As the year begins to darken and nature grows still, we are gently reminded of the frailty and brevity of human life. The Church invites us not to avoid the thought of death, but to face it with faith, trust, and hope. Throughout November, we honour the saints who now live in God’s presence, while also praying for the departed who still need our intercession. In this act of remembrance, we affirm that we belong to one spiritual family, the communion of saints, bound together in a love that does not end. Christian hope assures us that love is stronger than death, giving us strength even in seasons of loss. Jesus proclaims, “I am the resurrection and the life” (John 11:25), offering us the promise of life beyond the grave. The saints whose lives we revisit throughout the year show us that holiness is possible for ordinary people who place God at the centre of everything. Their example teaches us that death is not a final page, but the opening of a new chapter with Christ.
As the liturgical year closes and the feast of Christ the King approaches, we are reminded to live each day in the light of eternity, with hearts full of gratitude and purpose. St Paul urges us to persevere, assuring us that nothing done for God is ever wasted. Although the Jubilee of Hope nears its conclusion, the call to live in hope continues, pointing us toward the day we will meet the One who loves us endlessly. With the Psalmist we pray for the wisdom to “number our days” (Psalm 90:12) so that we may walk as pilgrims of hope, ready to enter the eternal feast when the Bridegroom calls.
