Today we celebrate All Saints Day, a Catholic tradition that calls on us to reflect on the lives led by men and women honored in sainthood. Every year on this special day, our reading presents the Beatitudes—Jesus’ teachings on happiness.

When we think of happiness in our own lives, we might think of activities that bring our family laughter, gifts that make our children smile, or a well-deserved vacation. But on All Saints Day, when we reflect the Beatitudes as Jesus expressed, we remember that happiness is bigger than the small moments that bring us joy.

We remember that happiness is bigger than the small moments that bring us joy.

In his Sermon on the Mount, the setting of today’s reading, Jesus announces the Beatitudes. He says, “Blessed are they who mourn, for they will be comforted” and “Blessed are the Peacemakers, for they will be called children of God ” Jesus even proclaims, “Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Though these examples seem unexpected, they teach us that true happiness is achieved when we are welcomed into the Kingdom of Heaven.

We celebrate the Saints in connection with this reading because they lived in the spirit of the Beatitudes. By finding moments in our lives to live by their example, we too embody the spirit of Jesus’ teachings.

Mother Teresa working with the poor

Mother Teresa with mothers and children in India

At CMMB, we celebrate all the holy men and women who lived in solidarity with the poor, but especially Mother Teresa. Her legacy and unwavering commitment to the vulnerable continues to inspire our service.

CMMB had the honor of working with Mother Teresa in the late 1970s. You can read about how we supported her mission in Calcutta on our website. As you reflect on the saints that inspire your own pursuit of happiness, we leave you with a daily prayer recited by Mother Teresa. Attributed to St. John Henry Newman, it was said to be among her favorites.

Dear Jesus, help me to spread Thy fragrance everywhere I go. Flood my soul with Thy spirit and love. Penetrate and possess my whole being so utterly that all my life may only be a radiance of Thine. Shine through me and be so in me that every soul I come in contact with may feel Thy presence in my soul. Let them look up and see no longer me but only Jesus. Stay with me and then I shall begin to shine as you shine, so to shine as to be a light to others. Amen.

In grace and peace,

CMMB

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