Honoring the faithful departed: A reflection on All Souls Day
By Allison Mosier11/03/2025
Each year on November 2, Catholics around the world observe All Souls Day—a tradition rooted in remembrance and prayer for the faithful departed. Across the 13 counties of the Diocese of Erie and in parishes around the world, the church gathers as one family of faith to honor those who have gone before us, trusting in God’s mercy and the promise of eternal life.
The observance of All Souls Day reminds the faithful that death does not sever the bonds of love. Through prayer, the celebration of Mass and the lighting of candles, Catholics unite in a profound act of communion, lifting souls to God and finding comfort in the hope of resurrection. In churches large and small, the names of the departed are spoken aloud, candles glow softly before the altar and families come together to remember those they miss most.
For Rich Papalia, webmaster for the Diocese of Erie, this year’s All Souls Day carried deep personal meaning. “All Souls Day has always resonated with me,” he said, “but this year was different. It marked one year, to the weekend, since my brother passed away. Being there for the parish Mass of remembrance helped me see how powerful it is when the church prays for our loved ones together.”
At Holy Redeemer Parish in Warren, where his brother, Bob Papalia, was a longtime member, Rich attended the Mass on All Saints Day, as the Mass intention that day was offered in memory of his brother. Throughout the weekend, the parish also honored all those who had passed away during the past year. Two tables stood in front of the altar, each displaying white candles and cards bearing the names of parishioners who had died. “Seeing my brother’s name there was emotional,” Rich shared. “It was peaceful, though, knowing that his life was honored in the same church where he was married and where his faith took root.”
All Souls Day reinforces the beauty of Catholic teaching on the communion of saints and the eternal connection between heaven and earth. “It reminds us that our loved ones are never really gone,” Rich said. “They are still part of our story, and through prayer, we remain united with them in Christ.”
As candles flickered and names were spoken, the celebration at Holy Redeemer reflected what Catholics around the world experienced that day: the grace of remembering, the peace of prayer, and the hope that love endures beyond the grave.
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