A Note From Fr. LeRoy
The beginning of November marks two very important liturgical dates on our church's calendar year: All Saints Day on November 1st and All Souls on November 2nd. Both these dates help us recall those who have gone before us marked with the sign of faith. All Saints reminds us of those who are now experiencing heavenly bliss while All Souls reminds us of those who still await the fulfillment of their faith through God's work in a purifying process. As members of the Body of Christ we are still united with those who have died. As Christians and as Catholics we believe the ties that bind us together continue on even through death within the Communion of Saints. The Communion of Saints includes the Church Suffering (those in Purgatory), the Church Militant (those still here on earth) and the Church Triumphant (those in heaven). November is a good time to remember past members of our "Together As One" ACC parishes who have lived their faith in Jesus Christ. Many members of our parishes have lived very saintly lives and so we can be confident that they enjoy the fruits of their labors in heaven, while others may still be striving to reach their final goal as they are being cleansed of the residual effects of sin and so they need our prayers.
Usually the weekend before or the weekend following most parishes do something to honor those who have died this past year and left us. Often candles are lit in their honor, sometimes names of the deceased are read, at other times a special prayer is said. It would be good for all of us to say a special prayer on these days.
Because All Saints Day (Nov. 1st) falls on Monday this year and is so close to our regular Sunday obligation, this year it is not a Holy Day of Obligation, and yet it is still a holy day that I would encourage all to attend. This year our ACC All Saints Day Mass will be held at St. Michael's Church Monday evening at 6:30 pm.
As members of the Body of Christ lets remember those who have died, not just this past year, but all those who have been an important part of life and have known so well. May we carry on and continue their great work in Christ! "Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord." "And may perpetual light shine upon them!"
Fr. LeRoy Scheierl
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