I’m a Catholic and I dont like Teddy. But every baptized Catholic, no matter their sins, is entitled to a Mass of Christian Burial. At baptism Teddy received a small “pall” and at his funeral another “pall” will be placed on the casket It’s all part of a 2000 year old ritual.This pall is a reminder of the white baptismal garment, a sign of the Christian dignity of the person. Just as the new Christian was clothed in the white garment when he or she became a member of the Church, the coffin is covered with a white cloth as the person enters into a new life in the resurrection of Jesus. however, baptism remains the fundamental identity. Other emblems should not displace Christian symbols reminding the community of the person’s baptism.
All I can hope was that Sen.Ted made peace with God before he had passed.