I believe the world is a better place for Chavez's death. If Chavez truly sought forgiveness for his sins, then he may be in a better place than he was on earth.
Certainly it is possible that he repented in real faith in the LOrd Jesus to save him by His sinless, shed blood, as a damned+destitute sinner, and which was also said in defense of Ted Kennedy.
However, in both cases there was zero evidence of any real repentance.
And thus, as likely with Chavez, traditional RCs were upset at Kenedy’s funeral.
Kennedy, was given Masses in his own house at the same time he impenitently promoted abortion and homosexual rights. And then was honored with a glorious funeral, in which Pres, Obama gave a eulogy, contrary to canon law., and even offered a prayer for Teddy’s soul. (http://www.canonlaw.info/blogarch09.htm)
And which body of law also forbids as his moral views were effectively a “withdrawal of submission to the Supreme Pontiff,” (Canon Law # 751)
According to Canon 1184 §, unless they gave some signs of repentance before death, the following must be deprived of ecclesiastical funerals:
1/ notorious apostates, heretics, and schismatics;
2/ those who chose the cremation of their bodies for reasons contrary to Christian faith;
3/ other manifest sinners who cannot be granted ecclesiastical funerals without public scandal of the faithful. (http://www.ewtn.com/library/liturgy/zlitur280.htm)
Kenedy’s RC funeral should have public scandal of the faithful, as there was not manifest signs of repentance before death
In a recent letter to the Pope which was read at his graveside, he insolently asserts he “never failed to believe and respect the fundamental teachings” of his church, and tried to be a faithful Catholic, etc..
The closest thing we get to any kind of contrition is the ambiguous, “I know that I have been an imperfect human being, but with the help of my faith, I have tried to right my path,” before he goes on to to defend his wonderful works, including universal health care. Not a word of remorse about supporting abortion or promoting homosexual rights, or indolence and a welfare state.
Nor did the pope censure him at all in his response, but “the Holy Father cordially imparts his Apostolic Blessing as a pledge of wisdom, comfort and strength in the Lord.” ( www.politicsdaily.com/2009/08/29/ted-kennedy-to-pope-benedict-i-am-writing-with-deep-humility/)
As one in need of grace, i do not want to be hard on struggling believers, but such men as Kennedy were critically in error and unrepentant, and illustrates what Rome effectually conveys in part.
See http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/religion/2901874/posts?page=68#68 and thread relevant to this. more