Christian death and its celebration

Abstract

Death has always been a problem and at the same time a mystery to man of all ages. Man has no control over it and the thought of death troubles the human being because man is created to live. When confronted with death, man is filled with fear because he knows that when his turn comes he can do nothing to escape it. What is death ? Why do we die ? What does it mean to Christians? These are all questions which great men asked themselves without ever finding a full and satisfying answer. The best answer was given to us by Jesus Christ, the Son of God made man, not only by His words and teachings, but above all by undergoing death like us and was resurrected to a new, everlasting life. Death and resurrection are central to our Christian faith. They are the central message of the Gospel. For the Christian. death is not the end. It forms part of life and is the beginning of a new life. It is a challenge to understand oneself and learn how to live. It was with this aim in mind that I undertook the study on the subject of death. It is important to help people better understand the issues involved and to break down the fears and apprehensions which death entails. Theology means faith seeking to understand. We need to understand the solemn liturgical act accompanying death : the Eucharist and the Anointing of the Sick. The various components : Scripture readings, prayers, hymns, and actions are designed to shed light on the mystery of this sacrament. thereby increasing our understanding.