November 1st is All Saints’ Day.
I admit, I haven’t really recognized this day in the past, or been in churches who recognized it. But we’ve lost so much this year. We’ve lost members of our church family whom we couldn’t come together to mourn due to necessary safety precautions. We’ve had to change how we live and rethink gatherings with friends and perhaps even family as we consider how to stay safe with masks, or distancing, or using outside venues.
Family and friends have succumbed to death in this pandemic, millions have lost economic security through loss of jobs, some have
lost businesses they built over a lifetime. Most of us have lost at least some part of our beloved rhythms of life that felt familiar and gave our lives richness.
And we can name so many losses related to hatred and violence.With election day coming up, the political climate has become more and more divided.
So, we have two opportunities coming up:
1. On Sunday, November 1st, come to church (or watch on Facebook later in the day) as we acknowledge those we have lost, and spend a moment to celebrate their lives. And if you’re coming to church, don’t forget that we gain an hour! Clocks get set back an hour on Saturday night.
2. On Wednesday, November 4th at 6 p.m., faith leaders in McLean County are joining together for a virtual Prayer Vigil with prayers, songs, and scriptures to point us to peace and unity. All are welcome: join at www.wesley-umc.com/2020/10/prayer-vigil/
Blessings and Peace,
~Pastor Annie
Pastor Annie McMillan