10. Eschatology Flashcards
1
Q
What is the Paschal Candle?
A
The Paschal candle is a large candle used in church services, especially during the Easter Vigil.
It represents the Risen Christ and is used to celebrate Jesus’ resurrection.
2
Q
What is the significance of the Paschal candle in the Easter Vigil?
A
The Easter Vigil is held the night before Easter Sunday to celebrate Jesus’ resurrection.
The Paschal candle plays an important role in this service, symbolizing Christ’s victory over sin and death.
3
Q
Why does the priest trace Alpha (A) and Omega (Ω) symbols on the Paschal candle?
A
While saying a prayer, the priest traces the Alpha and Omega symbols, which are always present on the candle.
These symbols represent that Christ is eternal, as Alpha and Omega are the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet.
4
Q
Why does the priest insert five grains of incense into the Paschal candle?
A
The priest places five small holders, each containing a grain of incense, into the candle.
These grains represent the five wounds Christ received during his crucifixion.
5
Q
Why does the priest light a fire during the Easter Vigil?
A
After sunset, the priest lights a fire to symbolize the light of Christ rising from the tomb.
This represents Jesus destroying the power of sin and death through his resurrection.
6
Q
What does the priest say when lighting the Paschal candle?
A
The priest lights the candle from the fire, saying:
“May the light of Christ rising in glory dispel the darkness of our hearts and minds.”
This symbolizes Christ bringing light into the world to overcome the darkness of sin and death.
7
Q
How and why is the Paschal candle processed into the church?
A
- The priest carries the candle up to the altar during the service.
- The light from the candle is then used to light other candles held by the congregation.
This shows that all believers share in the risen glory of Christ.
8
Q
What does the Paschal candle represent in baptisms?
A
- The candle is lit at baptisms, and a smaller candle is given to the newly baptized person, lit from the Paschal candle.
- This represents the person being filled with the light of Christ.
The priest tells the parents and godparents:
“This child of yours has been enlightened by Christ. He (she) is to walk always as a child of the light.”
9
Q
What does the priest say to the parents during a Baptism that relates the the Paschal candle?
A
The priest tells the parents and godparents:
“This child of yours has been enlightened by Christ. He (she) is to walk always as a child of the light.”
10
Q
What does the Paschal candle symbolize at funerals?
A
It is lit at funerals to show that the deceased person has joined Christ in the resurrected life.
11
Q
How do the symbols on the Paschal candle reflect Christ’s sacrifice?
A
The Alpha (A) and Omega (Ω) symbols show Christ’s eternal nature.
The five grains of incense represent the five wounds of Jesus from the crucifixion.
12
Q
How is the light from the Paschal candle used in the church?
A
The Paschal candle is the main source of light at the beginning of the Easter Vigil.
It is used to light other candles in the congregation, showing how Christ’s resurrection brings light to all believers.
13
Q
How does the Paschal candle connect to the theme of resurrection?
A
The candle is central to Easter, baptisms, and funerals, reinforcing the belief in Christ’s resurrection.
It symbolizes Christ’s triumph over darkness and death, offering hope and eternal life to believers.
14
Q
What do Catholics believe about the Last Judgement?
A
Catholics believe that at the end of time, everyone will be resurrected and judged by Christ.
This judgement will confirm whether a person spends eternity in heaven or hell.
15
Q
What is The Last Judgement by Michelangelo?
A
- It is a painting by Michelangelo that depicts the event of the Last Judgement.
- It is also known as the Last (or Final) Judgement in Christian belief.
16
Q
How is Christ depicted in ‘The Last Judgement’?
A
- Christ is the central figure, emphasizing his role as the judge of all.
- His crucifixion wounds are still visible, showing that he came to glory through obedience and suffering.
- His right hand is raised, reflecting the Parable of the Sheep and the Goats, where Jesus promises the good will be on his right and the wicked on his left.
- He is raising those on his right up to heaven.
17
Q
How does ‘The Last Judgement’ illustrate resurrection?
A
People are shown rising from their graves, symbolizing the belief that all people will be raised for judgement on the last day.
18
Q
How does the painting ‘The Last Judgement’ by Michelangelo represent the concept of heaven?
A
Near Jesus, saints are holding the tools used to torture and kill them.
Despite their suffering, the saints have perfect bodies, reflecting the Catholic belief that people’s bodies will be resurrected and made perfect.
It also represents that faithfulness to God will lead to being raised to heaven.
