Feast of All Souls' Day

This day is a Roman Catholic day of remembrance for friends and loved ones who have passed away. It is traditionally observed on November 2.

All Souls' Day is celebrated with Masses and festivities in honor of the dead. The Feast of All Souls reminds us of our obligation to live holy lives and that there will be purification of the souls of those destined for Heaven.

The Christian observance of All Souls' Day pays respects and remembers the souls of those who died ahead of us.  The living pray on behalf of souls who are still in purgatory, the state in the afterlife where souls are purified before proceeding to heaven.  Souls in purgatory, who are members of the Church just like living Christians, must suffer so that they can be purged of their sins. All Souls' Day is a special time to pray for their souls that they may be received into heaven.

Upon death, it is believed that souls have not yet been cleansed of sins. Praying for souls of loved ones helps to remove the stain of sin, and allow the souls to enter the pearly gates of heaven. Through prayers and good works, living members of the Church may help their departed friends and family.

There are three Requiem Masses that are said by the clergy on this day to assist the souls from Purgatory to Heaven: one Mass for the celebrant, one for the departed, and one for the Pope.

Short Reflection:

For Christians, our faith teaches that death is the passage of the earthly pilgrimage to the heavenly homeland. At that time, our loving Father welcomes all his children returning home, from every nation, from all tribes and people and tongues.

May our traditional visit to the tombs of our dead  be an opportunity to think without fear about the mystery of death, and prepare us to face it with serenity.

Prayer on All Souls' Day:

Merciful Father,

hear our prayers and console us,

as we renew our faith in Your Son,

whom You raised from the dead.

Strengthen our hope

that all our departed brothers and sisters

will share in His resurrection,

who lives and reigns

with You and the Holy Spirit

one God, for ever and ever.

Amen.

Deo Optimo Maximo!

Reference: Holiday.net