In November, we celebrate the traditional three days of All Hallow’s Eve, All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day—the perfect time to reflect on the Communion of Saints. These observances invite us to contemplate the connection between the Church Militant (those of us living on Earth), the Church Triumphant (the Saints in Heaven) and the Church Suffering (the souls in Purgatory). 

This time of year invites us to consider the Four Last Things: Death, Judgement, Heaven and Hell. As we pray for the souls of the faithful departed and celebrate the lives of all the Saints in Heaven–we are reminded of our own death and judgement.

31 October — All Hallow’s Eve

All Hallow’s Eve falls on October 31st, the night before All Saints’ Day. Traditionally, the Church held a vigil on this night, a time for fasting and prayer in preparation for the feast day. Though this custom has evolved over time, it remains a moment to reflect on the lives of the saints and to spiritually prepare for the celebrations of All Saints’ Day.

1 November — All Saints’ Day

All Saints’ Day, celebrated annually on November 1st, is a solemn feast honoring all the saints of the Church—both canonized and unknown. This Holy Day of Obligation calls us to recognise the countless men and women who have attained heaven and are now interceding for us–even those whose names we will never know!

2 November — All Souls’ Day

All Souls’ Day, observed on November 2nd, is dedicated to remembering the faithful departed, especially those suffering in Purgatory. On this day, we pray for those who died with unresolved attachment to sin and who need our prayers to be purified and prepared for the Beatific Vision. Visiting your local parish graveyard or cemetery during this time and offering prayers for the departed, is a wonderful way to remember the departed souls.