In the Catholic tradition, we call on the communion of saints in prayer to accompany us in times of trial, celebration and everything in between. Theologian and Sister of St. Joseph Elizabeth Johnson uses the metaphor that the communion of saints can be imagined as a great stadium of people who have run, or are running, a great race. While we each independently approach the starting line, we are lifted by the love, encouragement, support and accompaniment of those who have gone before us, and who know well the challenges we are to face.