ALL SAINTS DAY!
This Feast of all Saints was instituted by Pope Gregory III (731-741), when a Chapel was consecrated to all Martyrs in St. Peter's Basilica in Rome. Originally this Feast was celebrated only within Rome. But Pope Gregory IV (827-844) extended this celebration to entire church. This Feast was first celebrated in the early fourth century in Antioch during Easter seasons, as mentioned by St. Ephraim the Syrian. This is a very important festival of all saints, known and unknown. As we all know martyrs were increased during the Roman persecutions against Christians, there are so many martyrs unknown to Christians, who have martyred for the cause of Christianity. Since there was no formal Papal Canonization of saints before 993, this feast enables us to pray with the earlier Christian martyrs for their intercession in our causes.
The Vigil or Eve of the feast of all saints is known as all Hallows Eve or Halloween. The word Hallow as a noun means saint and the word Hallow as a verb means to make something holy or to honour something holy
Both the feasts of all saints day and Halloween are celebrated from the 8th century onwards.
May All the saints intercede before the Throne of God for us and assist us in our earthly lives till we join them in our Heavenly home through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Queen of All Saints. Amen!
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