music, prayer and the funeral rite (key beliefs) Flashcards
How does music express catholic beliefs about eternal life?
Music brings comfort and peace/calm. Fauré’s requiem has been described as a ‘lullaby of death’. The focus is not on sadness but on the hope of eternal life. Fauré’s music for In Paradisum (part of the requiem) is gentle to show that life’s trials have ended and the choir sings in a higher pitch, sounding like the angels in heaven.
How does the catholic funeral rite express catholic beliefs about eternal life?
1) Coffin covered with pall - Reminder of baptism/ all are equal so all are worthy of salvation
2) Cross & bible on the coffin - Christians who live by the example of Jesus will have eternal life
3) Coffin sprinkled with holy water - Reminder of baptism
4) Paschal Candle is Lit - Catholics believe the dead will resurrect as Jesus did
5) Readings about eternal life - Comfort the grieving and bring hope
Why do catholic pray?
Prayer is ‘the raising of the mind and heart to God’ (Catechism). Reasons for prayer include Adoration, Thanksgiving, Repentance, Intercession (asking God to help others),
Petitions (asking God to help you).
What are formulaic prayers?
Prayers that are well known or have a set formula (e.g. Hail Mary, Lord’s prayer, Rosary -make sure you know these prayers). Some prefer these because they have more
authority and allow a Christian to focus without having to think what to say.
What are extempore prayers?
Prayers that are spontaneous, when Christians use their own words to speak to God. Some prefer these because they are more personal.
