The Saints We Honour, the People We Become

The Church celebrates the Solemnity of All Saints on November 1 and All Souls’ Day on November 2. All Saints’ Day honors those who share in the life of God in heaven, including individuals whose names do not appear on any liturgical calendar. All Souls’ Day focuses on prayer for the faithful departed, a time when families often visit cemeteries and gather for Mass.

The Diocese of Port of Spain notes that these traditions express the belief that death does not end the belonging of people to one another in Christ. The observance also serves as a way to remember the character and virtues of deceased family members. Pope Francis has previously written about the concept of saints who live next door.