All Saints Day

Today, November 1st is All Saints Day, the day set aside in the church calendar to remember all the faithful followers of Jesus (saints) who have died. In English, the traditional name for All Saints’ Day was All Hallows Day. The vigil or eve of the feast, October 31, is still commonly known as All Hallows Eve, or Halloween
 
The testimony of the faith of those who are now in heaven is an encouragement to us and spurs us on! The day was established originally to honor the many martyrs who died for their faith but has also come to be an opportunity to call to mind the heroes of Christian history, those whose example has been inspiring, who form our “internal chorus” or “cloud of witnesses” whose lives, or teachings or example has influenced our faith.

Which beloved ones can you give thanks for today? Whose lives told of God’s unfailing love and grace? These saints speak from the past and are whispering at this moment…

"God is faithful."
"The Lord is good. Trust Him."
"His grace was sufficient for me in my trials and is sufficient for you today."

So many beautiful friends of Jesus have formed my faith and influenced my life with God. I say their names to God today in gratitude for their obedience, sincerity and authenticity of faith: Randy, Beth, Phil, Doug, Mike, Julie, Robert, Pete, Steve, Erik, Allene and Elmer, Nancy and Warren, Ellen, Roland…

 Grace and peace,

Anita Sorenson
Pastor for Spiritual Formation