...is the recognition that the deep connections we long for are already there, that we are connected in God with our loved ones who know this fully, that we on earth are only a small part of that community of the friends of God who have gone before us.
Sr. Rachel Hosmer, OSH, used to talk about "the roof of the church blowing open" at the Sanctus, as we join 'with angels and archangels and all the company of heaven...' Angels are somewhat a mystery to me, which may be just as well, since the biblical angels almost always start the conversation by telling the humans not to be afraid. But "all the company of heaven" -- family, loved ones, beloved teachers and coaches and healers; brave martyrs and witnesses; holy men and women from all time; wise ones from every tradition and nation and language; all holding us as we trudge on.
This I think I DO know: they live on; they live on in power and joy; and there is a connection. I love to hear stories of moments when the space we feel between this world and the next got really thin, when wives sensed their husbands, children sensed a grandparent, others their mothers or fathers.
So this week we celebrate all the saints: not just the MVP types, but all the saints, and the God who holds us all in connection.
We have new parking-lot stripes, and a much tidier parking lot, thanks to the men who came for Clean-Up Day: here are pictures of some of the work crew (and the stripes).
What's up this week:
Tuesday, 11/1: 1:00 PM Seniors' Generational Conversation
7:30 PM Vestry
Wednesday, 11/2 7:30 PM Adult Education: Embracing Emergence
Sunday, 11/6: All Saints' Day (transferred)
10:00 Children's Chapel, Teen/Tween Group, Family Eucharist
with Memorial Thanksgiving for our beloved ones 11:30 Young Adult Generational Conversation, Confirmation Group
