Solemnity of All Saints and Commemoration of All Souls

This coming week includes two important celebrations for us as a Catholic Community: The Solemnity of All Saints (Nov. 1) and the Commemoration of All Souls (Nov. 2). As a Hispanic Serving Institution, these celebrations take on a special significance in the celebration of Dia de Los Muertos. As we celebrate these great examples of faith – those known to many as Saints, and those loved ones whose legacy is remembered among our family and friends; I invite you to the following special celebrations:

• Sunday, Oct. 28, 6 p.m.: Student Mass and dedication of our campus Ofrenda at the Chapel of St. Basil
• Monday, Oct. 29, 9 a.m.: Rosary in Spanish at the Chapel of St. Basil
• Tuesday, Oct. 30, 3:30 p.m.: Death Over Pan Dulce Event at the Center for Faith and Culture and Campus Ministry (for all students)
• Thursday, Nov. 1, 12:30 p.m.: Mass for All Saints Day (Bilingual)
• Thursday, Nov. 1, 5 p.m.: Mass for All Saints Day (English)
  NOTE: This is a Holy Day of Obligation in the United States
• Friday, Nov. 2, 12:30 p.m.: Mass for All Souls and special memorial celebration of alumni who have passed

Throughout the week, the Ofrenda will be located just outside the main doors of the Chapel. You are welcome to leave a photo of your loved ones there if you would like. When we take the Ofrenda down, we will bring any photos and frames to the Center for Faith and Culture for you to pick up later.

Beginning on Nov. 1, there will be a “Book of Remembrance” in the Chapel as well. That book will remain there for the month of November. You are invited to write the names of those loved ones in the book. Those names will be included in the prayers of community throughout the month.

Lastly, I ask your prayers for all those students who will be on retreat beginning on November 2 – 4 as part of the UST Fall Retreat. These students remind us that as busy as we all are, we cannot forget to pause and give thanks for the many blessings we have known. In the same way, may all of us take time to gather as a community as we celebrate the Saints and Souls who have, and continue, to make a difference in our lives.

Saint Basil, Saint Thomas, and all the Saints – Pray for us!