Fr Jean Claude and I had the pleasure of working together not just once but twice – first in the Pahang/Terengganu District (2004-2006) and later in the KL North District (2014-2015). We would occasionally meet up and have a good chit-chat. When Fr Jean Claude was appointed Administrator for the Church of the Risen Christ in Kuala Lumpur, I left him to manage the Parish independently for a few months. We worked together for at least a year before he became a Parish Priest for the Church of the Risen Christ. Wherever he served, parishioners liked his lively, concise, precise homilies and efficient Mass. He was a man of few words.
We are deeply saddened by the passing of our dear Rev Fr Jean Claude on September 1, 2024, at Sri Seronok in Cheras (Priest Retirement Home). We are grateful for his dedicated service as a priest in the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur. May he receive his well-deserved reward in God’s Kingdom. May he rest in eternal peace, and may perpetual light shine upon him.
When a Catholic Clergy member (Bishop, Priest, or Deacon) passes away, there are some differences in the funeral arrangements when compared to those for laypeople. The body of the late Clergy member is positioned where the head of the deceased faces the people, similar to how the Clergy would face the congregation during the Eucharistic celebration when they were alive. The body of the deceased Clergy member is fully vested with Mass vestments (alb, stole, chasuble, etc.), and for some, who may have preferred, the chasuble worn on their ordination day. This is a profound sign of the respect and honour shown to the deceased. Usually, the Bishop will preside over the funeral Mass for the Priests or Deacons, symbolising unity and leadership within the Church.
For a layperson, the deceased body is usually positioned with the face looking towards the altar during the funeral Mass, which is celebrated at the deceased’s parish. The rituals and prayers during the Mass are generally the same for every Catholic, including the Clergy and the Pope. However, if the priest has been removed from active ministry, the diocesan bishop may have specific restrictions on the type of rites permitted.
The funeral Mass for a deceased priest or deacon is typically celebrated at their home parish or at the last parish where he served. A deceased diocesan Bishop’s funeral Mass is usually held at their Cathedral unless they had chosen another church. Traditionally, the Pope’s body is displayed without a coffin so that people can come and pay their last respects.
“Save us, Lord, while we are awake; protect us while we sleep; that we may keep watch with Christ and rest with Him in peace.”
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| Credited: | https://images.app.goo.gl/XmcUrRcrnyAsaBgY7 |
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