Christians observe ‘All Souls Day’ offering prayers at cemeteries

Christians from Belagavi and neighbouring areas gathered in the Old Cemetery in Belagavi on Sunday, to observe ‘All Souls Day’.

Across the globe, the day is commemorated to remember the deceased members of family and close ones. Christians believe in the sacredness and the blessings of the souls of their families, so decorate their graves with flowers and offer special prayers to them.

Prayer services were organised at the Christian burial lands across the city. Special prayers were held in the cemeteries near Golf Course, Shahpur, and other places.

In his sermon Fr. Cyril Braggs reminded people of their temporary stay on the earth. “As we pray in the cemetery, the deceased remind us that tomorrow it is our turn. Hence through our good deeds and prayers, we should be always prepared to face the death which is unavoidable for everyone,” Fr. Braggs said.

People from across the city had gathered in the Old Cemetery and the British Cemetery near the Gold Course. After the prayer services the candles were lit on the graves by the family members while the priests blessed them.

Rev. Fr. Vijay Mendith was the main celebrant at the mass that was held at the Old Cemetery near Golf Course. Accompanying him along with were Fr. Nelson Pinto, Fr. Michael Fernandes, Fr. Albert Dsouza, Fr. Rajendra Prasad, and Fr. Dennis Rodrigues, said a release.