s life, a sister who knows her well will deliver a reflection about her life.  Then everyone, including the sister’s family, is invited to share stories of their relationship with the sister.  As a newer member who did not know sister in her youth, I find this profoundly inspiring. 

I was sitting next to one of our wisdom sisters during Monday night’s wake service.  She turned to me and said, “We do this well!”  I agreed. We remember, pray, and celebrate together well indeed.

How do you remember your loved ones?

Are you called to remember, pray, and celebrate with us?

Anne Sur, OP

East Dubuque, Iowa