· John 6:37–40
On All Souls’ Day, the Church prays for those who have died. A familiar name may bring gratitude, sorrow or feelings that remain unresolved. You do not have to tidy those feelings before praying. Jesus’ promise of resurrection gives us somewhere to bring our grief: to him, with hope in his mercy. Remember someone by name today, and include people who have nobody left to remember them. Love can take the form of intercession when conversation is no longer possible.
A question to sit with
Whom do I want to entrust to God’s mercy today?
One small step
Write the names of deceased loved ones on paper and pray for them, adding a prayer for the forgotten.
Pray
Jesus, receive those who have died into Your mercy. Bring them to the fullness of life with You, and comfort those who mourn. Amen.
Original reflection and prayer. The Scripture reference is chosen for personal reflection and is not necessarily the day’s Mass reading.