ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
November 1, 2026
Today marks one of those “interesting” days in the life of the church. It’s All Saints’ Sunday, a time to honor all the saints, both past and present. However, at Cypress Creek Christian Church, we take a few minutes during our worship services to remember and acknowledge those connected to our community who have passed away over the past year. It is meaningful for families and friends who are feeling the weight of grief, but I am fascinated by how many times a visitor, maybe even a first-time visitor, has commented about the power of the experience. They didn’t know a single name spoken, yet they felt something. Four or five years ago, one of those visitors said to me after worship, “After each name, a bell rang, and it was as if it was God saying, ‘Yes, she is right here with me.’” I found that to be beautiful, affirming, and full of hope. In a culture that seems fine with ignoring or running away from grief or anything that resembles something other than a mild case of sadness, it is good to be a part of a faith community that invites people, in the context of worship, to be fully present with grief and loss. It allows people to see grief as a God-given gift for those on the journey to healing. Today, I give thanks for saints and those who gather to honor the saints with honesty and hope.
God of Life and Love, we open ourselves to your leading as we walk important journeys, including the often painful and challenging work of grieving the loss of those dear to us. Amen.
