On November 2, Christians around the world will observe All Souls Day.

It is an opportunity to pray in a special way for departed loved ones who are being readied to enter into eternal life, fully and joyously united with God.

Our Vincentian priests and brothers would like to pray for those deceased souls closest to you.

Send your “Remembrance List” with the names of the relatives and friends that come to mind before October 15. The names you share with us will be placed near the foot of Mary’s Shrine Altar, and remembered during the Association’s All Souls Day Mass, throughout November, and during the anniversary month of their passing.

The Carrara marble sculpture of Michelangelo’s Pietà, captures the moment when Jesus was taken down from the cross, and laid in the arms of Mary. The image of this masterpiece assures us that Mary knows the depths of our sorrow. Holding the crucified body of Jesus, she grieves while at the same time gently presenting the body of Christ to us, the viewer. Our Blessed Mother shares in our sorrows and will be with us in every trial endured.

It is my prayer that, like Our Blessed Mother, you will persevere in faith, hope, and love.

When you return to us the names of departed loved ones for remembrance on All Souls Day, you may also burn a Votive Light for them. It is a beautiful way to ask Jesus, the Light of the World, to welcome them into the fullness of heaven. Simply check the Votive Light box on your reply slip and return it with the suggested offering by mail.

You may also share any other prayer requests. They will also be presented to Our Blessed Mother, asking for her loving intercession.

Any offering you include will further AMM’s work. We rely on members to help us draw more souls to Jesus through devotion to Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal. Offerings enable us to annually distribute more than one million free, blessed Miraculous Medals to anyone who asks.

AMM also provides daily spiritual care through prayer and personal connections. We respond to thousands of phone calls, letters, and emails each month, praying with and for members and friends.

Finally, you may also “opt in” to begin receiving emails from Our Lady’s Association. These messages help unite our members more closely in prayer and offer you opportunities to share your personal petitions all year long. Simply call 1-800-264-MARY (6279) with your request, and we will be happy to include you in future emails.

All Souls Day is a beautiful occasion to remember those who have gone before us. Please be assured of our prayerful support and our gratitude for your place in the spiritual family of the Association of the Miraculous Medal.

May God bless your efforts to serve him and draw you ever closer to himself.

In the love of Jesus and Mary,

P.S.  Mary holds you in her arms. We hold you in prayer. Please take a moment in the next few days to send me the names of your deceased family and friends for AMM’s All Souls Day Mass.

I share this reply from one member who felt great comfort through AMM’s continued prayers on the anniversary of her husband’s passing:

“Thank you and bless you … You should know how much your letter did for my faith … It assured me that the prayer requests I submitted for Our Lady’s intercession … are truly being entrusted to her. Also, your words did so much to help me. I have finally accepted my husband’s death. I am now finding peace with the help of Our Lord and Our Lady.”