The faithful are reminded to bring the urns of their departed loved ones at the Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception (Manila Cathedral) in Intramuros, Manila for a special blessing until November 8.
The blessing of the urns of the cremated departed started last October 4 and every Sunday thereof until November 8. The blessing is being done in response to the pastoral instruction, “One with our Beloved Dead” of Manila Archdiocese Apostolic Administrator Bishop Broderick S. Pabillo for this year’s observance of All Saints Day and All Souls Day.
“From October 4 to November 8, in all our Sunday Masses, we will be having the Rite of Blessing of Cremated Remains. The family may bring the urn and a picture of their beloved dead, and we will celebrate a worthy liturgical blessing for them. This is in response to the call of Bishop Broderick Pabillo to make our churches welcome places of prayer and consolation especially for families who lost a loved one in this time of pandemic,” the Manila Cathedral said.
The urns with the picture of the departed are blessed after every mass.
Additional masses for the departed are held in parishes under the jurisdiction of the Archdiocese of Manila with the temporary closure of cemeteries, memorial parks, and columbaries from October 29 to November 4. The move aims to prevent crowds in cemeteries which may cause the further spread of COVID-19. The faithful are instead encouraged to visit their loved ones on other days or to just honor their memory by praying for them at home.
The Archdiocese of Manila has released a prayer for the departed that can be recited by every family at home.