When we think of the saints—those holy men and women who have gone before us into God’s presence—we naturally wonder if they still remember us. Do they know what is happening in our lives? Do they care? This question comes from a deep human longing to believe that love, once shared in Christ, never ends. And indeed, our faith assures us: the saints are not distant memories. They are living members of Christ’s Body who continue to love and intercede for us.
In the Letter to the Hebrews, we read, “Since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses…” (Hebrews 12:1). The saints surround us—not in a metaphorical way, but truly, through the bond of divine love. They see God face to face, and in God’s light, they know us and care for us. In heaven, their love has been purified and expanded; they see us as God sees us. Because they are united perfectly with Christ, they share in His concern for every soul still journeying on earth.
The Church calls this mystery the Communion of Saints—a beautiful reality that unites the faithful on earth, the souls in purgatory, and the saints in heaven. This communion means that those who have gone before us are not cut off from us. Their prayers strengthen us, their example inspires us, and their presence in God’s love keeps us connected to the same divine family. When we ask for their intercession, it is like asking a dear friend who is close to God to pray on our behalf.
So yes, the saints are deeply aware of us—not through their own power, but through the vision of God’s love. They rejoice when we grow in grace, they intercede when we struggle, and they welcome us when we reach heaven’s gates. Their awareness is not limited by earthly barriers, for in God, all are one. Our lives are known and loved in the communion of His saints.
Let us live each day knowing that we are never alone. The saints are with us, praying for us, cheering us on as we walk the narrow road of faith. May we learn from their love and let their witness draw us closer to Christ.
— Fr. John Matthew, for Christian Way