19
Q
What does The Last Judgement say about equality before God?
A
Originally, everyone in the painting was naked except Jesus and Mary.
This was to show that, in the Last Judgement, all people are equal before God.
20
Q
How is the Book of Revelation reflected in ‘The Last Judgement’ by Michelangelo?
A
The Book of Revelation describes seven angels blowing trumpets to signal the end of the world and Christ’s judgement.
One angel holds a small book with the names of those raised to heaven, while another holds a much larger book with the names of those destined for hell.
This reflects Jesus’ teaching that no one should be complacent and assume they will be raised to heaven.
21
Q
How is hell depicted in The Last Judgement?
A
People are shown moving towards hell, displaying a sense of despair.
Hell is a place of darkness, symbolising the idea that the light of Christ cannot reach those who have rejected God.
22
Q
What message does The Last Judgement give about suffering and faith?
A
The saints, though tortured, have been resurrected in perfect form, reinforcing the belief that suffering for faith will lead to salvation.
This reflects the promise that those who stay faithful, regardless of their earthly suffering, will be rewarded in heaven.
23
Q
How does Michelangelo’s painting emphasize Jesus’ role as the final judge?
A
- Jesus is placed at the center, with a dominant presence.
- His raised hand mirrors the biblical concept of rewarding the righteous and condemning the wicked.
- He has wounds from the crucifixion, showing his authority through suffering and sacrifice.
24
Q
How does The Last Judgement warn against complacency?
A
The contrast between the small book of those going to heaven and the large book of those going to hell warns that salvation is not guaranteed.
The painting visually represents Jesus’ teaching that one must actively live a righteous life to be saved.
25
How does The Last Judgement visually separate heaven and hell?
Heaven is depicted as a place of light and perfection, where the resurrected saints have flawless bodies.
Hell is a dark and chaotic space, filled with suffering, reinforcing the Catholic idea that rejecting God leads to eternal separation from Him.
26
How did the Middle Ages' monuments reflect Catholic beliefs?
Many were decorated with skeletons and other symbols of decay.
This reflected the belief that no matter how wealthy or important a person was, they still faced death and God’s judgment like everyone else.
27
What do Catholics believe about the body after death?
Catholics believe in the resurrection of the body, where the whole person (body and soul) will be judged in God's presence.
Since the body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, it must be treated with respect, even after death.
28
What are memorials, and why are they important in Christianity?
Memorials are structures or areas built to honor and show respect for the dead.
They express various beliefs about life after death, including heaven, judgment, resurrection, and eternal life.
29
What is a tombstone, and what is its purpose?
- A tombstone is a large carved stone placed over a person's grave.
- It marks the location of the grave so that it can be treated with respect.
30
What does the inscription 'R.I.P' on a tombstone mean?
Stands for Requiescat in pace or "May (s)he rest in peace."
It is a prayer expressing hope that the person is in heaven, enjoying the peace and happiness of eternal life.
31
Why are Catholic tombstones often shaped like a cross?
- The cross indicates that the person believed in Jesus.
- It expresses the hope that the deceased will be resurrected with Jesus to eternal life.
32
Why do some Catholic tombstones feature angels?
Angels on tombstones reflect the belief that all people have a guardian angel who takes care of them during life.
The angel on the tombstone symbolizes the angel presenting the deceased to God for judgment and asking for mercy.
33
What is a monument, and why are they built?
A monument is a structure built to remember an important person or event.
Some Catholic monuments honor saints to show their importance, such as those for St. Edward the Confessor (Westminster Abbey) and St. Thomas Becket (Canterbury Cathedral).
34
How were wealthy Christians buried in the past, and what did it symbolize?
Some were buried in sarcophagi (decorated coffins) with the Chi-Rho symbol.
This showed the person's belief in Jesus and reminded others that Jesus died so everyone could experience eternal life in heaven.
35
What is a remembrance garden, and why are they significant?
A remembrance garden is an outside area where the ashes of cremated people can be kept.
Many Catholics choose cremation due to limited burial space, and their ashes are stored in a container or urn within a remembrance garden or cemetery.
36
How are remembrance gardens designed, and what is their purpose?
They are designed to be areas of peace and beauty.
This helps mourners reflect on the peace and beauty of heaven, where they hope their loved ones are present.
37
Why are remembrance gardens quiet and reflective spaces?
The quiet and reflective nature helps people mourn and find peace.
