When it was already evening, since it was the day of preparation, the day before the Sabbath, Joseph of Arimathea, a distinguished member of the council, who was himself awaiting the Kingdom of God, came and courageously went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. Pilate was amazed that he was already dead. He summoned the centurion and asked him if Jesus had already died. And when he learned of it from the centurion, he gave the body to Joseph. Having brought a linen cloth, he took him down, wrapped him in the linen cloth and laid him in a tomb that had been hewn out of rock. Then he rolled a stone against the entrance of the tomb. Mary Magdalene and Mary, the mother of Jesus, watched where he laid. Mark 15, 42-47.
Arimatheans offer comfort to grieving families following the example of Joseph of Arimathea. Whose actions must have comforted Mary with his care of the body of Jesus. Provides parish family presence and support at funerals in our church. At a time when families are grieving the loss of a loved one, the presence of parish family members at the funeral can be a great comfort.