Sunday forum

As the solemn requiem of All Souls’ Day on Thursday, November 2 approaches, the focus of forums on Sundays and Wednesday Mosaics will be what the Church believes about Christian death and burial—and how they shape our lives.

The resource for this series will be the Burial Rite from The Book of Common Prayer. Special attention will be paid to the six words or phrases from the Burial Rite—what is their meaning to Episcopalians and how do they unite us with all Christians?

The Rite of Christian Burial traditionally begins with an antiphon and versicle from Psalm 65 that are said or sung by the celebrating priest as they approach the altar.

“Rest eternal grant unto them, O Lord: and let light perpetual shine upon them.  (Ps. 65) Thou, O God, are praised in Zion, and unto thee shall the vow be performed in Jerusalem: thou that hearest the prayer, unto thee shall all flesh come. Rest eternal grant unto them, O Lord: and let light perpetual shine upon them.” 

At 10:30am this Sunday, October 15, Fr Peter will lead a discussion about the phrase “rest eternal” and, among other things, what it means to offer prayer for the faithful departed. All are invited.