Solemnity of All Saints

What we shall be has not yet been revealed. We do know that when it is revealed, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is.

This feast began as a way of acknowledging all those who had shed their blood for the faith. Today, it celebrates all those who are in glory in heaven. As the opening prayer states, “We rejoice in the holy men and women of every time and place.” The prayers over the gifts and at communion speak of the glory of all the saints in which all the blessed share. It is that glory that we hope to be ours one day and that the gospel passage cited above alludes to.

The communion prayer also makes reference to the table of the Eucharist and the “joy of the kingdom where Jesus is Lord forever and ever.” Our faith reminds us that we pass from the table of the Eucharist to the eternal banquet that awaits us in heaven, a journey we share with the saints. As Saint Bernard tells us, “If we venerate their memory, it serves us, not them…. When I think of them, I am inflamed by a tremendous yearning. Calling the saints to mind inspires, or rather arouses in us, above all else, a longing to join their company.” This shared journey and unity with the saints is a source of comfort and strength.

The feast thus gives us role models urging us to become more Christ-like in all our actions, as we are deeply inspired by our brothers and sisters who have gone before us and now enjoy the bliss promised us by Jesus. To repeat the gospel passage above, “What we shall be has not yet been revealed. We do know that when it is revealed, we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is.” That is our hope, and we have the powerful example of so many in the faith who have shown us the way, transforming our lives and actions.

How does the example of the saints inspire you to live a more Christ-like life?

Let Us Pray:

O Jesus, help me to live my faith consciously each day. May I be inspired by the example of so many of my sisters and brothers who have gone before me?