In these liturgies it seems there was the simultaneous experience of the tangible and ineffable.  We participated in music that opened our relationships.  We recalled through pictures and words those who have passed from us this past year.  We entered with them into a place of connection which was paradoxically painful and feeding.  We listened to and sang texts which named and spoke to our deepest yearnings and hungers.  We offered ourselves and those around us on the altar allowing this action of blessing, breaking and giving back to lead us more deeply on our sojourn with the Sacred.

Perhaps it is good we do not have quick and simple words to describe these moments for if we did it would declare their pedestrian nature.  Perhaps we are simply to give thanks for the work of a community who understands the need for all seasons including the times we speak with and to death.  All Souls Day is not everyday and for good reason.  And it is a deep gift, a primal gift, of generations from all cultures who understand we are intimately connected with all who have ever been and need to attend to those seasonal 'portals' when that connection is of deep focus.

For a community that sings, prays, wonders and hungers deeply, I am very grateful.

Peace,

Todd Donatelli