At first it was a little startling when I realized that our Blessed Mother, the Angels, Saints and our Blessed dead were present at mass. I have never seen them or spoken with them although I know others who have. I would describe it as an experience of love and fellowship where, by faith, I know they are with me at mass. This experience is open to all who truly believe that the mass is eternity in time in our earthly journey into the kingdom of God. It is one aspect of what we confess in the Apostles' Creed when we believe in the "Communion of Saints".

By faith in Christ, we are all joined to Him. He is our head; we are His Mystical Body. All are joined to Him in love. His love gives life. Those who accept His love and return it, share His life. We cleave to Him by faith. "Nothing can separate us from the Love of God in Christ Jesus". Those in heaven, on earth, in purgatory are held to Him by His love.

At mass His love is revealed in His sacrificial death. He is present to us in His body, blood, soul and divinity. With Him are all His loved ones. Preeminently, Our Lady is present standing at His side. There are His angels and saints adoring and praising Him. And there also our dear ones who have died with the sign of faith are with Him.