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Communion of
Saints

“Our living of the gospel makes us a part of this communion of saints, experiencing the fulfillment of God’s reign even as we actively anticipate a new heaven and a new earth.” – A Song of Faith (The United Church of Canada 2006)

Next Wednesday, Nov. 1, is All Saints Day. It is an opportunity for us to remember all who came before us in our faith story, and all who mentored us on our own faith journey. Here at Sunnybrook there have been several memorial services over this past year. Each one has been an opportunity to remember a story and give thanks for someone’s contribution to the life and work of this community. More than that though, personal connections are remembered in a way that reminds us how past experiences shape us into who we are, and who we are becoming. It’s a beautiful way of recognizing the presence of the
Holy Spirit woven through our past, informing the present path we are on, and lighting up the possibilities of what is yet to be. It allows us to see that we are part of something so much bigger than ourselves – the whole communion of saints.

Over the next week, I invite you to take some time to remember your own community of saints. Who were your teachers, your faith leaders, your mentors in life? Who were some past leaders and community supporters at Sunnybrook? As you do so, be mindful of the connections between the past, present, and future. Imagine how your mentors might cheer you on if they could see you now.
Peace and joy,
Nancy