St. Elizabeth of Hungary, Nov. 17 – St. Elizabeth was born in Hungary in 1207. She was known for her acts of charity, service and generosity with the poor, care for people who were ill, and starting several hospitals.

St. Luke the Evangelist, Oct. 18 – St. Luke is credited with writing the Gospel of Luke and the book of Acts, as well as being a physician and a disciple of Paul. The Gospel of Luke pays special attention to Jesus’ concern for the poor and lost, and the healing justice that comes to us through faith in the life-giving Christ.

Thomas the apostle from the story in the Gospel of John. When Jesus appeared to the disciples, he said to Thomas: “‘Put your finger here and see my hands. Reach out your hand and put it in my side. Do not doubt but believe.’ Thomas answered him, ‘My Lord and my God!”’ (John 20:27-28)

St. Francis of Assisi, Oct. 4 – St. Francis was born into a wealthy family but eventually took a vow of poverty and committed his life to serving the poor, in the manner of Christ. He also believed that it is our responsibility, as stewards of God’s creation, to protect and enjoy nature and animals. Many congregations plan services for blessing pets and other animals on this day.

How many saints do we recognize and celebrate? By some counts, 800 to 10,000 or more. It all depends on how and whom you count, and whom you ask. As Lutheran Christians, our list of saints would be very long, since Luther taught that every Christian is simultaneously saint (just) and sinner. “Simul Iustus et Peccator” – as he put it in Latin.

All Saints Day, Nov. 1 – On this day we give thanks for the saints who have gone before us, for the saints still among us, and for the saints of God still to come – together forming the body of Christ. We remember people who strengthen and inspire our faith, give us hope, are generous and caring, teach and guide us, and witness to God’s love and presence in the world.

October 20, 2014

For all the saints

Do Lutherans recognize, remember and celebrate the lives of saints? Yes! We give thanks to God for those people throughout history and in our lives today who are faithful – yet not perfect – witnesses of God’s love and presence in the world. We can relate to their human weaknesses and imperfections while at the same time find inspiration and guidance for our lives and faith through their example. Lutherans do not pray to or with saints, since we believe that Christ alone is our advocate and mediator and that God hears and attends to our every prayer.

For all the saints

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