HTML Preview Naming Cermony English page number 2.
The loss of a child during pregnancy, stillbirth or very early in their life is one of the
most difficult things that mothers and fathers deal with. Often the responses that
they receive are inappropriate even if well intentioned. Eighteen months ago, I was
presented with a proposal for a new ministry that would provide support and
comfort to those grieving the loss of their unborn or newly born child. This ministry,
embrace, has been conceived out of that grief and will provide families going
through this difficult challenge with a sound spiritual response to their loss. I have
asked our deacons to take the lead in bringing this ministry to the Archdiocese.
Many of our married deacon clergy have experienced this loss first hand and can
relate to the many challenges that are involved. Our priests also need to be aware of
this ministry and the approach that we are taking to this critical need.
+Wilton D. Gregory
Archbishop of Atlanta
April 2012
Prayers and readings excerpted from the following books:
Order of Christian Funerals, 1985
Roman Missal, 2010
Rite of Baptism for Children, 1969
Book of Blessings, 1987
Lectionary for Mass, 1997
This ceremony is intended only for use within the Archdiocese of Atlanta.