Sainthood is not One-Size-Fits-All

“Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven.” // Matthew 5:12

Have you ever had a Saint whom you are certain follows you around?

In fourth grade, I had to present a historical biography to my class via a conversational tea party. I randomly chose a book from our public school library, skimmed it, and faked my way through the project. Year later, a friend had an image hanging in her dorm of Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha —the random person I had (barely) done my assignment on, yet had no idea was Catholic, let alone on her way to canonization. After graduating college, I encountered her again via a year of service working in a predominantly Native Alaskan community where we celebrated the official canonization of Saint Kateri Tekakwitha, the first indigenous Saint of North America. She continues to show up in unexpected moments and I’m eager to see where I will encounter her next.

Time and time again I am floored by the witness of the Saints and the way we encounter them in our lives. Today, on the Solemnity of All Saints, I am struck by the variety of characteristics listed in the Sermon on the Mount. We hear Jesus name ways in which those willing to work for the Kingdom here on earth will be rewarded for their sacrifice in Heaven (see Matthew 5:1-12a). The numerous traits mentioned are reminiscent of the multitude of unique stories shared in the lives of the Saints. And the not-yet-canonized ones we celebrate today have stories we do not even know!

There is no one-size-fits-all in regards to achieving sainthood. You don’t have to be a renowned theologian or a perpetually praying religious in a convent. You don’t need a huge social platform or gaggle of children you’re raising at home. You could be any of those things or none of those things. Your holiness is not dependent on your state in life, but rather your love and obedience to the will of God.

Let us give thanks for the diversity found in the Communion of Saints and their prayers for us as we journey towards Heaven, striving to do God’s will. All you holy men and women, pray for us!