More than 2,000 Catholics gathered at Radakaw Catholic Cemetery in the Diocese of Myitkyina on November 2 to pray for the souls of the departed on All Souls’ Day.

Bishop Francis Daw Tang led the celebration, joined by 19 priests and religious sisters. The faithful came together to celebrate Mass and remember their loved ones who have died.

Three Masses were held during the day. The 4:00 p.m. Mass was presided over by Fr. Bernard Dashi Tang Ji, while Fr. Joachim Tin Awng Lin delivered the homily.

In his homily, Fr. Joachim explained the three states of the Church as taught in the Catechism of the Catholic Church: the Pilgrim Church on earth, the Church undergoing purification, and the Church Triumphant in heaven.

He said the Pilgrim Church means the faithful still living on earth and journeying toward the Kingdom of God. He stressed the importance of living a life of faith and good works while preparing to meet God.

He also spoke about praying for the souls being purified, and noted that those who have reached heaven see the face of God and pray for the faithful on earth. These three states, he said, remain united in Christ through the Communion of Saints.

To explain the importance of faith, Fr. Joachim shared a story about a family who lit a candle at the entrance of their home. The parents had started the tradition to guide travellers safely home, and their children continued it even after the parents passed away.

Through this story, he said faith is like a light that guides people on life’s journey. He encouraged the faithful to keep the light of faith burning and to prepare for eternal life.

Fr. Joachim also referred to the parable of the ten bridesmaids, five wise and five foolish. He said spiritual preparation should not be put off until the last moment, but the faithful are called to stay ready through a life of faith.

He then shared the story of St. Augustine and his mother, St. Monica. Before she died, St. Monica asked her son to remember her in his celebration of the Mass and in his prayers. Through this account, Fr. Joachim stressed the importance of praying for deceased parents, relatives, and loved ones.

All Souls’ Day is not only a time to remember those who have died. It is also a chance for the faithful to reflect on their own lives of faith and prepare for eternal life. The faithful are encouraged to pray for their departed loved ones, take part in the Eucharist, and keep living in faith, hope, and charity.

By RVA Rawang Service