Celebrations can be traced as far back as fourth century, according to some sources, when the Greek Christians held a festival on the first Sunday after Pentecost to honor all martyrs and saints. Yet, other sources say that a commemoration of “All Martyrs” began to be celebrated as early as 270 CE but no specific month or date is recorded. Pope Gregory IV made All Saints' Day an authorized holiday in 837 CE. It is speculated that the chosen date for the event, November 1, may have been an attempt to supplant the pagan Festival of the Dead (also known as Samhain or the feast of Saman, lord of death).
People of different church denominations, especially the Catholic Church, observe All Saints' Day. For those who observe All Saints' Day, this event gives people a moment of reflection on the lives of saints, as well as a chance to pray for friends or family members who are deceased.
Angels, Archangels,
Thrones, Dominions,
Principalities, Powers,
heavenly Virtues,
Cherubim and Seraphim;
all Saints of God,
holy men and women,
and especially my patrons:
intercede for me
that I may be worthy
to offer this Sacrifice to almighty God,
to the praise and glory of His name,
for my own welfare
and also that of all His holy Church. Amen.
