The Church is a community which extends far beyond the boundaries of time and space.  We are united as the Body of Christ in our baptism, with all God’s children throughout eternity, on earth and in heaven. 

With faith in life after death, and in certainty of the faithfulness of God to those whom he sanctifies in grace, we unite our prayers with those of this catholic Church. 

The saints are more than particular examples of holiness, they are not simply an impossible pattern to which we aspire to conform ourselves.  The saints are like us – sinful humans, transformed by the loving mercy of God, sometimes faithful, sometimes doubting, people who love, hurt, weep, and strive for the kingdom.  The saints are our friends, with whom we enjoy a mystical union in Christ.  Like those with whom we worship and pray on earth, they share our cares, and intercede for us.