This last week we entered the month of November. In the Church there are two days that start out November. The first is the Holy Day
of All Saints. This is a day that we can call to mind so many wonderful examples of those who have followed God’s will with their lives.
When we think of all the saints, we should be encouraged by how different their lives and examples have been. It should be a hope for
all of us that we too can become saints. Sadly, our culture has put more focus on the night before and going door to door.

The second, but similar, day is All Souls Day. It is here that we can call to mind in a special way all of our family and friends who have
gone before us. In October we had the book of the dead out in the gathering area to write down the names of those who have died. This
is a way to remember them, I know as I get older my list of people gets longer and longer. Even if you don’t write their name in the Book
of the Dead, this book is displayed in front of the Altar during the month of November. I know when we have lost someone close to us,
many times can be hard as we grieve. Maybe their birthday, our anniversary, the date of death, each of these can trigger memories for us.
Some are good and make us smile, some still trigger our grief and pain. As you see the Book of the Dead before the altar, may it remind
you that you are not alone in your loss. So many of us have lost someone close to us and we know that pain.

One of the many that I hold in my heart is Sheila. Sheila was my 8th grade English teacher (please do not blame her for my poor writing
skills, she tried) who had my niece in her class 25 years later. After my brother informed me that his daughter had this former teacher of
mine, and that she still had Christmas ornaments that I made her, and they still go on her tree every year. I went to see Sheila and we
reconnected and became friends. I did not know at that time, as I was preparing for ordination, that this friendship would only last 12
years and that she would ask me to preside at her funeral. She was only 66 when she passed. Days before she passed, I made the journey
down to the cities for what would be our last visit. It was a surprise to her, and I believe it meant a lot to both of us. Funny moment was
when the priest came in to anoint her and she was holding the hand of a priest. I looked at him and said, “I got this one!” I felt sorry he
got called in, but they did not know I was coming. Something I asked Sheila that I will never forget, was if she would be my Guardian
Angel. 4 days later she passed on the Feast of Holy Guardian Angels.

Death can destroy much, but it cannot destroy love. My love for my mother is still going strong. My love for Sheila as well . I am sure
many of you still feel that love for those who have gone before us. During this month of November, take some special time to reflect and
remember.

Blessings,
Fr Backer