Homily for the Solemnity of All Saints

All Saints Day, which we celebrate today, is not just a day to honor those who have attained sainthood; it is also a day to reflect on our call to follow and become disciples of Jesus, living lives that resemble those of the saints.

How does one become a saint? Usually,  it involves proof of a miracle attributed to the intercession of the candidate for sainthood and living a holy life. Technically, the Church does not make someone a saint; instead, it recognizes the sanctity of a person's life and the belief that they are in heaven.

However, sainthood is the byproduct of a larger goal: to know and love God with all our hearts, minds, and souls. Each of us, with our unique strengths and weaknesses, is called to embrace this intense and genuine desire. Those who embody this passion in every aspect of their lives, including us, can achieve the byproduct of sainthood.

Sanctity is something we should all strive for. The lives of the saints, which we celebrate today and throughout the year, serve as models of inspiration in our pursuit of unity with God. For instance, the humility of Saint Francis of Assisi or the courage of Saint Joan of Arc can guide us in our own spiritual journeys. 

As we celebrate All Saints Day, let us also take a moment to reflect on our own lives and actions and how we can emulate the virtues of the saints in our daily lives.