I joined a lovely celebration for All Saint’s Day at my church not long ago. It was a marvelous hour of peace, with Holy Communion, a timely and thoughtful sermon, joined by fellow parishioners, held in our church’s grove.
Weather permitting, our church has held several outdoor services; about 30 people came together for this beautiful celebration. While I have attended the occasional service in our grove, this was a special day at a particular time.
A three-piece string ensemble played, with one choir member present to lead us in the Hymns. Feeling the sun on my back, with the blue sky and trees above me, was magical. It was comforting, peaceful, and meaningful.
The closing hymn was titled: “I Sing a Song of the Saints of God.” Everyone raised their voice in song. In our church, the celebration of All Saints Day encompasses everyday people, not remote or distant Saints.
The last stanza of the hymn called out to me; we sang this: “You can meet them in school, or in lanes, or at sea, in church, or in trains or in shops, or at tea, for the saints of God are just folk like me, and I mean to be one too.” I can’t think of a more important goal in these troubled times.
Are we there yet? 