Around All Saints Day, many Christians make references to departed saints. Some Christians stress invoking the prayers of the faithful departed. Other Christians fear that any observance of the day may be dangerous. Still others may mention the day as a generic memorial day for those who have died.
However, traditional Anglicans have sought a more balanced or moderate approach. We maintain teachings that we consider agreeable to the Holy Scriptures and consistent with the best teachings of the ancient church. We reject the medieval overemphasis on the role of past saints, while respecting their examples and recognizing a spiritual communion among all those who are faithful to Christ. As Revelation 7:9-17 illustrates, true believers from all groups and times praise God as those still on earth do daily and weekly. As Hebrews 12:1 reminds us, we are surrounded by a great cloud of witnesses, and as Jude 3 exhorts us, we should keep contending for the faith once delivered to the saints.
Prayer Book Calendars have retained many days honoring saints. The faith and examples of the saints should be honored and followed. Although the medieval cult of saints sometimes went in extreme or semi-idolatrous tangents, respect for the heritage of the saints has been a basic part of orthodox Christianity.
In conclusion, let us remember and honor the saintly Christians who have gone before us and handed down the biblical faith. However, let us be careful in our enthusiasm lest we exaggerate their importance and detract from Christ's role as our unique Mediator!
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