Dear friends,
Most months of the year have something special associated with them or happening within them, and November is no exception.  For me November is the month of remembering.  "Remember, remember the 5th November..." Many of us look forward to bonfires, firework displays, baked potatoes, and the smell of smoke lingering in the air.  We may well remember the good time we had last year as we go off to this year's event, but I wonder how many of us call to mind the reason "why gunpowder treason should ever be forgot!" 
On a more serious note November contains the recollections of Armistice Day and the important event of remembering all those who gave their lives in the two Great Wars of the 20^th century, and countless others who have died in service ever since.   It is a day of solemnity, an occasion for both grieving and thankfulness, and as we contemplate the horrors of war it is a time for people to redouble their efforts to work for peace, in their local communities as well as in the world.
Whether it's November or not, remembering is important.  We can remember loved ones who have passed on with fondness and appreciation, keeping them alive in our hearts and minds.  We can remember mistakes from the past and use this as a way of learning not to do the same thing again.  We can remember good times and bad times, people and places, events and occasions that bring a tear or cause a smile.  And all this can be very helpful.
Remembering is an important ingredient in a life of faith.  In these days where there is so much reported violence, hatred, suspicion and anger it is not uncommon for people to wonder where is God in all this.  Sometimes we all need something to help us have faith in the God who loves us, especially when events around us maybe cloud our vision of him.  This is where remembering is so important.  Think about it... either God exists or he doesn't, there can be no in between.  If God does exist then he always has and always will, for that is the nature of God who is eternal.  So, as you look back on your life, it must be true that if there is any moment, however small or split-second even, when you knew for certain, without any shadow of doubt that God existed, or that God had to be real on that occasion, then God is there for you forever. 
Remembering is a way of keeping the past alive in the present so that we have hope for the future.  And that is at the heart of the Christian faith; that Christ who was alive on earth before his crucifixion is alive forevermore after resurrection in the glory of the Father's heavenly Kingdom, and is alive and at large in the world in the hearts and minds of those who love him, and through the work of his Church.
So keep remembering, and may your remembrances be of great help and comfort to you.  And remember that God has such an incredible love for you that you will never be forgotten.
Best wishes to you all,