All Saints' Day is a special day in the life of the church that is not as well known as some of the other holidays. It can be somewhat misunderstood because of the reference to saints. While Methodists do not venerate saints, nor do we elect or pray to saints, we do recognize the influence and contributions of those whose lives have been admirably dedicated to God. The apostle Paul offers several definitions of saints and John Wesley identifies All Saints’ Day as one of the festivals that he truly loved.
In his journal, John Wesley included several entries on November 1 in several years (I.e., 1767, 1788 and 1789) referencing his appreciation of All Saints' Day. John Wesley was especially appreciative of the foundations of faith that had been modeled by his parents, but also other examples of tireless servants of God, who had labored for the sake of the Gospel.
One of Paul’s most convincing definitions of a saint was included in 1 Corinthians in which he defined a saint as a person who was set aside and made holy by Christ. Paul continues by specifying that “we are called to be saints together with all those who in every place call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Corinthians 1:2).
The term saints isn’t restricted to the New Testament; it is also included in both the Psalms—“all you His saints” (31:23) and the book of Daniel—“saints of the Most High” (7:27).
The observance of All Saints’ Day focuses upon those who have died in the past year and in most congregations, the names of the members of the congregation are called and the bell is tolled. However, just as the original focus of the observances was broadened to include more than just martyrs, observances included both known and unknown saints. Similarly, some congregations will recognize those who have died who were not necessarily members of the local church.
The faithful journey of the saints who have now joined the church victorious are remembered as they join the great cloud of witnesses. Their lives are examples not only for members of their family and members of the congregation. Many of the saints are fondly remembered because of the broad array of lives that have been inspired by their witness.
We will sing the songs of faith to remember and celebrate all the saints. As the saints go marching in, we are also made aware of our mortality. There is a place prepared for all the saints of God. Jesus promises to return to lead us to that place. May we remember and rejoice over all the saints in glory.
In Christ,
Jon McCoy
