Guidelines on Holy Matrimony and Funeral Rites

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L-R : Phillip Mosinoh handing over the proposed guidelines to Fr Thomas

Sandakan : A panel was formed towards the end of last year to study and draw up the proposed guidelines on procedures for holy matrimony and also funeral rites led by Phillip Mosinoh, Chairman of the St May's Parish Liturgical Committee, had accomplished its assignment. Members of the panel included representatives of the Liturgical Committee, the 3-language Family Life Committees, the 3-language communities and parish staff. Phillip presented the final draft of the guidelines to Fr Thomas Makajil, the rector on Tuesday, 24th July 2012 witnessed by members of the panel.

The guidelines on holy matrimony touch on the do's and don'ts before, during and after the celebration. The said guidelines will be explained to the couple during the pre-marriage course and during pre-nuptial inquiry. For the funeral rites, the office and related ministries should do all it could to help with the funeral arrangement. We should at the earliest opportunity provide the initial response for spiritual support  to all members of the bereaved family. The guidelines and order of the celebration are based on the new Roman Missal.

Fr Thomas expressed his appreciation to Phillip and all panel members for their commitment in preparing the guidelines. Parishioners would realize that through such effort the Church is much concern of the well-being of each and all. It is not absolute but to build on from time to time. He called on members to implement the guidelines wisely, placing service as priority, adopting a pastoral approach emphasizing on pastoral concern. 

For funeral service, if administered with compassion and care, conversion could happen and lapsed members would find their way home to the Church. The ultimate goal of our service is for the salvation of souls.