COMMUNION OF SAINTS

Since taking a Bible class several years ago that also studied essential teachings and doctrines of the Christian faith, communion has never been the same for me. All my life I had repeated the Apostles’ Creed with its phrase: "I believe in the communion of saints." But I found during this class that my understanding of "saints" and "communion of saints" needed to be expanded.

My perception of saints was of those extraordinary individuals who have done miraculous things, who have performed spectacular miracles. It is difficult to identify with that group of individuals. My new understanding included those who strive to be faithful, strive to be devout adherents to the word, strive to intentionally devote their time to their relationship with God, strive to love unconditionally and to yield their will to God. These are people I know. These people have lit the path of my faith journey, helping me grow in faith by their knowledge of the word or by their example.

"Communion of saints" includes the body of Christ working in the world today and those who have gone before. Now, I kneel at the communion rail thankful for God's great gift of sacrificial love, realizing that those around the world are with us, as well as those saints who have gone before. Now I know that I am surrounded by many others, including my parents, my grandparents, Aunt Jamie, Charles Jr., Sara and Uncle Henry. This expands the experience of Jesus' death and resurrection and is a new celebration of eternal life. For me it makes all of the difference in the world.

— Carole Yoho

Courtesy of The Church of the Good Shepherd United Methodist