On 1 and 2 November, the Church invites us to experience two days that are particularly rich in faith, love and hope: All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.
On 1 November, we celebrate All Saints’ Day, this wonderful feast day which honours all the saints in Heaven, whether known or unknown. These men and women who followed Christ remind us that holiness is a path open to each and every one of us. Their example encourages us to move forward each day in faith, charity and love for God.
On 2 November, we pray for our dear departed. On this day of reflection, our thoughts turn to those who have left us: our parents, our loved ones, our friends and all the souls in Purgatory. Although their absence saddens us, our faith reminds us that death is not an end, but a passage to eternal life.
Lighting a candle, having a Mass said or saying a prayer are all acts of love through which we entrust our departed loved ones to God’s infinite mercy.
Prayer for All Saints’ Day and our dear departed
Lord Jesus,
On this feast of All Saints’ Day, we give You thanks for all the saints who illuminate Heaven with their love and faithfulness.
May their example guide us on the path to holiness and may their intercession accompany us through the trials of our lives.
On this day when we remember our dear departed, we tenderly entrust to You all the souls who have left this earth.
Welcome them into the light of Your Kingdom, forgive their sins and grant them eternal peace.
Comfort the hearts that mourn a loved one, soothe the pain of their absence and rekindle in us the hope that one day we shall be reunited with You.
May the light of Your love shine eternally upon those we love.
Grant them, Lord, eternal rest, and may the light shine upon them for ever.
Amen.
During these days of prayer and remembrance, discover our novena candles, votive candles and religious items to support your intentions and pay tribute to those who remain forever in our hearts.
May all the saints intercede for you and your families, and may the peace of Christ be with your dear departed.
May you be blessed
