requiescat in pacem - pt 2

If you follow the links in my prior post on the death of Avery Dulles, you will see the common sentiment on the death of a loved one or respected figure that

a light has gone out

. I must respectfully disagree.

The light of the world is Christ. We are but mirrors that reflect and prisms that spread that light into the world. As indicated by all the messages of those who knew and knew of him, he was an admirable bearer of that burden.

But by his death he has not left us. He is still alive in the record of his work - his writings. He is still alive in the memories of his presence. And if we are Christians, we believe he is still alive in the communion of the saints.

As Jesus by his death and resurrection, he is still with us and has gone before us.

requiescat in pacem are words of faith - we believe them to be true.

requiescat in pacem are words of hope - we look forward to them as true of Avery and ourselves.

requiescat in pacem are words of love - we say and pray them to create and line the manger in which to place our memories.