On All Souls Day, we remember those who have died and place them in God’s care. Scripture offers comfort through the Shepherd who walks with us in sorrow and Jesus’ promise to welcome those who come to him and raise them on the last day.
Remembering someone we love can bring both gratitude and sorrow. On this All Souls Day, the Church invites us to bring those feelings before God, trusting in his care and the hope Christ gives.
The Word
Read the USCCB readings for the Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed.
Wisdom speaks of the just as being in God’s hands. Psalm 23 pictures the Lord as a shepherd who stays near, even in the dark valley. The second reading may be Romans 5:5–11 or Romans 6:3–9; both point toward hope through Christ. In the Gospel, Jesus promises not to reject those who come to him and to raise them on the last day.
Reflection
Grief does not need to be hidden from God. Psalm 23 gives us words for difficult valleys and reminds us that the Shepherd remains at our side. We can bring our memories, questions, and longing into prayer.
The readings also call us to hope in God’s faithfulness. The promise of resurrection does not erase the pain of loss, but it gives us reason to entrust the departed to Christ, who welcomes those who come to him.
Today, take a quiet moment to remember someone who has died. Give thanks for the good you received through that person, and ask God to hold them in mercy and peace.
Prayer
God of compassion, receive those who have died into your loving care. Comfort all who grieve, and strengthen our hope in Jesus, who promises to raise us to life. Amen.
Call to Action
Pray by name for someone who has died, and offer a word of comfort to someone who is grieving.
