Halloween and The Month of Remembrance

If you have been to Bunnings or any of the major shopping centres recently, you would have been greeted with ghostly faces and wacky witches peering over the shelves. I witnessed more than a few toddlers brought to tears by scary zombie monsters. It’s just a bit of fun but what is at the heart of this tradition? What is all the fuss?

For Catholics, November is a special month of remembrance of the dead. The season begins with All Hallows' Eve (Halloween) on 31 October, followed by All Saints' Day on 1 November and All Souls' Day on 2 November. Together, these celebrations remind us of the Communion of Saints: the connection between the faithful on earth, the saints in heaven, and all who are journeying towards God. Throughout November, we are encouraged to pray for loved ones who have died, visit cemeteries, and remember with hope that God calls each person to eternal life with Him.

Book of Remembrance

During the month of November, students and staff are warmly invited to write the names of family members, friends, and loved ones who have died in our Book of Remembrance, which will be available in the front office area.

As a community of faith, we will remember these people in prayer throughout November. The names of those entered in the Book of Remembrance will be read during the Prayers of the Faithful at our optional November Masses as we entrust them to God's loving care and mercy. If you would like to have your loved ones remembered in the November Masses, please email me and I will add their names to the book of Remembrance, and we will pray for them.

Prayer for the Faithful Departed

Loving God,

We thank you for the lives of those who have gone before us in faith. We remember our family members, friends, and all the faithful departed.

Grant them eternal rest in your loving presence. Comfort those who mourn and fill our hearts with hope in the promise of the Resurrection.

Help us to live as your faithful disciples, trusting in your mercy and love.

May all the souls of the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace.

Amen.

"Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them."

Catherine Sandric

Religious Education Coordinator