All Saints Day

Every year, Emmanuel United Methodist Church joyfully celebrates All Saints Day on the first Sunday in November. This sacred occasion takes place during our regular Sunday morning service, where we come together as a community to honor and remember our beloved ‘saints’ who have passed away in the previous year. It is a moment of reflection and gratitude for the lives they lived and the impact they made on our congregation. In the spirit of togetherness, we extend a heartfelt invitation to the family members of the departed individuals, welcoming them back to Emmanuel with open arms. We encourage them to actively participate in the ceremony, ensuring their loved ones’ memories are cherished and their legacies endure. As a poignant symbol of remembrance, each saint is lovingly named, and a candle is lit, illuminating the sanctuary with their eternal light. The sweet chiming of a small bell resonates throughout the sacred space, enveloping us in a serene atmosphere that honors their lives and acknowledges their presence in our hearts. In the accompanying image, you can see the remarkable Ross family, who gathered together to commemorate their cherished loved one, Louise Sara Ross. Among the twelve esteemed saints we recognized on that sacred day, Louise’s memory shone brightly, reminding us of the profound impact she had on our church community. Due to the unfortunate circumstances of the pandemic, our cherished ceremony was not held since 2019. However, with renewed hope and resilience, we eagerly await the opportunity to gather once again and celebrate the lives of our beloved ‘saints.’ Following the service, we come together as one family to share a heartfelt dinner. This communal meal serves as a time to connect, share stories, and find solace in the presence of one another. It is an occasion filled with love, compassion, and a deep sense of unity. Join us on this special day as we remember, honor, and celebrate the lives of our departed ‘saints.’ Let us come together as a community, embracing the profound impact they had on our journey of faith. Together, we will create an atmosphere of love, remembrance, and gratitude that will forever echo within the halls of Emmanuel United Methodist Church.