It allows them to feel close to their loved ones, as their earthly remains are at rest in the garden.
38
What is Eschatology?
- Eschatology is the study of what will happen at the end of time.
- It explores concepts such as the afterlife, resurrection, and final judgment.
39
Why is Jesus' Resurrection Important for Eschatology?
Jesus is the only person who has been able to give some idea of what happens after death.
His resurrection is central to Christian beliefs about life after death.
40
What Does Paul Teach About the Resurrected Body?
- In 1 Corinthians 15:42–44, Paul explains that a resurrected body will be different from the earthly body.
- The earthly body is perishable, weak, and dishonourable.
- The resurrected body is imperishable, powerful, and glorious.
41
What Events Will Signal the End of Time?
- Cosmic disasters such as the sun darkening and stars falling from heaven (Mark 13:24–25).
- Jesus will come to judge the whole world.
- The current world order will end, and a new one will be created.
- The Reign of God will be established.
42
How is Christian Belief About the End of Time Based on Jesus’ Resurrection?
Jesus’ resurrection taught Christians that life continues after death in the presence of God.
This belief influences how they view the afterlife and final judgment.
43
What Did Early Christians Believe About Jesus' Resurrection and the End of the World?
They thought Jesus' resurrection meant the end of the world would happen very soon.
They believed all people would be resurrected and taken into God’s presence quickly.
44
How Did Christian Views on Resurrection Change Over Time?
- When the world did not end immediately, Christians adapted their beliefs.
- They focused on living in the life of the resurrection while still alive.
- This meant following Jesus’ teachings and resisting sin.
- It helped prepare them for judgment after death.
45
How Does Paul Explain the Difference Between Earthly and Resurrected Bodies?
He compares the earthly body to a seed and the resurrected body to the plant that grows from it.
The resurrected body is different but related to the earthly body.
46
What Does John 20:19–29 Teach About the Resurrected Body?
It shows that Jesus’ resurrected body was physical but had new abilities.
He could pass through barriers but was still touchable and real.
47
How Does Paul Describe the Qualities of a Resurrected Body?
The earthly body is:
- Perishable
- Dishonourable
- Weak
The resurrected body is:
- Imperishable (lives forever)
- Glorious (perfect and sinless)
- Powerful and strong
48
How does 1 Corinthians 15:42–44 (NRSV) describe Resurrection?
"What is sown is perishable, what is raised is imperishable. It is sown in dishonour, it is raised in glory. It is sown in weakness, it is raised in power. It is sown a physical body, it is raised a spiritual body."
49
What are the Four Last Things in Christianity?
- The four last things are death, judgment, heaven, and hell.
- Christians believe that everyone will face these at the end of their life.
- Many believe that after death, they will be judged by God and sent to either heaven or hell.
- This belief encourages Christians to live good lives committed to God.
50
What is the Christian understanding of Death?
- Death is not the end but a transition to a new phase of life.
- It is not something to fear because it marks the start of eternal life without the limits of the earthly body, the soul continues to live.
- The soul is judged by God and sent to heaven or hell. Some may first go to purgatory.
51
What happens at the Final Judgment?
- The final judgment occurs at the end of time.
- At this moment, everyone will be judged by God.
- The body and soul will be reunited in a perfected form.
- Christians believe this is when God's ultimate justice will be fully revealed.
52
How does God judge people after death?
- Catholics believe that after death, every person is judged by God.
- God will consider everything a person has done in their lifetime.
- This is a moment of truth where people take responsibility for their actions. Some will judge themselves in the light of God's love.
- Because Jesus died for all, Christians believe God’s judgment will be merciful.
53
What is Heaven according to Christianity?
- Heaven is a place of eternal happiness in the presence of God.
- It is a state of being where God’s love removes all cares and worries.
- God wants everyone to join Him in heaven.
- However, God respects free will, meaning people must choose to accept God to enter.
54
How do people enter Heaven?
- People who are judged favorably by God will enter heaven.
- Entry to heaven requires a person to accept God’s love and presence.
- Choosing to follow God and live righteously increases the likelihood of going to heaven.
55
What is Hell in Christian belief?
- Hell is eternal separation from God.
- It is a state of loss and suffering caused by rejecting God.
- People in hell are aware of what they have lost.
- They exist in a state of frustration and anger at themselves.
56
Does God send people to Hell?
Christians believe God does not send people to hell.
Instead, people send themselves to hell by rejecting God.
