The Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed (All Souls)
Justice is a word used a lot around this time of year as we are in the midst of election season. Today, the word and especially the concept of justice appears throughout the readings. “The souls of the just are in the hands of God.” For some of us, the word “just” might seem out of place. When I stand with families who have lost someone close, many the words they speak is that the death was unfair. Indeed in our grieving, especially when a death has been recent, the loss can feel very unjust. One might question, why did God take my friend, my spouse, my parent, my sibling, or my child? There are, of course, no easy answers to these questions. Also, the answers that some people feel called to give are often of little consolation. One can understand intellectually that their loved one is in a better place, but in their hearts they long for their continued presence here and now.
The gut wrenching nature of loss can cause a rollercoaster of emotional reactions. Again, for those grieving, St. Paul’s letter to the Romans may seem cerebral. For if we have grown into union with Jesus through death then we will be united with Christ in the resurrection. While helpful, these theological verses may not leave us completely warm and fuzzy inside. The gospel seems more personal as it is Jesus who reminds us that all who believe in him will have eternal life. This can help us better understand that death is one part of a process that transitions us from one part of life to another. Even now, look how that pattern is imprinted in the very veins of nature herself. Leaves die and fall to the ground so that the tree can remain in its tomb only to bring forth new life again.
Recognizing new life in the midst of death can seem unthinkable. Yet slowly and sometimes imperceptibly, the shoots of new life spring forth and the cycle works toward resurrecting our spirits. Rooted in an ancient Christian tradition that dates back to the second century, today’s feast is one way to honor our loved ones and to remember that they are with God. Although physically they are not present, their presence is as close as a prayer. In our Eucharistic celebrations, the entire community of faith is gathered, both the living and the dead. We all come together to give God our thanks and praise.
"Lord, help us to understand and believe fully, that even if we are wandering in the valley of death, you are at our side. Then Lord, Your presence will be our comfort and our hope and we will know our loved ones are in your hands."
- Deacon Michael Montgomery