Gathering
February 28, 2021
We went down to the Eastern Shore to say goodbye to my sister. It was an emotional trip.
Joanne's funeral Mass was held at her church, with only family and close friends there to remember her. Masks were required and the seating was carefully arranged to maintain proper social distance during Mass. Joanne was very active in the church, so the priest was able to make the Mass very personal and touching.
I teared up during the eulogy, and again during the 23rd Psalm - a version that was sung beautifully, even though the words were updated. I have to admit that, being an ex-Catholic, I was pretty rusty on the responses, but managed to get them mostly right.
All went well, until Ave Maria. As soon as the organ started the introduction, I started crying. Joe started crying. We cried together through the hymn; I'm sure we weren't the only ones. I sent a silent kiss to my sister as the funeral director carried her down the aisle. We hugged the family, yes we did, and I am pretty sure that Joanne spread her light over us and kept us all safe.
Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon her. May the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.