All Saints Day

All Saints Day is a holiday celebrated in many countries under different names, such as Todos Los Santos in Spain. This Christian observance is dedicated to honoring all saints recognized in Christian history. Churches including Roman Catholic, Lutheran, Methodist, Eastern Orthodox, and Eastern Catholic celebrate All Saints Day, usually on November 1 each year, or on the Sunday after Pentecost in some traditions.

History

The tradition of celebrating All Saints Day dates back to the fourth century, originally marked on the Sunday following Pentecost. The first recorded event was on May 13, 609, when Pope Boniface IV dedicated the Pantheon in Rome to the Virgin Mary and all martyrs. In 835, Pope Gregory III moved the celebration to November 1, expanding it to include all saints and those whose holiness is known only to God. Historians believe this shift was meant to replace the pagan holiday Samhain. Despite this, many pagan customs—such as dressing up to avoid spirits on the night before—have survived and influenced modern Halloween traditions.

Interesting Facts

• In 1770, the church removed All Saints Day from its official list of holidays, though it is still widely celebrated.
• All Saints Day is especially important in Catholicism, where attendance at Mass is required.
• Mass is not held on adjacent Mondays or Saturdays that border Bright Sunday (the Sunday after Easter).
• On All Saints Day, churches read the Beatitudes and honor everyone who has died in the past year.

How to Take Part

Share information about All Saints Day on social media, read about the lives of saints, and consider following their principles in your own life. Use the hashtag #allsaintsday. If you are a believer, say a prayer to all the saints, remember their good deeds, and attend church or Mass.

When is All Saints Day in 2025?

All Saints Day is observed on November 1 each year.

Observations