In this month of November, as we reflect on the "Last Things," we have already explored the Church's teachings on Heaven, Hell, and Purgatory. This week, we turn to the Catholic doctrine of the Communion of Saints, which we celebrate annually at the start of the month with All Saints and All Souls Days. The Communion of Saints is a foundational teaching that expresses our belief that the bonds of love and affection which knit us in together in life do not unravel with death. We are united not only with each other here on earth but also with those who have gone before us, both those who are still being purified and those who are already in Heaven.

The Catechism (CCC 946) describes the Communion of Saints as the “assembly of all the saints”—all those who, in Christ, belong to God’s family. This communion includes the Church on earth, the souls in Purgatory, and the saints in Heaven. Together, these groups form what the Church traditionally calls the Church Militant, the Church Penitent, and the Church Triumphant. Although we might think of these as separate groups, they reflect a profound unity: every member of the Church contributes to the whole, drawing us closer to Christ and to each other in love and mutual support.

The term "Church Militant," which refers to believers on earth, sometimes raises questions. The expression “militant” does not mean “belligerent” or “combative.” Rather, it acknowledges the reality that life on earth involves spiritual struggles and the need to bring God's light into a world often shadowed by sin and suffering. As the Church Militant, we’re called to share the Good News with humility, perseverance, and love, despite whatever challenges we may face.
In these struggles, we draw inspiration and strength from the saints who lived faithful lives on earth and now intercede for us in Heaven. The saints, however, do not replace Christ’s role as our one mediator with the Father. When we ask for their intercession, we are asking them to join us in prayer to Christ. Pope Francis explained it well: the saints help us grow closer to Christ, but they do not substitute for Him. Their prayers flow from their love for God and are offered in unity with His will.

Our belief in the Communion of Saints isn’t just theological; it’s living and practical. One important way we live it out is through our support of Christians worldwide. From its earliest days, the Church has shown care for the faithful in need. For example, the early Church organized collections to support the Christian community in Jerusalem, whom they called “the saints in Jerusalem.” Today, our support for Christians in the Holy Land continues this tradition and shows that our faith connects us across miles and cultures.

This past year has brought difficult times for Christians in the Holy Land, following the violence and displacement resulting from the tragic events of October 7, 2023. Palestinian Christians, along with others in the region, face both physical and spiritual hardships. At a recent meeting of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre, I heard updates on these challenges. Many wonder why Catholic schools are a focus of our support there. The Cardinal Patriarch of Jerusalem shared that while hundreds of international organizations provide food and medical aid, only the Equestrian Order supports schools.

Catholic schools in the Holy Land are beacons of hope, serving both Christian and Muslim communities, and provide not only education but also jobs and a supportive network. The Cardinal emphasized that recovery will be a long process once peace returns. In the Palestinian West Bank, places like Nazareth and Bethlehem, unemployment has reached 60%. Catholic schools provide jobs that help families and strengthen communities. They’re part of the social support network that gives people stability and hope in very difficult times.
Our parish has been contributing to this mission by helping to fund a classroom in a Catholic school in the Holy Land. This is more than charity—it’s a living expression of the Communion of Saints, where our generosity here strengthens the faith and hope of our brothers and sisters there. These schools teach not only academics but also peace and mutual respect, creating a foundation for young people in an uncertain world.

Thank you to all who have supported these efforts. If you feel called to participate further, I encourage you to consider joining us. Our shared faith unites us across time and distance, reminding us that we are all connected in Christ. In the Communion of Saints, we are never alone; we are part of a family that spans earth and heaven. Together, may we continue to live out this sacred unity, bearing witness to the love of Christ in our world.