"The Reunion of Saints" ALL SAINTS SUNDAY November 5 2023 RCL A

Please enjoy this broadcast of our candlelight service for All Saints Sunday in its entirety. The Most Reverend Dr. Mark D. Manning, D.D., D.R.S., Archbishop of Dallas Universal Life Church, delivers his sermon for ALL SAINTS SUNDAY, November 5, 2023 titled "The Reunion of Saints" followed by the announcements. Today's service was dedicated to all the Saints who have gone before us and especially in loving memory of Patricia Guinn McKool Petton -- November 23, 1953 ~ November 5, 2011. This text offers an overview of a church service that took place at the Dallas Universal Life Church in Texas. The service centered around the theme of All Saints Day and the concept of being part of God's family. Bishop Mark emphasized the idea of adoption into God's family, underscoring that each individual is chosen by God to be a part of his family. Prayers, Bible readings, and hymn singing were included in the service. The sermon stressed the significance of living as disciples of Christ and loving others, even those who may be difficult to love. The congregation was encouraged to remember and draw inspiration from the saints who have come before them and the example they set. The sermon also looked forward to the future reunion of all saints in heaven. Throughout the service, the transcript mentioned various saints by name and included a prayer asking for mercy and forgiveness from God. Communion was highlighted as a vital aspect of the service, symbolizing the Feast of Joy prepared for all God's people. Additionally, there were announcements about volunteering, the importance of handwashing, and getting vaccinated. Notably, the transcript included a recap of a charity event aimed at raising awareness for Alzheimer's disease. Bishop Mark urged the congregation to be servants, companions of the Holy Spirit, and to love and serve God. The service concluded with a blessing and a call to go in peace. Overall, the goal of the service was to inspire and guide the congregation in their faith journey, emphasizing the importance of being part of God's family, living as disciples of Christ, and loving others.