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Yesterday we celebrated the feast of all those who are now with God. The Communion of Saints, where 'saint' refers to all those baptised in Christ, is formed of three groups. The first are those who can properly be called 'saints', that is, those who have died and are now enjoying a face to face relationship with God for all eternity. The second group, to which we belong, are those who are living on earth at the present time and are part of the Pilgrim Church on its way to ultimate union with God in unending happiness. The third group are those we are remembering today. They are those who have died but are not quite ready to meet God face to face. Most of us would surely acknowledge that we are far from perfect and that we still need to go through some purifying process before entering the eternal presence of God. What we are reminded of today is that those who are already in the eternal presence of God and we who are still on pilgrimage on earth can help the group we call 'Holy Souls' to reach the Vision of God sooner through the help of our good works and prayers. And so, although it is at all times a "holy and wholesome thought to pray for the dead", it is especially appropriate on this day. Naturally, we will remember especially family members and good friends but we should also think of those who may not have anyone to remember them. And, when our own time comes to leave this world, it is the prayers of those people on whom we will depend.
It is Your face, O Lord, I seek.
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DAILY OFFERING
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Eternal Father, I offer You everything I do this day; my thoughts, words, joys and sufferings. Grant that, vivified by the Holy Spirit and united to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary, my life this day may be of service to You and to others. I also pray that all those preparing for marriage discover in Sacrament the source of Christ's grace for living a fithful and fruitful love. Amen.
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PRAYING WITH THE CHURCH
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INTENTION
That priests who experience difficulties may find comfort in their suffering, support in their doubts, and confirmation in their fidelity.
Elaboration
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