THE COMMUNION OF SAINTS

This past Tuesday was the Feast of All Saints. I’m really not sure who this feast celebrates so I turned to the internet for some help. Wikipedia gave two explanations. One has to do with those people who have reached heaven, the other with those who are in purgatory awaiting the gates of heaven to open for them. A Catholic website explained that the feast originally was instituted to honor martyrs but nowadays honors all saints, both obscure and famous.

Terry and I attended Mass that evening at our local parish, St. Luke’s. Father Bill Burns began his short homily with the words, “Welcome all saints. Happy feast day.” Looking around the church, I realized that if those in attendance were saints, then looking tired, old and faithful must be the keys to sainthood.

I know I’m being cynical but I do think the term ‘saint’ can be misleading. Sainthood is reserved for those who have completed exemplary lives in the same way that the Hockey Hall of Fame is reserved for players who have had outstanding careers. Yet, do we really have to wait until their careers are over to appreciate great athletes like Sidney Crosby or Alexander Ovechkin?

Over the past few months, I have seen my share of superstars and saints including the nurses and doctors at North York and all the folks who keep sending their prayers and good wishes to me via letters and e-mails.

I do think Father Bill had it right. The world is filled with such good people. It’s just that they don’t usually make the headlines. Last week for example, I received a mass intention from a former teaching colleague, Mike McSharry, who now resides in Quebec; a CD that a classmate from the 60’s, Peter D’Amico, had recorded; and a friendly e-mail from Magno Yu, a Brebeuf grad from 2000 who now lives and works in New York City with his wife and three month old son, Aidan. In addition last week, my cousin Margaret Ann continued sending me inspirational videos and notes while my pal Ermes kept me busy with a potpourri of funny stories. Last night, I also received a kind e-mail from Michael Serapio, CBC newscaster and Brebeuf alumnus, who was the mystery man behind my Rick Mercer tickets.

Indeed, this is a snapshot of my communion of saints and I am forever grateful for their support. I continue to be lifted up on the shoulders of others who teach me what compassion and charity are all about.