This term we will be learning about the Communion of Saints in our classes. The community of all members of the Church, both those now living and the saints in heaven, is one of the distinguishing beliefs of the Catholic Church. This belief is generally referred to as ‘the Communion of Saints’. In this sense ‘saints’ does not mean simply those officially canonised by the Church whose feast days are celebrated in the Church calendar, but all those who are with God in heaven. This ‘communion’ also includes those who have died and are undergoing purification before entering into the fullness of life with God. 

The belief in the Communion of Saints, understood as a great family of all those who have responded to Christ’s grace, both those now living and those who have ‘gone before’, helps Catholics place in perspective questions about the meaning and purpose of life and death. They understand that life itself is the gift of a gracious Creator, and that each human being is made in ‘the image and likeness’ of God. This means that human life has a tapu – sanctity, that extends from its beginning to its inevitable end.

Now could be a good time for your family to spend some time together looking at old photographs and talking about loved ones who have passed away. As members of the Communion of Saints, we can continue to pray for those in heaven and those who are preparing to be with God.