Death is the inevitable mystery; it will come to us all of us as it did to our Lord and Savior. Death is not a punishment nor is it the end of life, only of life as we know it. As Christians, we are able to affirm with hope that we are always dying and yet always living. No matter how many years we live or how happy our lives may be, we are never totally fulfilled — we all die with regrets, plans and desires unmet. As Christians we affirm that our ultimate fulfillment, which is union with God and one another, cannot be totally achieved in this life. We affirm that death does not control the life of the Christian, only God does.

When death occurs, we are forced to make difficult decisions at a time when it is most difficult to make them. To make this time less confusing and to ensure that your wishes be known, it is important to discuss the issues of serious illness and death with family and friends.

To help those who will make arrangements and be responsible, you are encouraged to fill out the forms in a booklet provided by St. Thomas’ Episcopal Church and tell someone where you will be keeping the information. St. Thomas’ Episcopal Church will be happy to keep a copy of your plans in the church files.

Questions arising upon the death of a loved one often heighten our awareness of the many decisions that may be necessary at the time of our own eventual serious illness or death. Although many people are reluctant to talk about death and funeral plans, it is important to discuss these things with family and friends.

Our Assurance as Christians is that nothing, not even death,
Shall separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Amen BCPp.862

Please inquire about the booklet at St. Thomas’ Parish Office.