Free will means that individuals choose whether to accept or reject God.
57
What is Purgatory and how does it relate to the Four Last Things?
- Purgatory is believed by Catholics to be a temporary state where souls are purified before entering heaven.
- It is not one of the Four Last Things but is connected to the process of judgment and salvation.
- Those in purgatory will eventually reach heaven after being cleansed.
58
How do the Four Last Things affect Christian life?
- Belief in the Four Last Things encourages Christians to live a good life.
- Knowing they will face judgment makes people more likely to follow God’s teachings.
- The hope of heaven motivates Christians to love and serve God.
- The fear of hell acts as a warning to avoid sin.
59
What role does Jesus play in Judgment and Salvation?
Jesus died so all people could be saved.
Because of His sacrifice, Christians believe God’s judgment will be merciful.
Faith in Jesus helps people attain salvation and enter heaven.
60
What is Purgatory in Catholic belief?
- Purgatory is a process of cleansing after judgement, removing the effects of sin.
- It helps a person accept the full presence of God.
- Catholics believe some souls go through purgatory before entering heaven.
61
How can prayers help those in Purgatory?
Catholics believe prayers from the living can help speed up the process of purgatory.
These prayers are meant to help the souls become fully cleansed.
62
Why do people go to Purgatory?
- People may feel ashamed of their sins in the presence of God.
- Even if God forgives them, they may need to make up for their past wrongs.
- Purgatory is a cleansing process where the effects of sin are removed.
63
How many times do Catholics believe judgement happens?
Catholics believe in two types of judgement:
1. Particular Judgement – Happens immediately after death.
2. Final Judgement – Happens at the end of time.
64
What happens during Particular Judgement?
- Occurs immediately after a person dies.
- God judges them individually based on their actions during life.
- The result is the soul going to heaven, hell, or purgatory.
65
What happens during Final Judgement?
- Happens at the end of time when Christ returns.
- Christ will judge the whole of creation.
- After this, God's Reign will be fully established, and everything will be made perfect.
- Those judged favourably by God will stay with Him forever in perfect creation.
66
What do all Christian denominations believe about the afterlife?
All Christians believe in the resurrection and heaven.
However, beliefs about purgatory and judgement differ.
67
Do all Christians believe in immediate judgement after death?
No, some Christians believe that judgement does not happen right after death.
Instead, souls wait in their graves for Christ’s second coming, where they will then be judged.
68
What happens after Final Judgement according to Catholic belief?
- God’s reign will be fully established.
- The world will be made perfect.
- Those judged favourably will remain with God forever in a perfect creation.
69
How does Catholic belief about Purgatory emphasize God's mercy?
Purgatory allows people who are not perfect but not fully rejecting God to be cleansed.
This shows God’s love and willingness to forgive even after death.
It gives people a second chance to be purified before entering heaven.
70
What is the Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus?
- The parable is found in Luke 16:19–31 in the Bible.
- It tells of a rich man who had everything in life but ignored a poor, homeless man named Lazarus at his gate.
- When they died, Lazarus went to heaven while the rich man went to hell.
- The story teaches about heaven, hell, and how actions affect the afterlife.
71
Why did the rich man (parable of the rich man and Lazarus) go to hell?
The rich man failed to show love and kindness to Lazarus.
He feasted every day but never shared his food with Lazarus.
He had the wealth and means to help others but did not.
His selfishness and neglect led to his punishment in hell.
72
What does the parable of the rich man and Lazarus teach about showing kindness?
Showing love and kindness to others leads to heaven. While not showing love, leads to hell.
The rich man ignored Lazarus’ suffering, which resulted in his own suffering in the afterlife.
73
How does wealth affect a person's actions?
Wealth can make it easier to ignore the needs of others.
- The rich man had plenty but didn’t share with Lazarus.
- Instead of using his wealth to help, he only thought of himself.
- His failure to be generous led to his suffering in hell.
74
What is hell like in the parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus?
Hell is a place of torment, suffering, and separation from God.
The rich man is shown pleading for water, saying he is ‘in agony in these flames’.
This illustrates that hell is painful, full of regret, and eternal.
75
Can people in hell see those in heaven?
Yes, in the parable, the rich man is aware of Abraham and Lazarus in heaven.
This suggests that people in hell can see the happiness of those in heaven.
This increases their suffering, knowing they cannot join them.
76
Can people move between heaven and hell?
No, in the parable, Abraham tells the rich man there is a "great chasm" between them.
