ALL SOULS DAY

Catholic Church observes "All Souls Day" during November 2. Did you know that its official name is "The Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed". In some region it is called Feast of All Souls. 

The Roman Catholic celebration is associated with the doctrine that the souls of the faithful who at death have not been cleansed from the temporal punishment due to venial sins and from attachment to mortals sins cannot immediately attain the beatific vision in heaven and they may be helped to do so by prayers and by the sacrifice of the Mass.

Here are some common practices of people during All Souls Day:

1. Lightening of candles.

2. Sharing of soul cakes to the poor.

3. Baking of special types of bread, cakes and "kakanin".

4. Some people believe that the dead eat foods that are left out during supper.

5. Attend mass and visit the cemetery taking flowers to decorate their relatives' grave.

And by this time, help me pray for our departed loved ones:

Eternal rest grant unto them, Oh Lord,

and let perpetual light shine upon them.

May the souls of the faithful departed,

through the Mercy of God,

rest in peace.

Amen.