Grant we pray, O Lord, that your departed servants,
for whom we have celebrated this paschal Sacrament, may pass over to a dwelling place of light and peace. Through Christ our Lord.
"Prayer after Communion" from All Souls' Day Mass
Throughout the history of the Catholic Church, we have long held the tradition of praying for the dead. Each November, we recognize those who have died in our celebrations of All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day. In addition, we offer our prayers for deceased family, friends, and members of our community who have died in both the General Intercessions (Prayer of the Faithful) and the Eucharistic Prayer during Mass throughout the whole year.
Interested in praying for your loved ones in a special way? Here are some opportunities offered at Our Lady of Knock Parish:
Mass Intentions
At both churches of Our Lady of Knock Parish, we offer our parishioners the chance to remember their deceased loved ones by scheduling Mass and candle intentions. Each Mass celebrated at our churches throughout the year honors a special and particular Mass Intention that is mentioned and prayed for by both the priest and those in the congregation.
Candles
At both churches, the Sanctuary Lamp (the red lamp that sits near the tabernacle and perpetually reminds us of the light and presence of Jesus Christ) can be requested and lit each week for certain intentions and in special memory of others who have died. In addition, at St. Patrick Church the "Christ in Blessing" candle next to the statue of Jesus in the front of the church can also be requested and lit.
Mass Cards
Both of our churches offer Mass Cards for the deceased as well. Often these Masses are used to offer comfort and condolences to friends or family members in their moments of loss, reminding them that the Church and its people are there to support them.
All of the prayer opportunities listed above are offered on a first come, first served basis but have certain limitations so as to give our entire parish family the opportunity to participate in this prayerful act of remembrance. To schedule a Mass Intention, reserve the Sanctuary Lamp, or request up a Mass Card, we ask that you call, email, or stop the Parish Office. Our staff will be happy to do their best in scheduling your requests on or near a special day or anniversary from the life of your loved one.