Over the years, I've become more aware of my mortality. The aches and pains of my body remind me of my aging. Also, the deaths of loved ones point me toward our ultimate destiny, to be with God forever and bask in God’s infinite love and peace.

As I contemplate the Communion of Saints, my saints continue to grow. This past year, my father and a good friend, Fr. Bradley Schaeffer, SJ, made their way home. While I have many saints waiting for my arrival, their presence consoles me and fills me with hope. As a child, I thought the Communion of Saints consisted of statues and pictures of saints that filled our church. Now I understand that is not the case. In my prayers these days, the Communion of Saints also includes my loved ones who have passed on before me. They are no longer physically with me but certainly with me in spirit. Those who die in love and with faith live in the hearts of those left behind.

From my many years living and walking with the Mexican community, I learned to celebrate All Saints and All Souls Day in a special way. They create altars for Dia de Los Muertos with pictures of their deceased loved ones and symbols of our faith. They often go to the cemetery to remember and celebrate with the favorite food and drink of their deceased loved ones.

I love All Saints and All Souls Day. I make an altar at home with their pictures and some symbols of faith. Like you, I remember and celebrate our loved ones now with God. I continue to ask for their help, for them to lead me, guide me, and strengthen me along the journey. Like you, their presence continues to fill my heart with peace and joy. We give thanks for the blessings of these saints who are with God and waiting for our arrival. May we celebrate All Saints and All Souls Day, remembering and giving thanks for our communion of saints.

Jim Gartland, SJ
Chief Mission Officer
Cristo Rey Network