Articles of Faith | The Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed (All Souls Day)

We remember all those who have died in a special way on all Souls Day (The Commemoration of the Faithful Departed)

The Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed
(All Souls)

November 2^nd is All Souls Day, sometimes called the Day of the Dead. On this day, and during the month of November, the Church prays in a special way for the souls of the faithful departed, and individuals pray especially for those whom they have known and loved. The Holy Souls in purgatory died in the mercy of God, thus they are called “holy.” However, because they still had attachment to sin at the time of their death, they must undergo the spiritual purification of their souls before they are able to fully love God with their whole heart, mind, and soul for all eternity. As they are nevertheless part of the communion of saints, they depend upon us to help ease their suffering and quickly advance them through their purification so that they can join the saints in heaven. Those in purgatory cannot pray for themselves, this is why they are also called “poor.” They can no longer merit anything for themselves and rely entirely on living souls to pray and make sacrifices on their behalf.

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From the beginning the Church has honored the memory of the dead and offered prayers in suffrage for them, above all the Eucharistic sacrifice, so that, thus purified, they may attain the beatific vision of God.”

Catechism of the Catholic Church (1032)

Candles in a cemetery on All Souls’ Day. During this holiday (November 2), many Roman Catholics pray for the “faithful departed” thought to be in purgatory.

Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord,
and let perpetual light shine upon them.
May the souls of all the faithful departed,
through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.”

Prayer for Eternal Rest (The Requiem Prayer)

Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.”

Christian prayer