A person cannot escape hell by repenting after death—their choices in life decide their afterlife.
77
What does the parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus say about repentance after death?
The parable teaches that repentance after death is not possible.
People must choose to live rightly during their lifetime.
Actions and choices determine the state in which they spend the afterlife.
78
What request does the rich man make from hell?
He asks Abraham to send Lazarus to warn his brothers.
He hopes that if someone rises from the dead, his brothers will believe and change their ways.
79
How does Abraham respond to the rich man's request, in the parable of the rich man and Lazarus?
Abraham says, ‘If they do not listen to Moses and the prophets, neither will they be convinced even if someone rises from the dead.’
This means that everything needed for salvation is already in the scriptures.
If people ignore God’s teachings, even a miracle won’t change their minds.
80
What does the parable of the rich man and Lazarus teach about faith in God?
- Having faith in God and following Jesus’ teachings leads to heaven.
- If people don’t believe in the scriptures, even seeing someone rise from the dead won’t convince them.
- Faith and action in life determine a person’s eternal destiny.
81
How does the parable of the rich man and Lazarus warn people about their choices?
- It teaches that wealth and comfort in life do not guarantee a good afterlife.
- Kindness, generosity, and faith in God are more important than riches.
- Ignoring the needs of others can lead to eternal separation from God.
- The parable urges people to live righteously and follow God’s teachings while they still can.
82
What is Cosmic Reconciliation?
Cosmic reconciliation refers to the idea that, at the end of time, the whole of creation will be brought back into harmony with God.
This process started with Jesus' death and resurrection.
Julian of Norwich had a vision of Jesus saying, "all shall be well," suggesting that all of creation will be made perfect at the end of time.
83
How did sin disrupt cosmic harmony?
- God the Father created the universe through the Son, ensuring everything was in perfect balance and harmony.
- However, sin entered the world, breaking this harmony and throwing creation out of balance.
- This led to a fractured relationship between humanity and God, which needed to be restored.
84
How did Jesus' death and resurrection begin the process of reconciliation?
As the Son of God, Jesus had the power to defeat sin and death, which had disturbed God’s perfect creation.
His death and resurrection helped to restore harmony to the world, starting the process of cosmic reconciliation.
85
What will happen at the end of time?
- The whole of creation will be fully restored and made perfect.
- At this point, the cosmos (or universe) will be fully reconciled with God.
- This final stage of restoration is what cosmic reconciliation refers to.
86
What does Colossians 1:20 say about reconciliation?
"...through him [Jesus] God was pleased to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, by making peace through the blood of his cross." (Colossians 1:20, NRSV)
This shows that Jesus’ sacrifice was essential in bringing everything back into harmony with God.
87
Who was Julian of Norwich?
- Julian of Norwich was a medieval writer and Christian mystic.
- She received visions from Jesus and recorded them in her book, Revelations of Divine Love.
- Her writings suggest a belief in cosmic reconciliation, where all creation will ultimately be restored.
88
What did Julian of Norwich ask Jesus and how did he respond?
In one vision, she asked Jesus why there is sin and hell.
Jesus responded with:
"It was necessary that there should be sin; but all shall be well, and all shall be well, and all manner of thing shall be well." (Revelations of Divine Love 32, NRSV)
89
Why did Jesus say sin was necessary, in Julian of Norwich's vision?
- Christianity teaches that sin exists because God gave humans free will.
- For people to make true choices for or against God, they must have the ability to sin.
- This aligns with the belief that free will is a key part of God’s plan.
90
What does “all shall be well” mean?
- Jesus reassures that sin will ultimately be defeated.
- At the end of time, everything will be made perfect, and the whole of creation will be brought back into harmony with God.
This is a central idea of cosmic reconciliation.
91
Why is Jesus central to cosmic reconciliation?
Jesus was both fully human and fully divine, allowing him to overcome sin and death.
His death and resurrection were the first steps in restoring the world to its intended harmony.
92
What does the Catholic Church teach about predestination to heaven or hell?
- The Church teaches that no one is predestined to go to heaven or hell.
- People’s actions during their lifetime determine what happens after death.
- They have free will to accept or reject God.
93
What does the Church teach about the timing of the end of time?
- No one knows when the end of time will happen.
- Catholics must live their lives in constant expectation that it could happen at any time.
- They should always strive to do good deeds and commit themselves to God.
94
What role did the Second Vatican Council play in shaping teachings on the end of time?
