ALL SAINTS DAY

A Happy and Blessed Solemnity of All Saints to you!!! This is truly a beautiful day and a great reminder to call upon the saints who enjoy the presence of God and who are interceding for us. I saw a post on Facebook that had the picture of four saints and then an open spot with the question, "Are you next?" We are all called to be saints! We may not be canonized by the Church, but how we live our lives and our faith truly speaks volumes. We have received the "Universal Call to Holiness!" To be holy as our Heavenly Father is holy. Our words and our actions can make a difference in peoples lives and hopefully they inspire and touch others to strive for holiness. A beautiful thought was given in the FOCUS from the publication, "COMMENTARY AND GENERAL INTERCESSIONS": "The people you'll meet in heaven" (456). That thought can send chills up and down your spine but it is true. The saints are praying for us and looking forward to having us join them in heaven. Of course, there is a reality that we are up against and that is our society and we pray that God will change peoples minds and hearts. The commentary from the FOCUS continues: "Many in the world today view great beauty, fame, or being wealthy as things which bring happiness and fulfillment. Jesus taught a distinctly different way of living - being poor in spirit, being merciful, being pure of heart, and working for justice and peace. Living these blessings can bring peace, joy, and the promise and hope of salvation" (456). This "Year of Faith" is so important for us because we need to reawaken, reinvigorate our faith and strengthen our deep, intimate relationship with Christ. The saints walked the journey before us and now they are interceding for us. Let us take courage in their presence and prayers and may we one day come to the joys of God's Kingdom where we will meet those who are helping and guiding us!!! Have a blessed Feastday!!!