I wrote this piece in 2017 but it has took on special poignance this year, especially as we consider the many lives lost to the coronavirus pandemic and related illnesses, depression, and isolation. It moves gently between spaces of grief and gratitude, and hopes to offer a space to name those who have died.

A bilingual (Spanish/English) setting was written for a Dia de Los Muertos service at Park Avenue Christian Church in 2018. This year we used the piece for Eden Theological Seminary's annual All Saints observance, and in this video version shared at Valley Presbyterian Church (Portola Valley, CA) on All Saints Sunday.

The photos and music are my own and you're welcome to share with attribution. A link to purchase the music will posted soon.

We Remember Them by Sylvan Kamens & Rabbi Jack Riemer

At the rising sun and at its going down; We remember them.
At the blowing of the wind and in the chill of winter; We remember them.
At the opening of the buds and in the rebirth of spring; We remember them.
At the blueness of the skies and in the warmth of summer; We remember them.
At the rustling of the leaves and in the beauty of the autumn; We remember them.
At the beginning of the year and when it ends; We remember them.
As long as we live, they too will live, for they are now a part of us as We remember them.

When we are weary and in need of strength; We remember them.
When we are lost and sick at heart; We remember them.
When we have decisions that are difficult to make; We remember them.
When we have joy we crave to share; We remember them.
When we have achievements that are based on theirs; We remember them.
For as long as we live, they too will live, for they are now a part of us as, We remember them.