Glory, Glory, Hallelujah!

This is the week of the year when some Christians feel it is necessary to make narky comments – and worse – about Hallowe’en and the whole “trick or treat” thing. I am a recovering Hallowe’en critic, but now I just let the whole thing slide by.

On the other hand, I find it fascinating how we have let one of the great opportunities for the church to pass unmarked. This is a weekend to reflect upon the saints of the whole Church and our own lives, and to celebrate the gifts they have brought.

This Sunday, the first day of November, is All Saints Day.

In the more traditional avenues of the Church there are saints days (those who are “hallowed”) for almost every day of the year; they come from the long distant past like St. Nicholas, St, Francis of Assisi, St. Hildegard of Bingen and even St. Valentine, and the more recent, lower-case, saints like the Wesley brothers, Florence Nightingale, Christina Rosetti, Dietrich Bonhoeffer and Oscar Romero (did someone shout “Bingo!”?)

These are people whose immense faith was realised in extraordinary moments of courage, discipleship, worship, beauty, prayer, prophetic action and mission. Their stories echo down the years to us now, as we find our way in the world.

All Saints Day has an echo close to us as well. There are saints who have blessed and forgiven, cajoled and challenged us in our own lives.

Russell was the first youth minister I met. He was responsible for the large youth group to which I belonged, and his humble, gracious ministry was full of integrity. When Russell made mistakes, he admitted them, sought forgiveness and moved on. When I was wrestling with my faith, his gentle wisdom was exactly what I needed. Almost four decades later, I can give thanks for this saint.

Pat was a handful from our first meeting; her physical disability was a challenge for her and, as she became a member of our faith community, her disability asked rigorous questions of us. How do we care for those less able? How do we offer access to ministry, to leadership, to justice for those who are differently able? Sometimes she annoyed me – and others – but mostly she challenged me to be more faithful. Pat’s death grieved us all, as we lost the voice of a prophet.

Pat’s ability to deflate my pretension was as critical to me as Russell’s humble leadership. Two of the saints, called and gifted by God in my life and the lives of many others.

Consider the saints you have met, however briefly. Remember how they have mediated the presence of Christ to you. On this weekend, most especially, give thanks for their life and ministry, for the grace of God working through them. And, if you have the opportunity to thank them directly, do so. It’s a wonderful gift to give.