The Reception of One of the Saints

It is part of my duty, honor, and privilege as your priest to do things that are sometimes unseen, quiet, and profoundly moving.

This afternoon I received the cremated remains of James Bradford – “Mr. Jim,” at the church to rest until the day we can gather together to celebrate his life. I said these beautiful prayers from the Book of Common Prayer, for the Reception of the Body, page 466.

With faith in Jesus Christ, we receive the body of our brother Jim for burial. Let us pray with confidence to God, the Giver of life, that he will raise him to perfection in the company of the saints.

Deliver your servant, Jim, O Sovereign Lord Christ, from all evil, and set him free from every bond; that he may rest with all your saints in the eternal habitations; where with the Father and the Holy Spirit you live and reign, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Let us also pray for all who mourn, especially Jim’s family, that they may cast their care on God, and know the consolation of his love.

Almighty God, look with pity upon the sorrows of your servants for whom we pray. Remember them, Lord, in mercy; nourish them with patience; comfort them with a sense of your goodness; lift up your countenance upon them; and give them peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

I bid your prayers for the Bradford family and thank the women of the church for providing food, prayers, and support to Louise and the Bradford children and grandchildren.