Bells Toll in Brecksville. The silence of a Sunday morning is interrupted by the tolling of a church bell. Slowly and repeatedly, the bell sounds with a moment of silence between each toll. The sound of the bell is a reminder to pause and remember.
On All Saints Sunday, United Methodists around the world publicly remember and honor those who have passed away. Celebrated on the first Sunday in November, All Saints Sunday honors the impact each life has on another.
At Brecksville United Methodist Church the names of all who have died in the past year are read, a candle is lit, and the church bell is tolled for each person. Prayers are lifted for the departed as the congregation honors and celebrates them in silent prayer.
United Methodists believe in the “communion of the saints,” which includes not only all living believers, but also all who have gone before them, a “great cloud of witnesses,” which surrounds the living and cheers each of us on.
Those attending the 10:30 service in person on Sunday, November 2, 2025 are encouraged to bring a photo of a loved one they would like to remember on All Saints Sunday and place it on the altar.
If you would like to recognize a loved one who died between November 2024 and 2025 with the tolling of the bell, please contact the Brecksville United Methodist Church office by texting 833- 556-1171, calling 440-526-8938 or emailing hello@brecksvilleumc.com
Learn More
- Why Do We Observe All Saints Day?
- All Saints Day: A Holy Day John Wesley Loved
- A Blessing for All the Firsts Without a Loved One by Kate Bowler
- Marking a Death Anniversary – from Dignity Memorial