Scripture Reflection, November 1, 2026, All Saints

Revelation 7:2-4, 9-14 1 John 3:1-3 Matthew 5:1-12a

Today, on the feast of All Saints Day, the church gives us the Beatitudes for our gospel reading. How wonderful that we should be reminded again of the life God prizes just before we cast our vote on Tuesday.

Though it is not possible to know personally, each of the individuals asking for our vote, it is possible by looking at what officeholders have already done, what policies they have already supported, to know what their priorities are. Let us hold those up against the beatitudes to see what we can learn.

Blessed are the poor in spirit. If the candidate has held office before, what seems to be his or her priority? What is his or her orientation toward wealth? Do they seem to see public service as a way to serve the common good or have they made and continue to accrue enormous amounts of personal wealth while holding office?

Blessed are those who mourn. A great many people our country are suffering. Some have had their nutritional supplements removed. Others suffer from lack of healthcare. Whole groups of people are targeted for detention and removal from this country without due process. Our bishops have taken a strong stand in support of those individuals.Does your candidate mourn with those who suffer? Does he or she plan to alleviate their suffering with concrete policy?

Blessed are the peacemakers. Our pope consistently addresses the issue of war and peace. How about the candidates you are considering? Do they side with peacemaking or annihilation of an enemy?

In the sermon on the mount, Jesus has left us with a template for how we are to live with one another. This is not just a recommendation for our private one-to-one relationships. Those who share authority and responsibility for the common good are not exempt. As you cast your ballot on Tuesday you give your amen to the policies and practices your chosen candidate supports. Choose wisely.

Pat Schnee, OPA