With the temporary closure of both private and public cemeteries from Oct. 29 to Nov. 3, Archdiocese of Manila Archbishop Jose Cardinal Advincula called on the faithful to gather together as a family to pray for their departed loved ones.
The Church leader cited the importance of gathering together as a family to offer a prayer for departed loved ones and friends on All Saints Day and All Souls Day.
“We may gather together as a family and pray for our faithful departed even if we cannot visit them in cemeteries. The prayer that we offer for our loved ones is a sign of our love for them and a gesture that we remember them,” His Eminence said over Radio Veritas.
The Archdiocese of Manila’s Liturgical Commission has released a prayer for the departed which may be recited by families at home. The prayer may be downloaded from the Facebook page of parishes under the jurisdiction of the archdiocese.
Cardinal Advincula encouraged the faithful to attend the holy masses to offer prayers for the departed on Nov. 1 and 2.
"Although our cemeteries are closed, families may offer prayers and the holy mass for the departed. We may also go to church on Nov. 1 and 2 to pray for our departed loved ones,” the cardinal said.
Meanwhile, church-run Radio Veritas has launched the “Panalangin, Pag-Alala at Pagkilala” in memory of the departed. The faithful may offer prayers for their loved ones through the E-Mass Card. Interested parties may call 8925-7931 to 39 local 129 or 0917-631-4589 and look for Renee Jose.