By Dr. Martin Kilbridge
The Network of SNJM Schools conference we hosted last week formally began with a Mass in Our Lady’s Chapel, the second-floor chapel once used by the Sisters who lived in Martin Hall. It is a beautiful, sacred space filled with multicolored light flowing through the stained-glass windows dedicated to the holy names of Mary, including Morning Star, Queen of Peace, Cause of Our Joy, and Mother of Our Savior.
It is this last title—Mother of Our Savior—that I reflect upon as we commemorate All Saints Day today and All Souls Day tomorrow. The communion of saints reminds us that holiness is not distant or unattainable, but woven into the fabric of our human lives. Mary’s “yes” to God’s call made possible the salvation of the world; her faithfulness, humility, and courage are a model for all who seek to live with purpose and love.
In remembering the saints, we honor those who have lived lives of extraordinary faith. In remembering the souls of all who have gone before us, we also acknowledge the quiet sanctity of everyday holiness—the teachers, family members, friends, and Sisters of the Holy Names whose compassion and example continue to shape and inspire us.
As light streamed through the chapel windows last week, illuminating faces gathered in joyful celebration of our common mission to cast the fire of faith upon the earth (Luke 12:49-53), I was reminded that we are each called to let God’s light shine through us. Whether as educators, students, or other members of this Holy Names community, we too are invited to be “mothers of the Savior” in our own way—bringing Christ’s love to life in the world around us.