For the week ahead some important reminders

On this quiet Sunday night it has dawned on me that we Catholics have quite a week ahead.  Locally, across the nation and far away countries this is a busy week.  While most of the folks out there will be celebrating Halloween tomorrow truly is all hallows eve.  The day simply was a reminder, a preparation if you will, for the Feast Of All Saints Day.  So Tuesday, November 1st is indeed All Saints Day; a holy day obligation.  Just like we are obliged to attend Mass on Sundays we too are obliged to attend Tuesday.  Many churches will hold a vigil Monday evening.  Locally, at Most Holy Trinity, our vigil is early; 4 p.m.  Churches are strongly encouraged to have several options for Tuesday, All Saints Day, to accomodate those working and in school.  We have planned the normal 8:45 but are adding 12:10 p.m. and 7 p.m.  Again, please remember All Saints Day is a holy day of obligation but go and celebrate Mass more than just because it's an obligation!

All Saints Day connects us all to the communion of Saints.  On this day we remember all the Saints who have gone before us and have showed us the path of holiness to follow.

Wednesday, November 2nd is All Souls Day.  This is the day to really remember our beloved dead.  Of course many believe we should do this on All Saints but All Souls is more appropriate.  Many churches have a special Mass on the 2nd to remember the dead from the previous year.  At Most Holy Trinity we will have such a celebration at 7 p.m. on Wednesday night.

Finally, as a reminder, Friday is First Friday and so many Catholic Churches will have a period of Adoration and Benediction and perhaps a rememberance of the Sacred Heart of Jesus.  In our local parish, in addition to Adoration and Benediction, we are having a healing Mass with the famous Catholic evangelist/healer Alan Ames.  That date is November 4th and Mass begins at 7 p.m.  Our normal Adoration will happen at the usual times.

Wherever you may be please take time to remember All Saints Day(a holy day of obligation) and All Souls Day and 1st Friday!