President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is wishing for a meaningful observance of this year’s All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, as he encouraged Filipinos to reflect on everyone’s purpose and to remember the courage that the saints and their dearly departed have shown for the people to be empowered in facing present challenges.

“As we celebrate the saints’ staunch devotion and the legacies of those who have gone before us, let us reflect on our purpose and our unceasing need for God’s guidance. At the same time, let us remember the courage that our saints and dearly departed have shown amidst their plight so that we may be empowered to be bold in living with and for Christ no matter the difficulties that we face in this world,” President Marcos said on Wednesday, November 1, in his All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day message.

“Let the examples of faith demonstrated by our forebears bind us all in appreciating the joy of leading a virtuous life here on earth as well as in recognizing the promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ.”

Joining the Catholic community in commemorating this year’s occasions, Marcos said that the people’s earnest obedience to this holy obligation throughout the centuries has given birth to the traditions that Filipinos carry until today—traditions displaying the essence of the Filipino culture and giving utmost importance to faith and family.

“This time comes as a refreshing gift, for we can also enjoy reuniting with our loved ones while receiving much needed nourishment for out spiritual lives,” he said.

All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day are related, but are two separate celebrations. All Saints’ Day, a liturgical feast held annually on November 1, is a celebration of all Christian saints, particularly those who have no special feast days of their own.

All Souls’ Day, on the other hand is about all souls and call for God’s mercy, takes place on November 2, unless it falls on a Sunday. PND