Courtney McGrailDear Editor, The recently issued Vatican directive “that the ashes of loved ones, after cremation, must be buried, stored or scattered, only, in sacred, consecrated communal places” was a timely and welcome one.
It brings to mind a little story related by the late Liam Clancy, youngest of the famous singing Clancy Brothers. While on tour in California, he got an urgent call from a female family friend, Pamela, to come down to Los Angeles immediately. Her husband, Leslie, a well-to-do ship’s captain and longstanding friend had passed away. Since cremation, part of the ashes lay in an urn on the mantelpiece for distribution per request.
Liam was invited to the final distribution of ashes at sea ceremony.
On arrival at the huge floodlit period house everybody seemed in a hilarious state of inebriation. After cutting short the welcoming and hugging, Clancy was soon in the midst of the fun. Suddenly a distracted voice came over the speakers.
This beautiful lady, obviously the widow, emerged from the crowd carrying an urn in her left hand. “We’ll never make the docks in time now; it’s already passed midnight,” she cried.
She pleaded apologetically with mourners to follow her down this long hall leading to a spacious washroom cum toilet.
“Tears still dropping from her eyes, Pamela sheepishly explained: “This is now my beloved’s shortest way home.” Gently, she released the silver chain and poured the contents of the urn down the plush toilet.
“Here goes the remains of my beloved Leslie for the fish of the ocean to enjoy and may the Good Lord watch over his immortal soul.”
“Amen”, as Liam and his friends raised glasses to the final toast of that cremation. As with worldly institutions, religious ones also require regulation, if they are to retain respect and reverence.
Yours etc.,
James Gleeson.
Thurles, Co. Tipperary.