It taught that Christ will return in glory as the judge and saviour.
It reaffirmed that no one is predestined to go to heaven or hell.
It clarified that God does not send people to hell; rather, people send themselves by rejecting Him.
95
How will Christ return at the end of time?
- Christ will return in glory as the judge and saviour.
- Catholics should live in hope of His return.
- He will judge all people based on their choices and actions.
96
Why should Catholics always be preparing for the end of time?
- No one knows when it will happen.
- The Church teaches that people must constantly prepare by following Jesus’ teachings.
- Catholics should strive to live good, faithful lives at all times.
97
What does Lumen Gentium 48 say about being vigilant for the end of time?
“Since however we know not the day nor the hour, on Our Lord’s advice we must be constantly vigilant.”
It teaches that waiting for Christ’s return requires active faith and good deeds.
98
How can Catholics prepare for the end of time?
- By keeping faith in God.
- By performing good deeds that share God’s love.
- By avoiding mortal sins, which destroy a person’s relationship with God.
99
What does the Church say about keeping faith in God?
- Faith is essential for salvation.
- Rejecting God leads to hell.
- Lumen Gentium 48 states that faith helps Catholics understand their purpose and work toward salvation.
100
How do good deeds help Catholics prepare for the end of time?
- Good deeds show God’s love to others.
- They help Catholics live in accordance with Jesus’ teachings.
- They demonstrate commitment to following God’s will.
101
What are mortal sins, and why must they be avoided?
Mortal sins are serious sins like murder or adultery.
They destroy a person’s relationship with God.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church says that willful turning away from God (mortal sin) leads to hell if not repented.
102
What does Catechism of the Catholic Church 1037 say about predestination and moral sin?
'God predestines no one to go to hell; for this, a wilful turning away from God (a mortal sin) is necessary, and persistence in it until the end: (Catechism of the Catholic Church 1037)
103
What should someone do if they commit a mortal sin?
They must confess their sin and say they are truly sorry for their actions.
True repentance restores a person’s relationship with God.
104
What is the anointing of the sick?
- One of the seven sacraments.
- Given to a seriously ill person who may be facing death.
- Provides hope, strength, courage, and forgiveness.
105
What is the commendation of the dying?
- A short service for a dying person.
- Includes their last Holy Communion (Viaticum).
- Helps the person prepare for death with hope and faith.
106
Why does the priest sprinkle holy water at the start of the anointing of the sick?
Reminds the sick person of their baptism.
Symbolises cleansing and spiritual renewal.
107
Why does the priest lay hands on the sick person?
Calls down the power and strength of the Holy Spirit.
Gives peace, strength to resist sin, and courage to overcome doubt and despair.
108
What is the significance of the priest anointing the sick person with oil?
- Symbolises mercy, healing, and hope of new life.
- Can mean restoration to health or promise of eternal happiness with God.
109
Why does the sick person confess their sins (during the anointing of the sick)?
-Helps the person face the future with a clear conscience.
- Brings emotional and spiritual positivity.
110
Why is Holy Communion given to the sick person?
- Shows that Christ is present with them.
- Provides spiritual support during illness.
111
Why might a dying person hold a crucifix during the commendation of the dying?
A reminder that they are sharing in Christ’s death.
112
Why might the dying person repeat their baptismal promises?
- Reminds them of their faith in God.
- Strengthens their confidence in eternal life.
113
What is the significance of Bible readings and the Litany of the Saints during the commendation of the dying?
Reassures the person that God is with them.
The Litany of the Saints calls upon saints to pray for the dying person.
114
What does receiving the last Holy Communion (Viaticum) symbolise?
Shows that Christ is with them on their journey from death to new life.
115
What is the meaning of the final prayer for the dying person?
Words like “go forth, Christian soul… May you live in peace this day” express the hope that the person will experience eternal peace and happiness with God.
116
What is the commendation of the dying?
A short service centred around the dying person receiving their last Holy Communion, which is called Viaticum.
117
What is the purpose of a Catholic funeral?
- A funeral is a ceremony to mourn a person who has died.
- Catholic funerals reflect the hope that the deceased has been judged favorably by God.
- It expresses the belief that the deceased is now experiencing the eternal happiness of heaven.
118
What happens during the reception of the body at church, during a funeral?
- The body is taken to church in its coffin.
- At the church doors, the coffin is sprinkled with holy water.
- The coffin is placed beside the lit Paschal candle.
