Too many people are dying alone

Dear Editor, Sadly in Ireland now it is not uncommon for persons living alone to be found dead for days or longer despite the plethora of community groups etc. Comments can be made “such and such had no family”, which may mean in some cases they had no children – such comments can ease the guilt of relations and/or neighbours. Each year in Britain the local council has to do the funerals of 3,000 people approx. in the absence of relatives coming forward.

In creating man and woman, God instituted the human family for the common good of its members and of society (Catechism of the Catholic Church 2203). More people may die alone due to the continuing consequences of globalisation promoted by most governments, such as poor or no practising of Christianity, abortion, deliberate small families, family breakdown etc. Pope Emeritus Benedict said “as society becomes ever more globalised it makes us neighbours but does not make us brothers”. There are many reasons why people live alone, but God may allow this to happen in some cases to challenge those blessed with many family members, friends and neighbours to practise the spiritual and corporeal works of mercy where needed in our parishes without being intrusive. The Legion of Mary has also given solace in the past to people living alone and should be revived or promoted in every parish.

Yours etc,

Ann Campbell,

Scotstown, Co. Monaghan.