About Rev. Dennis W. Meinen Expertise I prefer answering questions that a typical parishioner in a typical parish asks.
Experience I was ordained to the priesthood in 1987. One year later I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. I am chaplain at a Catholic retirement/nursing home. I have a scooter (With the help of the Veterans) so I?m never at a desk! I am also involved in the Diocesan Office of Ministry to Persons With Disabilities and serve at our Catholic Hospital doing night call usually once a week. I write a column on disability for our Catholic newspaper and I try to tell how people can overcome obstacles to their disability. I freely admit to everyone that the ways of God are sometimes mysterious, but exciting. Why did God call me to the priesthood, yet will that this disability be part of it? St. Theresa told God that "It's no wonder that You don't have many friends, what with the way You treat them!" According to my human finite reasoning, I could serve God a lot better (and longer) if I was cured. But then I remember that St. Paul said that Jesus told him, ?In weakness power reaches perfection, because you?re strong in the Lord!?
Question I had a miscarriage on my 5th week of pregnancy. I was able to save the tissue that contains the very tiny embryo. What should I do to give my baby a proper burial? Is it necessary to hold a vigil, funeral service, and Mass for my unborn baby? I plan to bury my baby in a large decorative pot because I live in an apartment (I don't have a garden, only a balcony). Then I will plant a nice rose bush in this pot as a memorial for my baby. Is this a good idea? Please give me advice. I want to do what is right according to Roman Catholic Teachings. Please help. Thank you.
Answer Hazell,
I am sorry for your loss. Call any funeral home and they will give you a small casket. Most cemeteries have a place called "Babyland" where the baby can be buried for free. A priest can be called and will say prayers and blessings.
Fr. Meinen
