An Easter Liturgy

The liturgy for the dead is an Easter liturgy.

It finds all its meaning in the resurrection.

Because Jesus was raised from the dead,

we, too, shall be raised.

The liturgy, therefore, is characterized by joy,

in the certainty that

"neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities,

nor things present, nor things to come,

nor powers, nor height, nor depth,

nor anything else in all creation,

will be able to separate us

from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord."

This joy, however, does not make human grief unchristian.

The very love we have for each other in Christ

brings deep sorrow when we are parted by death.

Jesus himself wept at the grave of his friend.

So, while we rejoice that one we love

has entered into the nearer presence of our Lord,

we sorrow in sympathy with those who mourn.

My grandmother died peacefully this morning just two months shy of turning 90.  She woke up, got dressed, ate breakfast.  She asked to be returned to her room because she needed to rest.  Then she died in her sleep peacefully and easily.  And that gives us all great comfort.

My Granny was a hardworking, sacrificial woman with a quick wit.  She was steadfast, loving, and always had great hair.  She loved and raised my mom and aunt to be incredible women.  And she has 4 awesome grandchildren, especially me, and 6 beautiful great grandchildren. :-)  Eloise Marie, her first great grandchild being her namesake.  We all love her very much and will miss her dearly.

The above is a description taken from the Book of Common Prayer, the book the Episcopal and Anglican churches use for services.  I had never read it until it was printed in my dear friend Tom's funeral bulletin this past March.  This was printed on the back of the bulletin.  I thought it was so moving and beautiful and true.  So, I share it with you.

We love you Granny!  Thank you for all you have done for us.  Love, all of us.