Saint means "holy one" and when we are baptized, we are all called to be Saints. The Communion of Saints is the idea that all of God's holy people—in heaven and on Earth—are connected and are one big family in Christ. Imagine your favorite sports team. The players on the field are working together to win the game, but they are also part of a bigger team with everyone who has played for them in the past. 

• The players on the field are like the Church on Earth, all of us who are alive today and following Jesus.

• The players who have already retired are like the Saints in heaven, who have gone before us and finished the race.

• Everyone is still connected through their team, and they all work together toward the same goal. 

The Church believes anyone who is in heaven is a "Saint". The term "Saint" has two meanings:

 

• Refers to all the faithful who are in heaven, known as the "Communion of Saints,"

• Refers to those who have been officially declared Saints through a special blessing called canonization.

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All people serve as role models for living a holy life, have helped us to know Jesus, and can pray for people on Earth. These role models can be:

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• Canonized Saints (i.e., CarloAcutis, recently canonized teenager)

• Died In Faith (i.e., Fr. Walsh, founder of St. Paul's)

• Deceased Who Are Dear To Us (i.e.,Grandparent, Friend)

• Those who are still with us (i.e.,Family Member, Teacher)

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