All Souls' Day

Observed by Christians on November 2, the All Souls’ Day is a holy day to honour and remember the dear ones who have passed. In Christian tradition, All Souls' Day was popularized by French monks who designated a specific day for remembering the dead in 998 AD. It started as a local event but soon spread throughout the Catholic Church during the next century. The main traditions of All Souls' Day are associated with the notion of purgatory. Bells are tolled to comfort those being cleansed and candles are lit to guide poor souls languishing in the darkness. In many countries, cakes are distributed among children. Singing and prayer meets are also organized.