On Saturday November 4
th, we gather for our annual Memorial Mass at 4:00 P.M. We have invited all those who buried a loved one from our parish to join with our community to support them and to remember those members of our community who have died this past year. We schedule this Mass the first weekend of November because it is the time we remember “All Saints” and “All Souls.”
That word “remember” is very important. Re-member is to put back together again. The opposite of re-member is to dis-member, to take apart. As a community of faith, we re-member those who have journeyed with us and touched our lives in so very many ways. Telling the stories of their lives helps them to continue to cherish all they have been to us and give thanks for the gift of their lives to us.
We all see many Halloween decorations this time of year, and often they focus on the macabre, the scary, frightening and chilling. As Catholics, we believe that when we die, life is not ended, but merely changed. We enter into a new and wonderful relationship promised us by Jesus Christ. Some fear death. However, as faithful Disciples of Jesus Christ, we should welcome the gift of everlasting life.
When I pray I always invite my deceased family members and mentors into my prayer circle, so I am never praying alone, they are right there with me so that “two or more are gathered in Jesus’ name” even when I am praying alone.
An annual Memorial Mass on the Anniversary of a loved one’s death is a great way to gather family members together and share stories of the events of life as we continue our own faith journey. Some come forward and light a candle in memory of a loved one remembering that their life shines brightly in our hearts. The votive candles under the Blessed Mother and St. Joseph are a wonderful way to remember a loved one and keep their faith burning brightly.
Join us next Saturday as we re-member, and come and remember your loved ones as we journey as a community of faith with Catholics throughout the world!