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Once, a few years back, I was sitting with an IHM Sister who was mourning the loss of her younger sister, who also happened to be in our IHM Congregation. As you can imagine, having your natural sister with you in religious life creates a strong and unique bond. It was deep loss for her. As we sat and shared, she mused the question: Where are all those who have gone before us? Where are the millions of souls who have passed on? Our conversation led us to a simple truth: the souls are with God, and God is with us, and so, those we love are always with us, always.
As autumn moves us through a world of reds and golds to the growing dark and cold of winter, the Catholic Church invites its faithful to enter into the Month of the Holy Souls. Each November, we are called to embark on a meaningful journey of remembrance, where heartfelt prayers and collective acts of love become a powerful tribute to those we have lost. This sacred season not only deepens our individual spiritual journeys, but also cultivates a vibrant sense of community, uniting us in our solemn duty to honor those who have departed from this earth. With a prayerful focus on those souls in purgatory, let us find inspiration in this sacred time, reigniting our commitment to love, remember, and lift in prayer those who have touched our lives as they await full communion with our God.
I am reminded of this when I hear and sing the hymn, Saints and Beloved of God, by Dan Schutte. The refrain brings comfort to those who sing: "In every place and time, the blessed walk among us. There's a mighty throng that stands by our side, the saints and beloved of God."
May Mary, Our Mother, intercede with her Son for peace throughout our world.
Blessings,
Sister Mary Sue
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