Memorial Services for Laurence

My friend Laurence passed away earlier this fall (see my October 2 blog).  Not too long afterward, his family held a memorial service in California.  Today is the memorial service in Oregon.

In some ways, I feel like I have already been to a third memorial service - at the Chapel of the Holy Cross in Sedona, Arizona.  The Chapel is the site of one of Sedona's famous vortexes or energy centers and just a short drive from the center of town.  It was definitely on my "places to go" list.  With so many things to see and do, however, I didn't actually get there until late afternoon on my last full day in Arizona. 

As I walked up to the Chapel from the parking lot, I admired once again the rugged landscape I had enjoyed throughout my trip.  On entering, I was struck by the powerful simplicity of the Chapel's design and the reverence of all those visiting.  I sat for a while, enjoying the peacefulness, then noticed candles flickering along a side wall.  I asked someone whether I could light a candle in memory of a friend, and she said that candle-lighting would be a part of the Taize Prayer Service which would start in about 15 minutes. I had not even realized that services were held at the Chapel, but I decided to stay. 

As the service opened, a woman asked that we share where we had come from to visit the Chapel.  I was surprised to hear that people from Norway, Italy, South Africa, and many other countries were present as well as those from the United States.  It was clear that many faiths were represented. 

Together, we joined in the chants and readings that made up the service.  Then, we were invited to pick up a candle, light it, and put it on the altar.  The prayerful chanting continued as every person had a chance to participate.  I marveled at this meeting of so many people from so many places, both geographically and spiritually, and their willingness to pray together.  How appropriate it seemed that I could light a candle for Laurence in this serene and sacred space!  Probably no one else there even knew Laurence, but I felt this peaceful coming together honored him in a special way.

I feel very fortunate to have experienced this international and inspirational Taize Prayer Service.  What a beautiful way to complete my trip to Sedona and to remember my beloved friend.

Note:  To learn more about the Chapel of the Holy Cross, there are many websites you can visit, such as www.sacred-destinations.com/usa/sedona-chapel-of-the-holy-cross.  It is quite interesting to read the story of the Chapel, which which was inspired and commissioned by sculptor Marguerite Brunswig Staude, student of Frank Lloyd Wright.