The solemnity of All Saints, Wednesday, Nov. 1, during which Catholics celebrate and honor the heroes of the faith, is a holy day of obligation, meaning that the faithful are required to attend Mass.
As early as the fourth century, a day has been set aside to honor all martyrs. It was in the seventh century that May 13 in Rome was introduced as the “feast of All the Holy Martyrs” by Pope Boniface IV. By the 12th century, the date had been transferred to Nov. 1 in the universal church.
On the following day, the commemoration of All the Faithful Departed (All Souls’ Day), the church prays that those who have died will rest with God. It’s not a holy day of obligation, but many choose to attend Mass to pray and seek intercession for their deceased loved ones.
Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito will celebrate All Souls’ Day with a 10 a.m. Mass Thursday, Nov. 2, at Our Lady Queen of Peace Cemetery, 10941 Southern Blvd. in Royal Palm Beach, in the outdoor chapel. To contact the cemetery, visit www.ourqueen.org or follow it on Facebook.
