“We believe in the Communion of Saints.”

This Sunday we will remember those who have gone before. Those who have entered into the “Great Cloud of Witnesses” (Hebrews 12). We give thanks for their lives.

We share this belief each and every week when we pray the Apostles’ Creed, “I believe in…the communion of saints.” The communion of saints includes all who have placed their hope in Jesus Christ.

In my study, I was surprised to learn that the “communion of saints” includes the living.

From the blog, “What is the Significance of All Saints Day?” Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. October 26, 2021 (nationalshrine.org)

“The Sermon on the Mount – specifically, the Beatitudes, are the “Basic Attitudes of Christ.” This passage is quite fitting for All Saints because all the saints experienced joy in the midst of sorrow or suffering. Jesus says in the Beatitudes that those who are poor, in mourning, or who are persecuted are blessed.

When we do our best to live out the beatitudes, we contribute to building up the kingdom of God here on earth. On All Saints, we pray in a special way to the saints that they continue to help and guide us along our path of life.

One of my favorite quotations from Saint Teresa of Calcutta is that ‘holiness is not the luxury of a few people, but a simple duty for you and me.’ We are all called to become saints, and we can accomplish that by striving to follow God’s commands and be united within God’s love. To be holy, to be a saint, means allowing God ‘to live Jesus’ life in us’ as Mother Teresa taught.”

Please join us this Sunday, November 3 at either or both worship times – 8:30 and 10 AM, when we will lift up those for whom we will celebrate their life and resurrection, from All Saints 2023 to All Saints 2024, here at St. Luke’s; both members and nonmembers alike.

We will say their name, show a picture, light a candle, and toll a bell for each one. As we do so prayerfully reflect upon your own life. Are you living out the “Attitudes of Christ” allowing the life of Jesus to live within you.

Let us remember those who have died along with ongoing prayers and blessings for their family and friends:

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