On November 1, Christians around the world celebrate All Saints Day. On this day, we remember those who have died before us, not just those who are officially called “Saint George” or “Saint Joan” but all the children of God. Each country has its own traditions, but each one reminds us to celebrate the stories of the Saints and the hope we have in the resurrection, that one day all the brokenness, sadness, and even death, will be undone.
All Saints Day was first recorded in 4th century Greece. The Greek Christians held a festival for the martyrs, those who died because they believed in Jesus. In 835, Pope Gregory IV made All Saints Day an authorized holiday in the Catholic Church. It has continued ever since.
In Poland, Christians leave candles by the graves of their relatives. In Hungary, they leave all of the lights on to welcome the Saints. Italians eat a meal graveside to remember those who have died, remembering past meals they have shared. In France, people decorate cemeteries with lots of chrysanthemums, big colorful flowers to honor those buried there. In India, Christians hang up flower wreaths and display colorful bouquets.
Perhaps the most well-known celebrations of All Saints Day are held in Mexico. Families build Ofrendas, altars with photos, candles, flowers, even things that were special to their relatives. Stores sell candy skulls and coffins, and these things are not seen as bad or scary, because they remind us that death is a natural part of life. Marigolds, cheerful orange blooms, are strewn all over for their bright color and strong scent.
All Saints Day is an important day because those who have died are not forgotten. We miss them often, but on this day, we, as a church, remember them and their stories. And we remember that God promises that they will be raised again and are with Jesus. In one of the readings for All Saints Day, John writes,
“THEY SHALL HUNGER NO MORE, NEITHER THIRST ANY MORE; THE SUN SHALL NOT STRIKE THEM, NOR ANY SCORCHING HEAT. FOR THE LAMB IN THE MIDST OF THE THRONE WILL BE THEIR SHEPHERD, AND HE WILL GUIDE THEM TO SPRINGS OF LIVING WATER, AND GOD WILL WIPE AWAY EVERY TEAR FROM THEIR EYES.”
Someday, all the sadness and brokenness and even death will be made right. We have that hope because of Jesus and we can remember that today.