119
What is the meaning behind each action during the reception of the body, in a funeral?
The body being taken to church symbolizes the deceased being taken back to God.
Sprinkling with holy water is a reminder of baptism, showing that the person was baptized into Christ’s death and resurrection.
The Paschal candle represents the light of the Risen Christ shining on the deceased.
120
What is the purpose of the funeral Mass?
A priest holds a funeral Mass, often called a requiem, which means "rest" in Latin.
The Mass is centered around prayers for the deceased, asking that they may rest in God’s presence.
121
What readings are included in the funeral Mass and why?
The readings focus on Christ’s resurrection and eternal life.
John 11:25–26 is commonly read, stating, “I am the resurrection and the life… everyone who lives and believes in me will never die.”
This reflects the belief that Christ’s resurrection opened heaven for those who accept God.
122
What rituals happen before the burial or cremation?
- The coffin is sprinkled with holy water again.
- The priest waves smoke from burning incense over the coffin.
- A prayer is said for the mourners.
123
What dose each pre-burial ritual mean/symbolise?
Holy water is a reminder of baptism.
The incense symbolises prayers rising to God and acknowledges that God gave the deceased to the community before returning them to Him.
The prayers for mourners reflect the hope that they will reunite with the deceased in heaven.
124
What is said as the coffin is blessed?
The congregation sings or says:
“May the angels lead you to paradise.”
“With poor man Lazarus of old may you enjoy eternal life.”
125
What is the meaning behind these words?
“May the angels lead you to paradise.”
“With poor man Lazarus of old may you enjoy eternal life.”
The phrase expresses hope that the deceased will enter eternal life in heaven.
The reference to Lazarus comes from the Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus, which teaches about eternal reward.
126
What happens at the burial or cremation?
- The Lord’s Prayer is said.
- The coffin is sprinkled with holy water one last time.
- Prayers are offered for the deceased’s eternal happiness with God.
127
What does the burial or cremation signify?
The Lord’s Prayer reflects the belief that the deceased is a child of God.
Sprinkling with holy water reminds mourners of baptism and eternal life.
Prayers at this stage show faith that the deceased has been returned to God’s care.
128
How does a Catholic funeral reflect beliefs about the afterlife?
Rituals like sprinkling holy water and reading about Christ’s resurrection show belief in salvation.
Prayers and hymns express hope that the deceased has entered heaven.
129
What is the Catholic Church’s belief about the sanctity of life?
Catholics believe in the sanctity of life, meaning all life is holy and sacred because it is created by God.
Therefore, all life must be respected, valued, and cared for up until the moment of death.
130
What is euthanasia and why is the Catholic Church against it?
Euthanasia is defined as killing someone painlessly and with compassion to end their suffering.
The Church is against euthanasia because it believes only God has the right to take
It considers it morally unacceptable and equivalent to murder.
131
What does the Catholic Church teach about caring for the dying?
- All human life is holy and sacred because it is created by God.
- All life should be respected and valued, even if a person is ill or elderly.
- Life belongs to God, so destroying life is rejecting God’s gift.
- People have a duty to care for the ill and elderly to maintain their dignity.
132
What does the Catholic Church believe about God’s role in life and death?
Only God has the right to take life away.
Human beings should not interfere with when a person’s life ends.
133
How does the Church view suffering in relation to Jesus?
Suffering can be seen as a way to share in the suffering of Jesus on the cross.
Jesus experienced suffering, so enduring suffering can be spiritually meaningful.
134
How does euthanasia affect the value and dignity of life?
The Church teaches that euthanasia lowers the value and dignity of life.
All life should be valued and respected, even if a person is in pain or suffering.
135
How does the Church suggest suffering should be managed?
Suffering is part of being human, but it can be reduced with medication.
The Church supports pain relief but not euthanasia.
136
What does the Church say about prolonging life unnecessarily?
While against euthanasia, the Church does not believe life should be prolonged unnecessarily with treatments that have no real benefit.
A person close to death should not receive treatment that only prolongs their suffering
137
What quote from the Declaration on Euthanasia (Magisterium) supports the Church’s view?
“…we, without in any way hastening the hour of death, should be able to accept it with full responsibility and dignity.”
This means people should accept death naturally rather than seek euthanasia.
138
What responsibilities do people have towards the ill and elderly?
People must care for the ill and elderly, ensuring they have support and dignity until they die.
Showing care for the dying is central to decisions about their treatment.
