All Saints & All Souls Days

All Saints’ Day is November 1

On this day, the Church celebrates the Communion of Saints in a very special way because we believe that there is a powerful spiritual bond between the living and those in heaven.  Today, we celebrate both the saints that are recognized by the Church and those unknown to us.  On this day, Catholics are required to attend Mass because it is a Holy Day of Obligation.

All Souls’ Day is November 2

On this day, the Church prays for all those who have died.  Traditionally, we especially visit the graves of loved ones during the month of November and pray in a special way for the souls of all the faithfully departed.  

“O Lord, support us all the day long, until the shadows lengthen, and the evening comes, and the busy world is hushed, and the fever of life is over, and our work is done.  Then in your mercy, grant us a safe lodging, and a holy rest, and peace at the last.”

St. John Henry Newman