An important belief in the Catholic Faith is the communion of saints; indeed, the communion of saints is the Church. It is the mystical, living body of which Christ is head. All are united under one Him, the source that bridges every gap.

This mystical body consists of three parts: the blessed in heaven, the souls in purgatory, and the faithful on earth. Each occupies a revered place in the family of God. However, the faithful play a unique role in this communion, since they alone may assist, and be assisted.

We, the ones who are living on earth, are the faithful in this blessed communion. In the Holy Scriptures, it mentions that, in the beginning of the Church, the apostles and disciples of Christ gave what they had and received what they were given with humility. They prayed for the dead and honored the martyrs. There was not a barrier between those of higher status or the beggars, the circumcised or the uncircumcised.  Every Christian participated with love, generosity, and meekness. 

Just as these early Christians offered themselves for others, so must we. Not only should we share the gifts the Lord has given us, but also receive the sacraments regularly and daily witness to the love of Christ. This draws down more grace. 

A single action, be it good or evil, impacts the communion as a whole to some degree. For example, if the eye is damaged, the person cannot see as clearly. In the same way, whatever one chooses to do affects the mystical body of Christ. Therefore, we must strive to be as good a Christian as possible - for not only does the individual’s spiritual life hang in the balance, but the welfare of other souls as well. 

We may follow the saints’ example. They have achieved the goal and will now help us to do the same. It is helpful to model one’s life after a specific saint, particularly when a saint who had similar failings as they did or lived in a comparable setting. That way, one may find solace and inspiration in another who has suffered and conquered. Observing the example of the saints, we may model our life after them and draw more individuals into the communion.