All Saint’s Day began as a way to mark the anniversaries of he deaths of martyrs. Over the centuries All Saint’s Day evolved to an opportunity to honor all the saints, remembered and forgotten, known and unknown.  All Saint’s Day is normally observed on November 1 as a time to give thanks for members of the community of faith who have died the past year and pray that we maybe counted among the company of the faithful in God’s eternal realm. ( adapted from Book of Common Worship)

Over 743,000 people have died from COVID. On this occasion of the remembrance of the saints, let us remember also those who have died from this pandemic.

Almighty God, you have knit together your elect in one communion and fellowship in the mystical body of your Son, Christ our Lord. On this day we remember all whom we loved, those who we knew, those who were unknown to us, who have passed from this life to life eternal.  Grief and sorrow at times mark those memories and yet there is also joy and peace.

Lord God, Heal the wounds of sorrow and renew our trust in your goodness.  We lift to you the names of those whom we have lost this last year and throughout the Pandemic.  Assure us that not even death can separate us from your infinite mercy. Comfort us in our sadness. Renew our strength each day to seek your will and lean upon your mercy. Keep us ever in the communion of saints and in the promise of life eternal, through Christ our Lord. Amen.