News by, Mr John Menezes, Moodbidri
Nov.1: The Feast of All Saints celebrated on 1st November.The mass was celebrated at 7.00 a.m. by the Parish Priest V. Rev. Fr. Austin Peres with co-celebrant Rev. Fr. Arun Lobo.
Today’s message is: “We believe in Holy Catholic church –The communion of Saints”. The Holy Church reminds us to live a life of holiness to accomplish the meaning and aim of living
The Feast of All Saints is a holy day of the Church honouring all saints, known and unknown. While we have information about many saints, whom we honour on specific days, there are many unknown or unsung saints, who may have been forgotten, or never been specifically honoured. On All Saints Day, we celebrate these saints of the Lord, and ask for their prayers and intercessions.
The whole concept of All Saints Day is tied in with the concept of the Communion of Saints. This is the belief that all of God’s people, on heaven, earth, and in the state of purification, are connected in a communion. In other words, Catholic and Orthodox Christians believe that the saints of God are just as alive like any human person and are constantly interceding on our behalf.
The Gospel chosen for today’s feast gives us the Eight Beatitudes which form the beginning of the Sermon on the Mount. It is in fact a charter for holiness. Jesus proclaims that those believers who are currently in dire situations will ultimately share in the blessedness of God. The First Reading from the book of Revelation presents an apocalyptic vision of those who have died in Christ. They represent every nation, tribe and language and now stand before God and give thanks to him for the gift of salvation. The Second Reading from the First Letter of John reminds us of the great love of God who has chosen to call us His children and now enables us to be his saints.
Today Karnataka Rajyothsava day and Fr Austin asked to pray for our leaders; May God guide them to serve the people with love and self sacrifice avoiding all malice that makes them power hungry.
Many adults attended the mass but there were few children which is alarming that our children and youth should wake up to God’s call.
Please Note: Those who visit a cemetery/church between 1st and 8th November and pray for the faithful departed, may obtain a plenary indulgence, applicable only to the holy souls.
Eternal rest, grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace. Amen
