Shillong, Nov 2: Catholic faithful on Sunday thronged cemeteries across in Meghalaya to remember their loved ones on the occasion of All Souls’ Day.
The All Souls’ Day, a day dedicated to prayer and remembrance for the departed, was observed through prayers, Holy Mass and lighting of candles in the cemeteries.
A special Mass was held at the Catholic cemetery in Shillong by Most Rev. Archbishop Victor Lyngdoh. Families and friends adorned graves with flowers and candles, offering prayers for the repose of the souls of the departed. Through acts of prayer, intercession and almsgiving, the Catholics commemorated the souls in purgatory and seek indulgences on their behalf.
In Nongpoh, the Holy Mass was offered by Father Raphael Risterland Maiong, with parishioners gathering to reflect on the hope of eternal life and the promise of resurrection.
At the Cathedral Cemetery in Tura, Most Rev. Andrew R Marak, Bishop of Tura, led the special Holy Mass as the main celebrant. Faithful from various parishes attended in large numbers, offering prayers, lighting candles and singing hymns in memory of their departed loved ones. In his homily, Bishop Marak urged the faithful “to strengthen their faith in the resurrection and to live lives of hope and charity.” The observance reflected the deep devotion of the Garo Catholic community and their enduring belief in eternal life through Christ.
Despite heavy rain and muddy conditions, the Catholic community of Williamnagar gathered in large numbers at the Balsrigittim Catholic Cemetery to mark the day. The Holy Mass was celebrated by Fr. John Thomas, Parish Priest of Sacred Heart Church, together with other priests and nuns from the area.
In his message, Fr. Thomas highlighted the spiritual significance of the day, reminding the faithful “to keep alive the memories of the departed through faith, prayer, and love.” Following the Mass, priests visited each grave, blessing them with holy water as a mark of reverence.
