A Procession to outdo all Processions

In the past I have submitted articles that evolved around dreams with some of them regarding Purgatory having a positive effect. Last night (Sunday, July 17) this dream surpassed all others with a view of the future revolving around the final chapter of Revelation.

Many people were in church awaiting what was to be the start of a procession with clergy, parishioners, and the bishop pronouncing a gala event that everyone was eager to participate in. My position in this activity was to carry a large wooden bowl filled with ashes and place it at the foot of the altar once we all ended in church. Father Carmen, a long-time friend and priest of our diocese, was to be at my side and guide me to the place I would set the bowl.

While everyone was seated or just standing around I found myself sitting with several men sharing bread and dipping it in oil. As the evening drew on there were women on a stage singing and preparing to lead the procession. They were dressed in festive attire that appeared to fit the evening’s retinue.

When the time had arrived to begin the singers left the stage singing joyfully. It reminded me of Psalm 68; “Your procession comes into view, O God, your procession into the holy place, my God and king. The singers go first, the harpists follow; in their midst girls sound the timbrels. In your choirs, bless God; bless the Lord, you from Israel’s assemblies. In the lead is Benjamin, few in number; there the princes of Judah, a large throng, the princes of Zebulum, the princes of Naphtali, too.” (Ps 68: 25 -28).

My name was called to prepare a position for myself. As I arose from the table I had been sitting at I told the others that I was a deacon and would be carrying the bowl filled with ashes. My attire was all gold and I believe I was wearing over the vestments something as a Humeral Veil as what we wear during the blessing at Benediction.

Once I walked to where Fr. Carmen and another priest were standing. I could see they were clothed in total gold vestments but just cassocks. As I turned to the congregation there were thousands of priests among the people all in gold, just as Fr. Carmen and his priest friend. I discovered the ashes must have represented the remains of all the martyrs of the church and they would be placed in honor of the Sacrifice Jesus gave for all.

It is more than symbolic that this procession would be led by the bishop, who in essence was Jesus Christ who now is leading all the faithful home to his Father.

Ralph B. Hathaway