I
was raised in the Roman Catholic tradition. Saints were persons who lived long
ago and were more legend than real. Later in life, I learned a different
understanding of a “saint.” Reading the New Testament letters from the apostles
I realized the author was addressing his thoughts to the saints in Corinth, or
in Thessalonica, or the various other Mediterranean cities where the church was
born during the first century. My vocational
education taught me a saint was, “one who was set apart.” The life of a saint
is a life set apart to be an instrument of God (regardless if they are aware or
not.)
To
me, my mother was a saint, Santa Rita. This post could not contain all the
reasons why but suffice it say in the midst of life, often turbulent and
chaotic, she was a person of peace, humility, strength, and stability. Her life
continues to be an inspiration and guide post to me as I navigate my way
through marriage, parenthood, and simple daily life. I recall her memory and
remember how little she needed to be happy and content, and how able she was to
endure other’s sadness and malcontent.
Saint
Francis was known to me from my earliest memories. It was the name of the
church in which I was raised and later the name of the elementary and junior
High School I would attend. The life of Francis left an indelible impression
upon me. His counter-cultural life style. His joyful living while needing very
little. His coming upon the ruins of an abandoned church and restoring it to
host a vibrant community. My own temperament finds a soul friend in the life of
Francis of Assisi known best for the prayer, “Lord, Make Me an Instrument of
Peace…”
Our
faith teaches us, we do not walk alone but we are accompanied by “a cloud of
witnesses.” They have walked before us and they now walk with us. Though they
are unseen, they have left us the gospel of their lives directing us along our
own path of a life lived well.
On
All Saints Day, Nov. 1, remember a saint of the church who has been a light and
guide for you. On All Soul’s day, Nov. 2, remember a saint who walked with you
in your life and whose prayers continue to guide and guard you from the
invisible world. My candles will burn for Francis and Rita.
Fr.
Richard
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