Father Koch: Remembering the saints we knew in our lives

Father Koch reflected on the Communion of the Saints in a Gospel reflection for the Solemnity of All Saints on Nov. 1, 2026. He noted that the feast honors those who lived with heroic faith, including family members, religious brothers or sisters, parish priests, and quiet parishioners.

He also recognized the many people who endured persecution or martyrdom for their faith. Koch stated that remembering these individuals serves as a call to action for the present and the future rather than mere sentimentality.

The reflection noted that the feast of All Saints stands in contrast to the Commemoration of All Souls that follows. While the Church celebrates the hope of the resurrection and the eternal life of the deceased, Koch noted that the upcoming commemoration allows for the question of whether the deceased have completed their time of purification.