Friday, November 1, 2002
All Saints Day
1st Reading: Rev 7:2-4, 9-14
2nd Reading: 1 Jn 3:1-3
Gospel: Mt 5:1-12
When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain. He sat down and his disciples gathered around him. Then he spoke and began to teach them:
Fortunate are those who have the spirit of the poor, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Fortunate are those who mourn, they shall be comforted.
Fortunate are the gentle, they shall possess the land.
Fortunate are those who hunger and thirst for justice, for they shall be satisfied.
Fortunate are the merciful, for they shall find mercy.
Fortunate are those with a pure heart, for they shall see God.
Fortunate are those who work for peace, they shall be called children of God.
Fortunate are those who are persecuted for the cause of justice, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Fortunate are you, when people insult you and persecute you and speak all kinds of evil against you because you are my followers. Be glad and joyful, for a great reward is kept for you in God. This is how this people persecuted the prophets who lived before you.
Commentary
One of the saints we celebrate today is a little old lady who lived in the house at the corner of my street. And my grandfather. And many more whose names we don't even know. They have passed through this world making almost no noise, yet serving their brothers and sisters. They are the most important bricks in the construction of the Heavenly Kingdom. They are saints because they opened their hearts and received God's grace and love, and they knew how to share them with others. Community, friendship, family, God's Kingdom, all formed around them. Thanks to them, faith has reached us and is alive in our history.