# Praying for the Departed – A Worthy Catholic Tradition
*2016-09-24*

> Bill Young reflects on the tragic death of Miami Marlins pitcher José Fernández and leads a prayer for his soul and those of his teammates, highlighting the Catholic tradition of praying for the departed.

## Remembering José Fernández

Bill begins by honoring José Fernández, the 24‑year‑old Miami Marlins pitcher who died in a robbery in Coconut Grove. He notes Fernández’s achievements—Rookie of the Year in 2013, All‑Star in his last two seasons, and a comeback from Tommy John surgery—as well as his zest for life, his generosity to a child with cancer, and his recent U.S. citizenship. Bill shares how Fernández’s loss feels personal, recalling his own family’s tragedy when his wife’s brother died at 19, leaving a newborn son who later grew into a husband and father.

## Why We Pray for the Departed

Bill explains that when tragedy strikes, we cannot always understand why God allows it. The Catholic response is to pray for the souls of the deceased, trusting in God’s mercy. He reminds listeners that November is dedicated to praying for the faithful departed, with All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day celebrating the communion of saints and the fellowship between the living and the dead.

## A Prayer for José Fernández and His Friends

Bill leads a prayer drawn from the Roman Missal, asking God to grant eternal rest to José Fernández and the two teammates who died with him. He prays that Christ’s victory over death may bring them into His glory, that they may enjoy the wisdom of God’s presence forever, and that the Holy Spirit may keep them in the communion of saints. He concludes with gratitude for the brief time they were able to witness Fernández’s life and a prayer for his peace.

*In the face of loss, the Church invites us to pray for the departed, trusting that their souls rest in Christ’s eternal glory.*