“Go Forth, Christian Soul”

“The Christian who unites his own death to that of Jesus views it as a step towards him and an entrance into everlasting life. When the Church for the last time speaks Christ’s words of pardon and absolution over the dying Christian, seals him for the last time with a strengthening anointing, and gives him Christ in viaticum as nourishment for the journey, she speaks with gentle assurance: 

Go forth, Christian soul, from this world 
in the name of God the almighty Father, 
who created you, 
in the name of Jesus Christ, the Son of the living God, 
who suffered for you, 
in the name of the Holy Spirit, 
who was poured out upon you. 
Go forth, faithful Christian!

May you live in peace this day, 
may your home be with God in Zion, 
with Mary, the virgin Mother of God, 
with Joseph, and all the angels and saints. . . .

May you return to [your Creator] 
who formed you from the dust of the earth. 
May holy Mary, the angels, and all the saints 
come to meet you as you go forth from this life. . . .
May you see your Redeemer face to face.” 

(Catechism of Catholic Church, par.1020)

Go forth Christian soul, go forth Richard Birmingham, go forth good brother. May holy Mary, the angels, and all the saints come to meet you…. may you see your beloved redeemer, Jesus, face to face. And that is very good news.