BARBARA LATKOWSKI
Caledonia Courier
All Saints Day, also known as All
Hallows Day of All Saints, was celebrated
on Nov.1 by the Roman Catholic
Church and various protestant
denominations.
It celebrates and honours all
the saints, known and unknown. In
Catholic theology, All Saints Day remembers
those who have attained the
beautifi c vision in Heaven. In many
countries it is a national holiday.
In the Catholic Church and many
Anglican churches the next day, Nov.
2, is All Souls Day. This day specifi
cally commemorates the departed
faithful who have not yet reached
Heaven. Christians who celebrate
both occasions share a fundamental
belief that there is a spiritual bond between
those in Heaven and the living.
Catholics believe that through
prayers of the faithful on Earth, the
dead are cleansed of their sins so they
may enter into heaven.
Father Frank Salmon, pastor at Our
Lady of the Snows Catholic Church
in Fort St. James says that November
is the month that focuses on the deceased.
“Both days refl ect our saints
in Heaven and our dearly departed
relatives. Death does not sever any of
the bonds that unite us in Christ.”
On Nov.1, after morning mass, the
congregation of Our Lady of Snows
along with Fr. Salmon gathered at
the graves of their loved ones where
prayers and blessings were offered.
On Monday, Nov.2, a candlelight
mass was held at the old church, Our
Lady of Good Hope, were anyone could
bring photos of their departed loved ones
and share, pray and remember.