Let us consider this possible conversation between ourselves and the Faithful Departed, whom we commemorate this day. We might say: Oh, how blest are ye whose toils are ended, Who through death have unto God ascended! Ye have arisen From the cares which keep us still in prison.
And the Faithful Departed would respond:
Truly, we to glory have arisen From all cares that held us in a prison, Earthly toil ended, We unto our God are now ascended.
We are still as in a dungeon living, Still oppressed with sorrow and misgiving; Our undertakings Are but toils and troubles and heart-breakings.
We no more as in a dungeon wander; God has taken us to Heaven yonder. Tears and frustrations Are the sum of earthly expectation.
Ye meanwhile are in your chambers sleeping, Quiet, and set free from all our weeping; No cross or sadness There can hinder your untroubled gladness.
Oh, our destiny, how blest! How wond’rous To be free from earthly pain so pond’rous! Naught but rejoicing Fills us now, our thanks and praises voicing.
Christ has wiped away your tears forever; Ye have that for which we still endeavor; To you are chanted Songs that ne'er to mortal ears were granted.
Ah, what words, what language might we borrow To describe our freedom from all sorrow! Naught else but singing Of the Angels in our ears is ringing!
Ah, who would, then, not depart with gladness To inherit heaven for earthly sadness? Who here would languish Longer in bewailing and in anguish?
In the world man’s heart is torn with anguish, Constantly his soul in pain must languish; But Jesus’ merit, Death a door has made, Life to inherit.
Come, O Christ, and loose the chains that bind us: Lead us forth and cast this world behind us. With Thee, th’ Anointed, Finds the soul its joy and rest appointed.
Dearest friends, we say farewell with gladness; May our death not cause you grief and sadness. By Christ invited, Someday we again shall be united!
