The Saints Amongst Us

Dear Pali Pres,

Today, the first day of November, is celebrated as “All Saints’ Day,” which means that this coming Sunday at our church is “All Saints’ Sunday.” Each year we set aside a special day to honor those who have died in the faith—the “saints” who have lived among us and taught us, through their lives, what it means to be a faithful follower of Christ. Together we will give thanks to God for the gift of those we have loved and lost, even as we still miss them and mourn their passing.

I know I will be calling to mind those in our church family who have recently died, such as Marti Sadowski, Linda Grant and Margaret Biles. I will also be holding in my heart my grandparents, my uncle Steve, and my good friend from Japan, Paul, who have all gone home to be with the Lord. There is something special about remembering—together in community—those who have died knowing that the Spirit holds us all together always, even if those we love are not physically present with us.

I encourage you to come to worship on Sunday with an open and tender heart as we celebrate All Saints’ Sunday. Our time together will be less about grieving (though that is certainly appropriate!) and more about giving thanks for those who have gone before us and reflecting on the lessons they taught us. As well, we will pray for God to make us even stronger in our faith so we can continue the great tradition set by the “saints” who have gone before us.

Yours in Christ,

Pastor Matt