St. Bede-St. Denis Parish Home

Dear St. Bede & St. Denis Family, 

 

I am grateful and joyful to serve as your new associate pastor. These past four months have been a blessing, and I already feel at home in this community. Together, we’ve taken beautiful steps on our journey toward Christ, and I’m excited for all that lies ahead. I look forward to sharing reflections with you in our parish bulletin each first Sunday of the month as we continue walking together, growing in faith, and experiencing God’s love and grace.
 
As we enter November, we approach two important days that connect us with the Communion of Saints and our loved ones who have passed: the Feast of All Saints on November 1st and the Day of the Faithful Departed, or All Souls Day, on November 2nd. Each of these celebrations deepens our understanding of the universal Church and reminds us of the promise of eternal life.

 

All Saints Day honors the devoted men and women, known and unknown, who now rejoice with God in heaven. This day reminds us of our call to holiness and our hope to join the saints one day. Each saint’s life witnesses God’s grace at work in the world, and we can look to them for guidance, strength, and intercession. The Church invites us to celebrate this day by attending Mass, reflecting on the lives of the saints, and asking for their prayers.

 

Also, the Day of the Faithful Departed follows on November 2nd and is a day of prayer for all souls who have passed, particularly those in purgatory who are being purified before entering heaven. On All Souls Day, we pray for our loved ones who have gone before us, entrusting them to God’s mercy and love. Offering Mass for the dead, lighting candles, or visiting the graves of family members are beautiful ways to remember and honor them. That day, I'll be praying specially for my grandma, who days two weeks ago.
 
Therefore, these two days are moments of hope and connection. They remind us that death is not the end but a step toward our eternal life with God. As a parish, let us join in prayer for all the saints and the faithful departed, asking that we may grow in holiness and one day rejoice with them in heaven.
 
Many blessings and much gratitude to each of you!
Happy month of November!

 

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