Father Francis Bradley to celebrate special Mass for deceased young people in the Diocese of Derry
This Sunday 24 November at 4.00pm a special Mass of remembrance will be celebrated for all deceased young people of the Diocese of Derry, and the Mass will remember in a particular way those who have passed away this year. This will be the 8th annual Mass for families and friends. During this Mass the Diocesan community will gather together to remember, to pray, and to celebrate the life of loved ones. In addition, representatives of community, social and sports groups are also expected to attend.
The Mass will be celebrated by Father Francis Bradley, Diocesan Administrator of the Diocese of Derry, in Saint Eugene’s Cathedral, Derry. Music for this special Mass will be provided by the Long Tower parish folk group.
Ahead of the Mass Father Bradley said, “The death of a loved one is always a difficult experience, but this pain can be even greater when the deceased is only an infant, a child, or a young adult. The Mass will be an opportunity for families and friends to come together to remember their loved ones and to find strength in being together as a Diocesan Community.”
Father Bradley continued, “In the Gospel of Saint Matthew, Jesus invites us to ‘Come to me, all you who labour and are overburdened and I will give you rest’ (Mt 11:28). In times of difficulty these can be difficult words to accept, and yet we are each invited to place our woes and difficulties at the foot of the Cross. The Diocese of Derry extends an invitation to all who are grieving the loss of a young friend or relative at this time to cast your burden on the altar of the Lord.”
Light refreshments will be made available after Mass and there will be an informal opportunity to share experiences and to offer support to each other.
“In truth I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise” (LK 23:43)
ENDS
For media contact: Catholic Communications Office Maynooth: Martin Long 00353 (0) 86 172 7678 and Brenda Drumm 00353 (0) 87 310 4444
