For all the saints, who from their labors rest - and those still at work!

All Saints’ Day is the church’s autumnal Easter celebration; a liturgical moment out of time that invites us to connect the Church Expectant and the Church Triumphant (those living and those who have died). It is an opportunity to give thanks for those whom we love and see no longer, finding consolation that even now they are feasting at the heavenly banquet table.  In the wonderful mystery of the Eucharist, we, too, share in that heavenly meal, knowing  “that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 8:38-39
I know I mentioned this about 6 months ago, but because it is an important, it bears repeating – if you are over the age of 18, you should have a Will and hopefully an Advanced Directive, sometimes referred to as a Living Will.  These documents are extremely helpfully for your family when making arrangements following your death.
I understand that having a conversation about death is usually avoided in “polite company,” however, it is better to find an opportunity to do it now rather than in a moment of grief, wondering what your loved one wanted.  This includes finding out if your loved one has any desire to have their organs or body used to benefit others through organ and tissue donation.  In the State of New Jersey, drivers can designate themselves as organ donors on their licenses, but it is still a good idea to mention that wish to your family members.
An Advanced Directive allows a designated person to make health care decisions on your behalf if you are unable to so.  It is important that that person know your thoughts about extending your life through artificial means (e.g. respirator, feeding tube).  A thorough document will specify when you do or do not want such measures used. 
A Will designates how you want your worldly goods to be distributed when you die. If you have specific bequests, it is important to make sure those are specified.  If you would like to include St. Barnabas in your Will, it is possible to establish a Charitable Annuity through the Episcopal Church Foundation that will benefit you prior to your death, and then benefit the church.  If you would like more information, please go to: http://www.episcopalfoundation.org/resource/Resource%20Library/Planned%20Giving%20Brochures%20and%20Booklets/Charitable%20Gift%20Annuity%20Brochure.pdf
If you are interested in planning your funeral liturgy, such as selecting readings and hymns, I would be honored to help with that process.  Taking that burden from your family is a true gift and offers you comfort in knowing your favorite hymns will be used!
As Christians, we should not be afraid of death, but we should be prepared for it.  Please take the time to make your final preparations or, if you haven’t reviewed them in the last 5 years, take time to review them and update the necessary information.

May all the faithfully departed rest in peace and light perpetual shine upon them.
In Christ,
Rev. Valerie+ 

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