Halloween often begins the holiday season madness that lasts right through New Year's Day. We all get swept up in the energy and excitement of this time, as we decorate our houses, stock up on food,

and make travel plans. This year, let's take a moment to pause before we are off and running. This is a big week with All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.  These days give us the perfect focus for our calm and quiet selves, as they commemorate the holy and faithful departed among us. May we always look to the saints for inspiring examples of living Christ-filled lives.  And may God bless all those we have lost and for whom we mourn, and may their memory bring us peace as we prepare for the hustle and bustle of the upcoming holidays.

Have a blessed week, friends.