To me, the best part of today’s office is its very first line, the antiphon of the Invitatory Psalm. What a glorious affirmation on the day we remember our beloved dead: that they are NOT dead, and that their unending lives will find their purpose and fulfillment when they are immersed in the beauty and goodness of Christ.
The Office of the Dead is interesting. It forms the liturgy of All Souls Day. We can also use it as a votive (at our own choosing) office on any weekday in ordinary time that doesn’t have an obligatory memorial, feast, or solemnity. We would do well to use it on learning of a loved one’s death, on the day of a funeral, and on the anniversary of a loved one’s death.
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