The guest of honour at the recent Catenian City of Westminster Circle Gala and Clergy Night was Rabbi Baroness Julia Neuberger DBE, who gave a thought-provoking talk on end-of-life questions for people of faith and people who have no faith.
In a very interesting and challenging address, Baroness Neuberger outlined the differences and similarities between the Jewish and Catholic faiths in how we view the dying, their families and funerals. The Baroness also explained that the two faiths can learn from each other in how the whole grieving process related to death can be effectively managed. She also questioned why funerals in many communities in the UK take so long to happen, adding to the anxieties suffered by the bereaved.
The Circle was also honoured to welcome 90 guests, among them Catenian Grand President David Rowley and his wife Eileen, and Principal Roman Catholic Chaplain of the Royal Air Force, Fr James Caulfield.
Additional resources around the issues of death and dying, based on the Catholic tradition of Ars Moriendi are available on the Art of Dying Well website.
Pictured: Baroness Neuberger with Catenian Grand President David Rowley
