Msgr. Pope on Preparing to Die

"At Ash Wednesday Masses we heard the ancient acclamation, as ashes are imposed, Remember that you are dust, and unto dust you shall return.

"The  beginning of the Lenten season puts before us an urgent plea that we should be sober and watchful of our soul and its condition, for the form of this world is passing away (1 Cor 7:31).

"Simply put, we are going to die and we need to be made ready to meet our God. Recall some of the urgency present in the readings:

     "Even now, says the LORD, return to me with your whole heart …

     "Sound the trumpet in Zion!

     "We implore you on behalf of Christ, be reconciled to God!

     "Behold, now is the day of salvation.

"Yes, now, not later. There is an urgency announced that we must hear and heed."

In a recent commentary, Monsignor Charles Pope (pastor of Holy Comforter-Saint Cyprian Parish, Washington, DC) reflected on the importance of be earnest about our preparations to meet God when we leave our earthly existence, and he reminds us to "Be thoughtful; reflect, considering carefully what your decisions amount to, where you are headed, and what your life means."

To access Msgr. Pope’s complete post, please visit:

Msgr. Charles Pope: You are Going to Die – An After Ash Wednesday Reflection (18 FEB 15)