Nagpur: For Christians across the world, November 2 is a day to remember those who passed away and honour the values they left behind. In Nagpur, All Souls’ Day was observed in Christian cemeteries where the glow of candles lit on graves and the sight of people praying for those who passed away hit a sombre note.Bishop Rt Rev Paranjyothy Sandela, Church of North India (CNI) Nagpur Diocese, said, “All Souls Day provides an opportunity to thank God for the lives of our departed loved ones, their contributions, sacrifices, service and witness. Their stories remind us that the Church is built not merely by institutions and structures, but by generations of faithful people who have served God and humanity.”For many families, the occasion is also about passing memories down generations. Children accompanying parents and grandparents learn about relatives they may never have met, while elders share stories of those who shaped their lives. “We bring our children here so they understand their family roots and learn about the people whose sacrifices and values continue to guide us,” said Prerna Singh, who was visiting her grandparents’ grave.The observance has its roots in early Christian practices of praying for the departed. It was formally established in the Western Church through the influence of St Odilo, Abbot of Cluny, in 998 AD.“The central message of this day is that death is not the end of life for a believer; it is the passage into eternal life through Jesus Christ,” said Bishop Sandela. “We honour their memory best when we continue their legacy of faith, love and service, trusting in God’s promise of eternal life through Jesus Christ.”For the faithful, All Souls’ Day is a reminder that while loved ones may no longer be physically present, their influence and values continue through generations.
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