*REFLECTION FOR THE COMMERATION OF ALL SOULS* 

Following the celebration of the glorified- All Saints yesterday, today we Commemorate All the Faithful Departed, the baptized who, though dead from earthly life, are yet to attain beatific vision. 

   The reading from the book of Wisdom reminds and reassures us that those who have died are truly in the hands of God. This is because God loves us so much and will provide more than we can ever imagine (Wis 3: 1-9). Even as we are still living in sin, Christ died to save us so that we can be with Him in His Kingdom (Rm 5: 5-11). 

  Dear friends, today we respectfully show our union with those who have died and are making transition to the fullness of God's presence. With our love and prayers, we are united with them in the Communion of Saints in Christ Jesus. We are equally being called to relate with one another in love, for Christ is honoured in such ways. Jesus proclaims that He has come to do the will of the Father, and part of the Will of God the Father is raising up from the dead (physical and spiritual) all who believe in Him and share in His life (John 6: 37-40). Is my faith securely anchored on the fulfilment of this promise of Jesus to share His Kingdom of peace, joy and righteousness with me? 

   I pray that as we offer entreaty for our dead today, we will as well prepare for our own death; that through the intercession of our Blessed Mother Mary we will be gifted with a holy death when we are called back home. May the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God rest in peace. Have a prayer-full day!

 *@Fr Francis Onwunali*