Ken’s e-Pistle

November 1, 2023

When I first retired, I decided to make an independent study of some of our ancestors in the faith.  As Presbyterians we may trace a bit of our ecclesiastical bloodline to those Celtic denizens of the forests and highlands often referred to as Druids or Old Religion.  In fact, the Celtic Cross, which features a circle around the junction of the crosspieces, reflects the blending of the Christian and Druidic traditions.  The sun, vitally important to the indigenous religion, is prominently displayed as part of our faith expression.

The tradition of observing the change of seasons is held in common by many faiths. As the days shortened and the nights grew colder, our ancestors sought solace in bonfires to chase away the chill.  Among our Celtic forebearers, the holiday known as Samhein developed (pronounced Saw-haine) and was observed on November 1 as the harvest came in and was preserved for the coming days of winter. Additionally, those who had died during the previous year were remembered and invited into the home. Various rituals were observed which supposedly welcomed the loved ones and held the less friendly spirits at bay.  Again, the bonfire played a prominent role in lighting the path for the deceased and forbidding entry to evil.

As Christianity came to the Celts, a melding of the traditions took place.  Christianity was often a faith of accommodation rather than antagonism, quickly adopting complementary customs and giving them a Christian emphasis to modify or replace the original practice.  All Saints Day is a reflection of this.  Here, the faithful departed are remembered, often with the lighting of a candle in worship.  Prayers are offered for the repose of the resting and the strengthening of the survivors.  We will celebrate this day on Sunday, November 5.  It is significant that this will also be  Communion Sunday, giving us a visual, tactile reminder of our belief in the Communion of the Saints of all times and places.

Come and remember.

I bid you peace!