1. “I believe in the communion of saints…”

2. Communion of Saints
Church triumphant – those who are in the presence of God in heaven
Church militant (on earth) – those who are daily working on their journey to heaven
Church suffering (expectant) – those who are being purified (in purgatory) before entering God’s presence in heaven.

3. Connection
All parts of the communion of saints are connected through prayer.
We ask those in heaven to pray (intercede) for us.
We pray for those who are in purgatory.

4. Saints
We are all called to be saints, to be in right relationship with God.
“Saints are sinners who keep trying to do what’s right.”
Some saints are selected to serve as examples for us and are canonized.

5. Canonization A person’s cause is presented and studied
After a miracle attributed to the intercession of the candidate, the person is declared “blessed” (beatified).
After a second miracle, the person is declared a saint (canonized).

6. Feast days
November 1 – All Saints Day – we remember all those who have gone before us and are in heaven. This is our feast day also – the saints on earth.
November 2 – All Souls Day – we remember in a special way those who are being purified in purgatory.
Halloween – “All Hallow’s Eve (October 31)