On November 1, many Western Christians observe All Saints Day. Some groups will focus on those who have died, but there is considerable variety in this practice. When I think of saints, I think of all of the saints, Latter-day and otherwise, who have been part of my spiritual life and people who have been part of my church experiences. Sometimes those two categories overlap, but not always. I consider all of them to be saints.

Saints are a large and diverse group in society. The experiences of being saints are all different and there is no singular experience of being a saint that all saints share. In each of our cultural contexts there are probably some social expectations of what a saint is supposed to be. In every community, those expectations are probably a little bit different. If you are a saint, you have perhaps felt at times that you were not able to meet that ideal, that your community defined sainthood in a way that did not entirely describe you. At the same time, our communities often rely on the labor of many saints to hold them together, but that labor is often expected and not always appreciated.

Let’s take some time to reflect on the gifts and labor of saints in our communities.

Close your eyes. Take three deep breaths.

Think of a saint who has inspired you. Pause for a breath. Picture this saint in your mind. Pause for a breath. What did this person do for you? Pause for a breath. How did this person’s humanity and gifts inspire you? Pause for a breath. What words of affirmation or gratitude would you offer this person if you could speak to them now?

Pause for three breaths.

Think of a saint who has challenged you to be a better person. Pause for a breath. Picture this saint in your mind. Pause for a breath. What did this person do for you? Pause for a breath. How did this person’s humanity and gifts move you to change? Pause for a breath. What words of affirmation or gratitude would you offer this person if you could speak to them now?

Pause for three breaths.

Think of a saint who has loved you. Pause for a breath. Picture this person in your mind. Pause for a breath. What did this person do for you that showed love? Pause for a breath. How did this love impact you? Pause for a breath. What words of affirmation or gratitude would you offer this person if you could speak to them now?

Pause for three breaths.

Thank you for sharing in this practice of remembering saints. As you move through your week, I invite you to remember these three saints. If you are able, consider sharing your words of gratitude and affirmation with them.