The Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed (All Souls)

Today the Church observes the Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed  (All Souls). The assigned readings are Wisdom 3:1-9, Romans 6:3-9, and John 6:37-40. The Responsorial Psalm is Psalm 23 (Psalm 23:1-6).

The Gospel reading is as follows:

Jesus said to the crowds: "Everything that the Father gives me will come to me, and I will not reject anyone who comes to me, because I came down from heaven not to do my own will but the will of the one who sent me. And this is the will of the one who sent me, that I should not lose anything of what he gave me, but that I should raise it on the last day. For this is the will of my Father, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in him may have eternal life, and I shall raise him on the last day."

As we observe this day, we entrust to the Lord’s mercy each of our deceased family members, friends, neighbors, and associates, as well as each of soul around the world who has passed away – especially those who most need our prayers.

Reflection on this day:

Crossroads Initiative:  All Souls, Purgatory & Prayers for the Dead