November 2025: Month of the Holy Souls
This month begins with the Solemnity of All Saints on November 1, followed by the Feast of All Souls on November 2. "All Saints" day honors all the souls who are already in Heaven, while "All Souls" day commemorates those in Purgatory who are being purified on their way to Heaven.
Throughout November, we are encouraged to pray especially for our departed loved ones, the Holy Souls in Purgatory. This is one of the best ways to fulfill the Fourth Commandment to honor our parents and the Great Commandment to love our neighbors. Many souls remain in Purgatory because they have no one to pray for them, making this an important opportunity for us to assist them.
A "plenary indulgence," which is essentially the release of a single soul from Purgatory into Heaven, can be obtained by visiting any cemetery—Catholic or not—on any day between November 1 and November 8, and praying devoutly for the departed.
Additionally, offering prayers during November, particularly by celebrating a Mass or offering your Holy Communion for the sake of the departed, will aid in their swift journey to Heaven.