Blessing of Graves:  The blessing of Graves in the Parish Cemeteries will take place on the following days and at the following times:

Sunday 5^th November           Ballyea Church Grounds:  after 10.30am Mass

                                                        Clarecastle:  Clarehill Old Cemetery  –  2pm

                                                        Clarehill New Cemetery                          –  2.30pm

                                                        Killoo                                                             –  3.15pm

 

Sunday 12^th November  Priests Cemetery – Clarecastle Church Grounds after 9am Mass,  

                                                Clare Abbey Cemetery  –  2pm

 

This prayer may help us to find words to pray as we bless the grave.  

God of all creation,

You are present in every place,

in every moment of history,

you are with us, here and now.

We believe that those we loved

who are buried in this grave (speak their names)

are held in your embrace.

As we sprinkle this water,  (sprinkle holy water)

we pray that a circle of light, happiness and peace

may surround them and that they may come

to the fullness of life in your presence.

We remember how their lives shaped us,

their hands held us, their words inspired us,

their love supported and sustained us.

Eternal God, you see face to face

those we remember here.

Give us confidence that what we have loved in them

is not lost, but lives on in your presence,

as it does in our hearts.

Comfort us in our loss and help us to believe

that one day we shall be united with them

when we too shall see you, face to face.

We ask this in the name of Jesus, your Son,

the first-born from the dead,

who lives and reigns with you forever and ever. Amen