November, 1990
Written especially for my grandchildren and /or great grandchildren who have not been privileged to learn about the traditions of my Catholic Church:
In my church, November is the month when we remember our deceased family members and friends, i.e. the saints who have preceded us into heaven and God’s glory. All Saints Day (Nov. 1) is a time when we remember and honor holy people such as Mary the mother of Jesus, St. Joseph and saints whose names we have received at Baptism from our parents.
Kathy (Catherine) Marie (Mary)
Barbara Elaine (Helena)
Mary Eileen (Helena)
Richard Michael
James Christopher
Joseph Patrick
In years past many Catholics included Mary, the mother of Jesus in the child’s name e.g. Marie, Mario , Marian. Many Spanish people give Jesus as a name. Other saints names were chosen by the individual when receiving the sacrament of Confirmation. I chose Mary. My brother and husband both chose Joseph.
All Souls Day (Nov. 2) is a time set aside to honor all deceased people. When I was a little girl, it was the custom to attend three masses to pray for the dead on All Souls Day. All Soul’s Day has bitter sweet memories for Mike and me. On November 2, 1970, our first grandchild, Jennifer Shawn Merlo, age only ten weeks, died a crib death. She is buried at the Catholic cemetery in Fairbanks, Alaska. Two summers ago, on a trip to Alaska, her uncle Fr. Dick Martini found her tiny grave with a small metal name marker still intact after 20 years! Little saint Jennifer Shawn, we pray with you each year.
During November we keep close to our hearts our deceased mothers, fathers, relatives and friends. This past year I lost two close college friends – Penny Hoye and Pat Biby. Penny was the godmother to my first born child, Kathleen. Pat was in my wedding party. If you look at my tinted wedding pictures she was the bridesmaid who wore light pastel green.
Just last Tuesday, a 57 year-old man dropped dead while playing tennis with Mike’s evening group. May his soul rest in peace with God.
Be prepared. No one knows when God will call us from this world.
A quote from the book September by Rosamunde Pilcher:
“Grief is a funny thing because you don’t have to carry it with you for the rest of your life. After a bit you set it down by the roadside and walk on and leave it resting there.”
Elaine's Memoirs 