2) Encourage the dying patients to set their things in order; to share with their loved ones the things that are important, that need to be said, done, or forgiven. 3) Encourage them to make peace with God and to seek forgiveness and trust in His mercy. If they are Catholic, invite or encourage them to receive the Sacraments of the Church: the Anointing of the Sick, Confession, and the Eucharist through the ministry of the Priest. If of other faiths, call the Ministers of the patients’ religion. Call the local Parish Priest or Minister if not available through Pastoral Care. 4) Pray for the dying patient alone, or together with others, the patient’s family, or friends. Pray the Divine Mercy Chaplet or the Rosary or other prayers of the patient’s or family’s choice. 5) Console with God’s word of love to deepen trust: “Can a mother forget her infant, be without tenderness for the child of her womb? Even should she forget, I will never forget you. See, upon the palms of My hands I have written your name ... .” “It was our infirmities that He bore, our sufferings that He endured ... upon Him was the chastisement that makes us whole, by His wounds we are healed (Is 49:15-16; 53:4-5). 6) Remind them of God’s infinite mercy and love for us: My mercy is greater than your sins and those of the entire world. Come, then, with trust to draw graces from this fountain. I never reject a contrite heart (1485). Do not lose heart or give in to despondency. Tell Me about every- thing ... reveal all the wounds of your heart. I will heal them, and your suffering will become a source of your sanctification (1487). A suffering soul is closest to My Heart. I am always supporting you, so lean on Me as 76
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