All Souls Day

"Lex orandi lex credendi": we pray the way we believe; the nature of the faith is revealed by the nature of our prayers.

Introit

"Just as Jesus died and rose again, so will the Father bring with him those who have died in Jesus. Just as in Adam, all men die, so in Christ all will be made alive" (1 Thess 4:14; 1 Cor 15:22).

Opening Prayer

Let us pray [for all our departed brothers and sisters].

Merciful Father, hear our prayers and console us. As we renew our faith in your Son, whom you raised from the dead, strengthen our hope that all our departed brothers and sisters will share in his resurrection, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen

Offertory

Lord, we are united in this sacrament by the love of Jesus Christ. Accept these gifts and receive our brothers and sisters into the glory of your Son, who is Lord for ever and ever.

Preface

The recommended prefaces are those for Christian Death I-V (P 77-81).

Communion

"I am the resurrection and the life, says the Lord. If anyone believes in me, even though he dies, he will live. Anyone who lives and believes in me will not die" (Jn 11:25-26).

Concluding Prayer

"Lord God, may the death and resurrection of Christ which we celebrate in this eucharist bring the departed faithful to the peace of your eternal home. We ask this in the name of Jesus the Lord."