“The first of November is All Saints’ Day according to the Christian calendar. It is followed by All Souls’ Day which falls on the second of November when we commemorate the dead.” explained Rohan.

“That is why so many go to the cemetery on November second and leave flowers and wreaths at the tombs of their loved ones. There is also a mass celebrated in the evening by the Cardinal himself on All Souls’ Day at Kanatte.” replied Shalini.

“All Saints’ Day is the day on which Christians remember all those holy people who have been declared as Saints by the Catholic Church. They are the ones who have led exemplary lives on earth. Many of them have been martyred, dying sometimes under torture for the sake of the Christian church.” said Rohan.

“I believe that there are many ordinary people who have led holy lives but who have not been recognized as Saints for there were no miracles. But many Catholics pray to the Saint they prefer to intercede on their behalf with God. Some Saints are considered more powerful than others, like St.Jude who is the Patron Saint of Lost Causes. If you have lost something valuable, many Christians pray to St.Anthony for help. Then there are those who pray to the ‘Infant Jesus of Prague’ Mother Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ, also has a following and many pray for her intercession with her Son.” said Shalini.

“There are many Saints to pray to but it is good for Christians to pray to God the Father and the Son and Holy Spirit.” remarked Rohan.

“And when we die, we must pray to go to Heaven. All Souls’ Day is a reminder to respect the dead.” concluded Shalini.

By Sirohmi