From the Rector: All Hallows Blessings

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30 OCTOBER 2024

We have a truly wonderful weekend ahead of us, and personally, All Hallows-tide is one of my favorite times of the year. I have never understood those Christians who attack Halloween, for I have always understood it as an opportunity to mock death with costumes and frivolity. In its truest sense, Halloween is simply the Eve of All Hallows or All Saints - one of the greatest feast days of the church year. We must remember this and not relinquish the day to those who adore superstition and other spiritual nonsense.

We are privileged at St. Mark’s to celebrate All Saints’ Day with a High Mass, and the glory continues the following day with our All Souls Requiem Mass when we remember the past year’s departed. Please note that on All Saints’ Day the 11:00 am mass will not be celebrated in the Lady Chapel. After the evening High Mass there will be a festive reception in the Parish Hall. The offering on All Saints and All Souls has been designated for the Pastoral Fund.

This Sunday, November 3, we will have only one mass at 11:00 am, and at that mass we will bless our stewardship commitments. As I write this, the church has already received 22 pledges totaling a little over $130,000. This is an excellent start to our stewardship campaign. Many thanks to those who have pledged, and many thanks to those who plan to bring their pledge sheets this coming Sunday. Remember that you may pledge online through the parish website if that is more convenient. Many parishioners prefer the online pledge option.

The upcoming days are delightfully busy, and since you will hear me preach on All Saints’ Day and on Sunday, I will keep this column brief. Let me simply say that I look forward to the worship we shall offer together this weekend. I also give thanks for the offerings of worship, time, and talent that each of us is dedicating to Jesus Christ and his beloved Church.

Blessings to you and your loved ones this All Hallows-tide.
Father Paul Lillie +