My beloved brothers and sisters,
Praise to you Lord Jesus!
A parishioner asked me about “halloween,” and in my research, I found that it originates from the Celtic festival of Samhain, marking the end of summer and the harvest. Then, in the 8th century Pope Gregory III designated November 1 as “All Saints Day,” honoring all saints; the preceding evening became “All Hallows Eve.” November 2 was later established as “All Souls Day” to honor the dead; remembering the deceased. Thus, the term “Halloween” comes from “All Hallows’ Eve,” the night before the Christian festival of All Hallows’ (or All Saints’) Day. Some Christians reflect on this connection, while others find themselves in a position of not wanting to participate in practices they believe conflict with their faith. Maybe, if we create saint costumes for “All Saints’ Day,” it will offer a meaningful reflection on the lives of holy people and the universal call to holiness. This way, instead of a frightening Halloween costume, this practice will help families focus on faith, virtue, and the communion of saints.
Our readings this weekend, encourages us with hope that God’s love is stronger than death and we who belong to Him are safe in God’s eternal embrace. Our first reading, emphasizes that the “souls of the righteous” are at peace, their hope is full of immortality and they will be greatly blessed after being tested “like gold in the furnace.” Assuring us that we who trust in the Lord God will understand the truth and abiding love. This is not a promise of an easy life but hope that provides strength and peace in hardship and loss. In the second reading, we hear the promise of a new heaven and earth, where God will dwell and all suffering will be eliminated. It offers us the ultimate renewal, where the old world passes away and a perfect, peaceful new creation established by God as an ultimate fulfillment. This is the message of hope, assuring that God’s final trustworthy word is making all things new.
Our Gospel, reveals to us how Jesus is compassionate, showing us His power over death and providing a glimpse of the resurrection to come. This passage illustrates, Jesus’ deep empathy for the grieving widow, and the hope that He offers not just for physical life but for spiritual life as well. The miracle affirms that Jesus is the “God of the Living,” not the dead, a truth that can comfort and inspire us especially those who are suffering a loss. This offers us hope. Because Jesus lives, we can have abundant life, both now and forever. AMEN.
God Loves You!
~ Fr. NEIL