Blessings to you on All Saints Day! Today (November 1st) is the day we remember all those who have finished their course on earth and have gone on to glory. On Sunday we will light candles in remembrance of the members of our church who have died since last year. We will also light a candle in memory of the other loved ones we have lost and will have the opportunity to speak their names aloud.

On All Saints Day we often read Paul's words from Hebrews 12:1-3

¹ Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, ² fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. ³ Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.

As people of faith, we recognize that those who have died remain with us. As Paul affirms, we are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses. Who are the saints of your life? Who makes up your cloud of witnesses? May we give thanks to God for all those who have touched our lives.