The Catholic Church Never Leaves its Members Spiritually in Sickness and Even in Death





In the final stages of life, when elderly or unwell individuals can no longer attend church activities as they once did, the Church ensures they are not forgotten. Priests visit them regularly to pray and administer sacraments like the Anointing of the Sick and the Eucharist. The Church never abandon such people, knowing how devoted they were in the past.
CCC 1524, In addition to the Anointing of the Sick, the Church offers those who are about to leave this life the Eucharist as Viaticum. Communion in the Body and Blood of Christ received at this moment of "passing over" to the Father, has particular significance and importance.
Even after death, the Church supports its members by organizing funeral/requiem masses and continue praying for their souls; which is somehow related to after-sale services businesses render to customers after purchasing their products and/or services.
The church prays for departed souls in every mass (the highest prayer in the Catholic church), grace after meal, and many other prayers; with the hope that they may rest in peace.
The Church's belief in the communion of saints is demonstrated in her teaching that through the mercy of God; prayers, and some other good works of the church militant (the living) can assist the church's suffering (the souls in purgatory) by reducing their time in purgatory.
Also, Purgatorial society was founded basically to assist souls reach heaven through prayers and other spiritual services they render. When they finally reach heaven, they join the church triumphant (those in heaven) and also offer up prayers for the church militant and church suffering.
The church in her wisdom also has a very special day set aside for praying for the dead. It is called Feast of All Souls, November 2nd of every year. The entire month of November is dedicated to praying for all the faithful departed, people are also encouraged to carry out works of mercy for their sake.
CCC 1030, All who die in God's grace and friendship, but still imperfectly purified, are indeed assured of their eternal salvation; but after death, they undergo purification, to achieve the holiness necessary to enter the joy of heaven.
CCC 1031, The Church gives the name Purgatory to this final purification of the elect, which is entirely different from the punishment of the damned. The Church formulated her doctrine of faith in Purgatory, especially at the Councils of Florence and Trent. The tradition of the Church, by reference to certain texts of Scripture, speaks of a cleansing fire.
The Church never forgets her own whether dead or alive, that's why she is the most customer-centric entity in the world.
Like any human institution, it is also important to note that the Catholic Church's members are imperfect. The Church has faced challenges, controversies, and criticisms throughout its history. Instances of misconduct, scandals, and internal divisions have highlighted imperfections within the church throughout her existence.
Jesus however assures the Church that He is always with her, even till the end of time. Matthew 28:20.
(Please note that sometimes due to unforeseen circumstances a priest is unable to minister to a sick or dying person - on those occasions, we remember that the Church constantly prays  for all its members and that it is possible for a supernatural intervention occur)
CCC - Stands for Catechism of the Catholic Church
This is part 3 of a 3-part reflection by Catholic News World's Cosmos Ateli
SEE Part 1 : 
How the Catholic Church is the Most Customer-Centric Entity in the World - Insight
Part 2: Growing Numbers are Seeking Baptism

 https://www.catholicnewsworld.com/2024/04/growing-numbers-are-seeking-baptism-how.html

by our New Writer for Catholic News World: Cosmos Ateli, B.Sc. - Email Atelicosmos1@gmail.com
Cosmos Ateli,  is a lover of Customer Experience and a writer for Catholic News World. He has a B.Sc degree in Marketing from Delta State University, Nigeria. He is an aspiring Canon Lawyer.


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