All the Deceased of the Franciscan Orders

 

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The Commemoration of All the Deceased of the Seraphic Order—honoring all departed members of the Franciscan family—was historically observed on November 24th. The date was later changed to make room for the universal Church’s memorial of Saint Andrew Dung-Lac and Companions, the Martyrs of Vietnam, now celebrated worldwide on that day. Because of this adjustment, the Franciscan commemoration is observed on an alternate date in November, which can vary according to the local Franciscan calendar or community tradition.

This observance closely echoes the spirit of All Souls’ Day (November 2nd), when the entire Catholic Church prays for all the faithful departed. Both celebrations share the same theological foundation: a deep hope in the Resurrection and the conviction that death marks not an end, but a passage into the fullness of life in God. The Church dedicates the entire month of November to remembering the dead and interceding for the Holy Souls in Purgatory.

From a Catholic perspective, death is understood not as something to fear, but as the doorway to eternal life—an idea that resonates with cultural expressions such as the Día de los Muertos traditions, which use color, joy, and remembrance to reflect on the mystery of death. In this same spirit of hope, the Franciscan family remembers their deceased brothers and sisters, entrusting them to the mercy and glory of God.

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