The Solemnity of All Saints: November 01, 2026
Readings: Revelation 7:2–4, 9–14; Psalm 24:1–6; 1 John 3:1–3; Matthew 5:1–12
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| The Forerunners of Christ with Saints and Martyrs by Fra Angelico |
The month of November is very special to us. We remember in this month all those who have gone before us. We fondly reminisce about those who are dear and near ones, who are no more with us on this earth. With great faith, we continue to pray for them, hoping that one day, we too may join them. Being baptized in the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, they started their journey in the person of Jesus Christ in His Church. The Church recognizes some as Saints and Blessed. We pray through their intercession, hoping to imitate them as we continue our life journey. On this Sunday, we celebrate the Solemnity of All Saints and the following day, All Souls. The liturgical readings on this Sunday invite us to listen to Jesus as he preaches the Sermon on the Mount and calls us to be "blessed" always.
1. Call to Holiness is for All
The Solemnity of All Saints is a celebration of the countless men and women who have reached the fullness of life with God. Some saints are known throughout the world, their names remembered in churches and history books. Others lived quiet, hidden lives of faithfulness, love, and sacrifice, known only to a few. Today, the Church celebrates them all. Their lives remind us that holiness is not reserved for a select few; it is the calling of every Christian.
The Gospel Matthew 5:1–12 presents us with the Beatitudes, the beautiful and challenging words of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus offers us a vision of life that is radically different from the values of the world. The world admires power, wealth, influence, success, and recognition. Jesus, however, blesses the poor in spirit, the meek, those who mourn, the merciful, the pure of heart, and those who hunger and thirst for righteousness. These are the people who reveal the true face of God's kingdom.
2. Remaining Simple is Holiness
Jesus begins with the words, “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” Poverty of spirit does not mean that we must lack material possessions. It means recognizing that we are not self-sufficient, that we need God, and that everything we have is ultimately a gift.
The saints understood this truth. They took the words of Jesus seriously. They did not consider themselves superior to others because of their achievements, intelligence, wealth, or spiritual accomplishments. Instead, they remained humble before God and compassionate towards others.
3. Holiness is Placing God First
In our world, we often feel compelled to prove ourselves. We want to be noticed, appreciated, praised, and acknowledged. Even our service to others can sometimes become an opportunity to seek recognition. The Beatitudes invite us to examine our hearts. Can we serve without expecting applause? Can we accept correction without becoming defensive? Can we acknowledge our limitations without feeling humiliated?
Holiness begins when we stop placing ourselves at the centre and allow God to take the central place in our lives. The saints teach us that humility is not weakness; it is the freedom to become the people God has created us to be. God is close to those who experience sorrow, loss, injustice, and pain. He sends saints to those who are hungry, the sick, the abandoned, the poor, and the oppressed. May our saints accompany us always.
Questions for Personal Reflection
- Which of the Beatitudes speaks most directly to my life at this moment, and why?
- Do my daily attitudes and actions reflect the values of Jesus or the values of the world?
- What one concrete step can I take today to become a better disciple of Christ?
Heavenly Father, I thank you for the countless saints who have reflected your love and holiness throughout the ages. Through their lives, you have shown me that holiness is not beyond my reach but a grace-filled journey open to all who seek you sincerely. May the example of all the saints inspire me to discover your presence in the ordinary events of my life and to serve you faithfully in the people I encounter each day. I make this prayer in Jesus' Holy Name. Amen.
- Fr. Olvin Veigas, SJ
E-mail: olvinveigas@jesuits.net
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