Thank You Sarah
It was just past midnight as I sat in hospital with my friend Sarah. Her children and grandchildren had gone home for some much needed rest. It was obvious that Sarah was at the end of this life's journey and preparing for her next. The nursing staff had kindly moved her into a private room, affording more privacy and dignity.I had brought with me a small radio and a book, which I read to Sarah during the night. And I was prepared to offer her Viaticum (a prayer of provision for her journey) as morning broke. It was our private time together.
It was close to 2AM when Sarah opened her eyes. I had stopped reading and was watching the shallow rise and fall of her frame as her body instinctively fought, clinging to the last vestige of life. The music that softly played from the small radio was Vaughan Williams' The Lark Ascending.
I asked Sarah if she would mind my saying prayers for her now. She had such a sweet and lovely radiance in her face. I found a tissue in my pocket and wiped a tear that ran from her eye. I stroked her hair and briefly thought of her sisters and children.
Almighty God, look upon Your servant Sarah, as she lies here in weakness. Comfort her with the promise of life everlasting, given in the resurrection of Your Son Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Sarah surrendered her mortal life a few hours later, with dignity and embraced in love.
Thank you Sarah. Thank you for the honour of being my friend.
Labels: comfort words for someone dying, helpful words for someone dying, how to care for a loved one who is dying, how to care for someone dying, prayers for someone dying
posted by Father Bill Haymaker | 14:59:00
2 Comments:
These are the best words of comfort for someone dying I have found. My grandfather is dying and I found this was the first thing that popped up when I put in google comforting words for someone dying. Before I read this I think I was afraid to touch my grandfather. You helped me see that its ok.
I was looking for what to say to someone who is dieing. My uncle is at the end of his life and I didn't know what to say. I'm glad I found this and the other blog you have about comforting words for someone with terminal illness. Thank you. This has helped me.
Post a Comment
<< Home