JOHN PAUL II

ANGELUS

Solemnity of All Saints
Monday, 1 November 2004

1. "Let us all rejoice in the Lord on this solemnity of all Saints". With this joyful invitation, today begins the Eucharistic Celebration in honour of All the Saints. The pilgrim Church on earth lifts its gaze to Heaven and exultantly joins the choir of those with whom God shares his glory. It is the communion of saints!

2. Appropriately in light of this wonderful mystery, we will celebrate tomorrow the Commemoration of all the faithful departed. The Liturgy invites us to broaden our hearts and pray for everyone, especially for the souls most in need of divine mercy.

I raise a special prayer to God for all victims of terrorism. I feel spiritually close to their families, and while I ask God to ease their sorrow, I appeal to him for peace in the world.

3. May Mary, Queen of All Saints, help us to faithfully follow Christ, in order to reach the glory of Heaven.

© Copyright 2004 - Libreria Editrice Vaticana