This coming Sunday is All Saints Sunday, the day when, around the world, faith communities honor those who have died during the past year. But it’s also a day in which we’re invited to remember all of those in our lives, now gone, who have shaped and nurtured us. Even more broadly, it’s an invitation to consider all the wisdom figures of the past whose insights and vision continue to guide us. In different ways, communities around the world will be honoring their wisdom keepers, and this is our opportunity to do the same.
Last Sunday, I shared a wish: that many of us would bring in pictures to place on our communion table – of departed parents and friends, spouses or grandparents, children or companions. We’ll have candles burning on the communion table, as we always do, and perhaps some marigolds as well (used in Mexico during the Day of the Dead). It will be a celebration of life for all who have come, and gone, before us.
We’ll incorporate them all into our prayers on Sunday, as we give thanks for the love that has surrounded us, and that continues to sustain us.