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Dear Friend,
I can apply the phrase “larger than life” to my loved ones who are now with God in heaven. They were “larger than life” not because they made headlines or were written about in history books. They were “larger than life” because they made a positive, lasting impact on me and many other people.
My mother Elizabeth was “larger than life.” Her example of concern for the poor and less fortunate was a major reason why I am a missionary priest. My father John was “larger than life.” The tremendous respect he showed for his co-workers is something I try to
emulate today.
The next time you comfort a loved one who has lost someone special in their life, remind
them that the departed was “larger than life.” Comforting someone who is mourning is a form of Christian ministry. By offering a listening ear or holding a hand, we suffer with the person who is grieving. We also bring hope of the promise of union with God.
 Here are a few ways you can give the gift of healing and hope to someone who is grieving:
1) E-mail me the name of a loved one who has passed so they can be remembered in prayer by the Missionary Oblates.
2) Support our Oblate grief ministries. Oblates work in hospitals and medical clinics around the world, caring for the spiritual needs of the sick and dying, and their families.
3) Send them a gift. These gifts can be given to someone who is grieving to remind them that they are not alone.
Please know that my fellow Oblates and I will be remembering you and your special intentions in our Masses and prayers. When your loved one is grieving, we will be praying with you as a reminder that the departed is “larger than life.”
 Sincerely in the Risen Christ,
Fr. John Madigan, O.M.I.
Oblate Director
P.S. You can have a VOTIVE CANDLE lit in memory of the deceased person at the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows.
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