On November 2nd of each year, Catholics observe The Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed, also known as All Souls Day.  We are encouraged to pray for the dead and to remember our loved ones who have gone before us.  Our prayers for these souls assist in expediting the “process of purification.”  The Church recognizes that few people achieve perfection in this life (after all, we are human!), and therefore, go to the grave with remaining traces of sinfulness; a period of purification is necessary to prepare the soul to join God.  The Catechism of the Catholic Church explains, “All who die in God’s grace and friendship, but still imperfectly purified, are indeed assured of their eternal salvation; but after death they undergo purification, so as to achieve the holiness necessary to enter the joy of heaven.”  This is called Purgatory.  It is important to recognize that Purgatory is not a state of punishment, but rather a cleansing very much like our Baptism.  Think of it this way: Purgatory makes the soul perfect forever!  Our prayers for the deceased put their souls in the HOV lane to complete purification and unity with God—pretty awesome! In remembering our deceased loved ones on All Souls Day, it is common for people to visit cemeteries and decorate grave-sites.  Be sure to reflect on the memories of your loved ones.  If you can, make some time to visit a cemetery, light a candle and attend Mass this All Souls Day.

The Mass will be celebrated on November 2, at 8:00 am in the morning.