November is dedicated to the Holy Souls. We remember our loved ones who have passed, pray for them, and prepare for the closing of the liturgical year. This November, we remember that Christ is our light in the darkness.
Christ gives us comfort and hope in our trials and in tragedy, He is our light in the darkness. How joyful it is that we have a faith that can ultimately defy darkness and despair. We are called to be the salt and light of the world. We can bring the light of Christ to others who are struggling or grieving.
A MONTH OF HOPE
In a world often filled with shadows, Jesus stands as our beacon of hope. His love illuminates our paths, providing clarity and direction when we feel lost. Through His teachings, we are reminded that even the darkest moments can be transformed by the light of faith. Even death on a cross can not hold down God, and when we put our faith in Christ, we will rise with Him.
It is easy to forget this joyful reality. We can be fearful, despairing, tempted, and at times, we will see others suffering or passing on. November is dedicated to the Holy Souls as a reminder to pray for those who go before us, and that life doesn’t end with death.
“The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” (John 1:5).
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St. Francis Xavier Basilica, Vincennes, IN
TO BE A LIGHT TO OTHERS
As we reflect on the light of Christ, we invite you to join us in spreading this light within our neighborhoods and beyond. Engage in service, outreach, and fellowship opportunities that embody the love of Jesus. By sharing His light, we can bring hope to those who are struggling and create a ripple effect of positivity and faith.
This time of year, it’s a great opportunity to donate to your local soup kitchen, increase our prayers, and to reach out to others, especially if they have loved ones who’ve passed on or if they themselves need support going through loss. If you’re not sure how to be of service in that way, here are a few tips:
- Serve. Don’t Save. It’s amazing how much one person can help someone just by listening and showing that you care for them. Don’t think that you have to save the day or solve someone’s grief. Just be there and be available for them. If someone is dealing with a great amount of grief, encourage them to seek professional help.
- Share Your Experience. The worst part about suffering is when you feel like it will last forever. If you’re comfortable, you can support someone by sharing your own experience. Letting people know that they’re not alone is a strong source of comfort.
ALL THINGS COME FULL CIRCLE
During this time of year, we remember those who’ve passed on, and those who are struggling. For us who have faith, let’s remember what good we believe in, and what awaits us after all our trials. As the liturgical year closes, it begins anew, just like our own lives. There is more beyond our earthly life. Our eternal life begins when we are baptized and know Christ.
REMEMBERING THOSE WHO HAVE GONE BEFORE
How To Remember The Departed This November:
- Ask your friends and family for the names of any loved ones they want to be prayed for this month.
- Talk to your priest and have a Mass offered for those who’ve gone before.
- Dedicate a rosary for your loved ones.