Paul addresses Christians as those ‘called to be saints’ e.g. Romans, Corinthians, Ephesians, Philippians…. The term ‘saints’ is used around fifty times in the New Testament, and not once does it refer to a specific individual.  Paul unreservedly attributed sainthood collectively – to all believers! To be a saint is not a rank given as a reward for what we might term ‘saintly behaviour’. In spite of the canonisation processes developed within certain Christian traditions through which specific individuals are elevated to saintly status, scripturally all believers are designated as saints!

            It is theologically incorrect to say something like: ‘I am a Christian, but believe me, I am no saint!’ By definition, being Christian means being part of God’s people ‘called to be saints’.

As far as the Apostle Paul is concerned, each one of us is as much a saint as Mother Teresa of Calcutta, or Mary Mackillop of Australia, for example. Their canonisation process which lead to their elevation, is alien to Paul’s understanding of sainthood. There is no prerequisite to prove a miracle performed by the individual. Often this is interpreted as a miracle of healing.

            As far as Paul was concerned, the greatest miracle Christians can demonstrate is that of practical care for others, what is called ‘charity’

in the best sense of that old fashioned word, what Jesus names as alms giving in Luke 12. Paul states in 1 Corinthians 13:2 ‘and if I have the faith to remove mountains, but have not charity, then I am nothing’. This charitable attitude towards others signifies the true miracle of Christians.

            My knowledge of the folk in our congregation confirms that we have a congregation of saints! I am aware of the practical concern and care giving offered by virtually everyone of our folk. Note though, one does not have to be perfect to be a saint.

   Perfection is not the point. The truth is that all of us are designated saints because of being followers of Jesus. We are the church of God in Bald Hills, sanctified by Christ Jesus, and designated ‘saints’! Grace to you all, and peace from God our Father and our Lord Jesus Christ.                Louis van Laar