On Nov 1 was "All Saints" Day. I basically couldn't find many people (my students that is) who could tell me much about how this holiday is celebrated in Slovakia. I suppose that there are some special masses celebrated that day. I was celebrating as well since it is a state holiday here - another day off of work! Speaking of state holidays - Slovakia has one of the highest number of state holidays in Europe! I love this place!
Anyways, I don't know how Catholics celebrate All Saints, but after reflecting a bit about the whole thing I think we could do well to celebrate this holiday.
Let me explain:
The Bible makes it clear that all believers are "saints". And I wouldn't be included in this long list of saints if those who had treaded the path before me hadn't showed me the way. My spiritual journey is not a journey alone. I've been introduced to the adventure by others who have marked out the trail so to speak. The road to heaven is narrow, but I imagine it's well worn and a bit rutty (is that a word?).
So how do we celebrate All Saints?
I don't know, but I think Hebrews 12:1-2 gives us some clues:
"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses (to see who they are read Hebrews 11), let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith...."
Consider and celebrate. Then run!
Anyways, I don't know how Catholics celebrate All Saints, but after reflecting a bit about the whole thing I think we could do well to celebrate this holiday.
Let me explain:
The Bible makes it clear that all believers are "saints". And I wouldn't be included in this long list of saints if those who had treaded the path before me hadn't showed me the way. My spiritual journey is not a journey alone. I've been introduced to the adventure by others who have marked out the trail so to speak. The road to heaven is narrow, but I imagine it's well worn and a bit rutty (is that a word?).
So how do we celebrate All Saints?
I don't know, but I think Hebrews 12:1-2 gives us some clues:
"Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses (to see who they are read Hebrews 11), let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith...."
Consider and celebrate. Then run!
