It already looks as if November will be as expected, wet, windy and the kind of weather that mirrors our liturgical time of remembrance and prayer for the faithful departed. The falling leaves mirror the cycle of life and death. As always, Jesus Christ guides us to places where He has already gone Himself. That is the hope of our Christian remembrance and Christian prayer. Beginning on this Saturday Nov. 2nd, we will remember and pray for those who have died with reverence and love. We remember as a Christian people reassured by a new and eternal life for those who have died and Christian hope for the bereaved. Death is not a distressing fracture but a continuity of life into eternal life. May all who have died rest in the peace of the Lord. Lord God, Whose days are without end and whose mercies beyond counting, Keep us mindful that life is short and the hour of death unknown. Let your spirit guide our days on earth and in the ways of holiness and justice, That we may serve you in union with the whole church, Sure in faith, strong in hope, perfect in love. And when our earthly journey is ended, Lead us rejoicing into your kingdom, Where you live forever and ever, Amen. (Order of Christian Funerals 332) Fr. Michael