ALL SOULS' DAY
A Catholic priest celebrating Mass for the Dead Here are meaning, historical development, theological significance, and faith importance of All Souls’ Day in the Roman Catholic Church. Meaning of All Souls’ Day All Souls’ Day, officially called The Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed, is observed annually on November 2 in the Roman Catholic Church. The day is dedicated to praying for the souls of all the faithful departed, especially those in Purgatory, who are believed to be undergoing purification before entering heaven (Catechism of the Catholic Church [CCC], 1997, §1030–1032). It follows All Saints’ Day (November 1) and reflects the doctrine of the Communion of Saints the spiritual unity of the faithful on earth (Church Militant), the souls in Purgatory (Church Suffering), and the saints in heaven (Church Triumphant). Catholics believe that prayers, Masses, and indulgences offered on this day can assist the departed in reaching the presence of God (Pope Benedict XV, 19...