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A Mission of Mercy
There are many connections between cemeteries and the pro-life movement. Both seek to respect and protect the bodies of people who, for one reason or another, are quite vulnerable. The unborn, frequently under-protected in law; the elderly, increasingly at risk of euthanasia; and the dead, whose remains are too often subject to neglect and disrespect.
When expectant mothers lose children earlier than 20 weeks into pregnancy, sometimes a doctor will request various tests hoping to shed light on the cause. These tests may be done in Madison, where St. Mary's Hospital has one of the largest pathology laboratories in Southwestern Wisconsin, serving surrounding communities including Janesville, Baraboo, Monroe, and Platteville. If testing is to be done, parents have the option of allowing the hospital to assume responsibility for respectful burial, choosing a funeral home, or taking care of their child’s remains themselves. Many entrust the bodies of their children to the hospital.
After the pathology lab finishes the testing, the children whose parents indicated they want respectful burial are brought to Resurrection Catholic Cemetery in Madison. In late October, representatives from the Diocese of Madison’s Catholic Cemeteries and St. Mary’s Pathology Lab gathered with Bishop Hying at the Cemetery for a graveside committal service. On that day, 145 miscarried children were laid to rest, as those gathered prayed, “May the angels and saints lead them to the place of light and peace where one day we will be brought together again.” They all fit in one small casket, and were placed in a grave dedicated for this ministry. Twice each year, this service will be repeated. The cemetery keeps a list of mother’s names so that a child can be located even if the parents were unable to attend the committal.
Pandemic restrictions limited the participation of parents in this moving ritual, which can provide healing, closure, and hope. We look forward to inviting all parents to participate when conditions allow.
There is no charge to parents for this service. Performing this final act of mercy for the mortal remains of these children is supported by St. Mary’s Hospital, Resurrection Catholic Cemetery, and the many generous donors to the Annual Catholic Appeal.
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About the author
Damian Lenshek is Director of Cemeteries for the Diocese of Madison.
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