The Communion of Saints
February 18th, 2007 by Joe
Today is my (deceased) Dad’s 86th birthday. I’m going to Mass with my Mom and then out to eat to celebrate Dad’s life. I think of him often and have many dreams about him (he passed away nearly 10 years ago). I find great comfort in the Catholic understanding of the Communion of Saints and I feel my Dad’s presence in my life in an ongoing way.
I think that the Communion of Saints is a wonderful teaching to pass on to our students. We should ask them about loved ones who have passed away and, when leading prayer, mention that we will include them in our prayers, knowing that they are with us, that they can help us, and that we can help them.
Kathy Says
Thank you for writing this Joe. What a wonderful way to teach the children about keeping our loved ones alive in our hearts. Your timing has special meaning to me as tomorrow is the one year anniversary of my mother’s passing.
Feb 18th, 2007 at 11:50 am
Lauretta Says
I find this belief in the Communion of the Saints very comforting and never morbid if understood correctly. We haven’t lost our loved ones. They are still with us, just in a different form. We can still communicate! I know I sometimes ask for my late mother to interceed for me. I know she is listening. I often feel her presence in my life. I think the best time to talk about this with our students is during the whole month of November. Beginning with all Saints Day and All Soul’s Day, we pray and remember those gone before us for the whole month.
Feb 18th, 2007 at 12:54 pm
Joe Says
Kathy and Lauretta, thanks for your thoughtful comments!
Feb 18th, 2007 at 5:01 pm