The Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed

Today's Mass Readings

“Everything that the Father gives me will come to me, and I will not reject anyone who comes to me.” (John 6:37)

All Souls’ Day draws me into a quiet space of remembering my departed relatives and those I never knew. The Abbey grounds are beautiful this time of year, the trees turning color, the air cool and damp, and the faint scent of earth. It feels right that the Church gives us this day to remember the departed and our own mortality.

Jesus says, “I will not reject anyone who comes to me.” These are words I need to hear, and words I need to trust—for those I’ve known and loved, and for myself.

I find myself thinking of the many monks before me who have prayed in these choir stalls. Their names are etched on headstones now in the cemetery, but their lives are still remembered on their anniversaries of death. I think of the many people who entrust the memory of themselves and their loved ones to us. Each had their own unique story filled with hopes and dreams, good times and bad. We lift their souls to God.

Our remembrance today is not an act of despair, but of communion. Death does not sever the bonds of love; it purifies them. Old hurts pass away; current ones are put in perspective. Death will gather us all together—the living and the departed—for Christ is Lord of the living and the dead (Rom 14:9). And He promises to raise us all on the last day.

So today, as vigil lights burn, as litanies are chanted, and as we process to the nearby cemetery—we trust again in Jesus’ assurance: none are lost who come to Him. And one day, by His mercy, we too shall be found at home in God.

Reflection by Br. Luke Kral, OSB