Why We Pray

The All Souls Novena is a time of holy prayer and remembrance. For nine days, we pause to pray for the faithful departed, those whose lives shaped our own and whose love still echoes in our hearts. We entrust them to the loving mercy of God.

This is not simply a tradition. It is a spiritual work of mercy. The Church teaches that “prayer for the dead is one of the greatest acts of charity” (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1032). In praying, we offer love that endures beyond death. St. Paul reminds us:

“If we have died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him.” —Romans 6:8

This is our hope. This is our promise. In Christ, death is not the end—it is the beginning of eternal life.

What to Expect

Each novena day offers a moment of reflection, a Scripture passage, and a prayer for the souls of the departed. These prayers are offered by the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate, who carry your intentions to the altar with reverence and love.

You are invited to submit the names of loved ones for remembrance in our daily Masses and prayers. Whether you are mourning a recent loss or remembering someone from long ago, this novena is a sacred moment for prayer and remembrance in gratitude and hope.

A Mission Rooted in Mercy

The Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate were founded to serve those most in need. That includes the forgotten dead—those who have no one to pray for them, no one to speak their name. We remember and honor their dignity. And we entrust them to the God who knows every soul by name.

“The Lord is good to all, compassionate toward all his works.” —Psalm 145:9

By joining this novena, you help ensure that no soul is forgotten and that every prayer becomes a gift of mercy. It is a way to love those who can no longer speak, to carry their memory with grace, and to offer our grief as sacred prayer.

A Light That Never Fades

“The souls of the righteous are in the hand of God, and no torment shall touch them.” —Wisdom 3:1

Though the novena ends, our prayers do not. The journey of remembrance deepens. In Christ, love never ends. Peace is everlasting. And every soul entrusted to God is held in light.

Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May their souls and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen.