We are not able to run away from death; it is a reality that will happen to all of us sooner or later.

The sacrament of the anointing of the sick is for healing and it is not the same as the commendation for the dying. The commendation prayer is a beautiful prayer with the litany of the saints employing all the saints to come and assist the dying person to really encounter God and go peacefully.

In our faith, a meaningful death, is recognizing that it is our earthly life is completed, and we are going back to The Father who has promised us eternal life.

So as a Christian, if we are journeying with a family or friend who is dying especially from terminal illnesses like cancer, we have the responsibility and faith to help a person to die peacefully when their time comes.

This is a very difficult and painful topic but let us all try to have the courage to support and pray with them to open all hearts to receive God’s peace.

Novena Devotion by Fr. Simon Tan, C.Ss.R. (28 June 2025)