Yesterday, I was thinking about All Saints Day and how for most of my life I've ignored this holiday. Not surprising when you consider the fact that I grew up going to a Presbyterian church where Reformation Day was a big deal. So following a Catholic holiday just didn't fit our profile. History has a way of following us...
As a kid the only thing that I remembered about November 1st was that it was the day after Halloween. I grew up in a home where heading out into the neighborhood to collect a lot of candy was considered a good thing.
But today, living in France, November 1st has a new meaning. I remember getting a clue as to the importance of All Saints Day when I was in Szczecin Poland. I had never seen so many people heading to the cemeteries. And so I've decided to list the saints that have gone on before me, who left their mark on my life...
Russell and Mathilda Glock, my dad's parents and who set the tone spiritually for their three children and their 10 grandchildren.
Margaret Gray, my mom's mom who lived with us until her death in 1982. Mimi, as she was known by everyone, was a source of joy and laughter.
John Seaton, the first of my childhood friends who was called home. John by nature and necessity (he was diagnosed with diabetes from an early age) was a rock, steady and dependable.
Tom Dean, a fellow student at Emmaus, who left his mark.
John Harper, a professor at Emmaus, who died from liver cancer in 1987. His church history class was a huge blessing.
Paul Sapp, another professor at Emmaus, his class on eccleisiology left its mark. A larger than life character, who showed how important it was to love life.
Carl Glock, a cousin of my father who died too early leaving behind his wife and two small children.
Barbara Clawson, Mrs. Clawson was a wonderful example of faith and perseverance.
Norma Down, words fail when one tries to describe Norma. She was the prototypical Christian Education Director. She was also a dear friend and teacher. After my parents she had the greatest influence on my life.
So there you are. Some of the saints that left an impact on my life. I praise God for your labors.
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