ALL SAINTS, SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 1, 2026

MASS READINGS:

Gospel

Matthew 5:1-12a

When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain, and after he had sat down, his disciples came to him. He began to teach them, saying: "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they who mourn, for they will be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the land. Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied. Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. Blessed are the clean of heart, for they will see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the Kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when they insult you and persecute you and utter every kind of evil against you falsely because of me. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven."

REFLECTION

"Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven."

A famous saying traditionally attributed to St. Augustine is:

“If these men and women could do it, why not I?”

These words beautifully express the heart of All Saints’ Day.

The saints were ordinary human beings, just like us. They struggled, sinned, repented, and persevered through God's grace. They learned to live as Jesus taught, and through their faithfulness to the Beatitudes, they now enjoy eternal happiness with God in heaven.

In the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:1–12), Jesus describes not only the person He calls us to become, but also the path to holiness. We are blessed to have a happiness that comes not from worldly success, but from belonging to God.

The eight Beatitudes are eight beautiful expressions of a heart being transformed by God's grace.

The saints we honor today walked many of the same paths we travel. They endured suffering, doubts, trials, and persecution. Yet, through prayer, acts of charity, humility, mercy, and unwavering love for the Lord, they persevered.

Today, they rejoice in the glory of the Holy Trinity, enjoying the fullness of happiness that Jesus promised in the Beatitudes.

They now behold the face of God!

And perhaps St. Augustine's words should become our own personal challenge:

“If they could become saints, why not I?”

After all, holiness is not reserved for a chosen few. It is God's invitation to each of us.

God Bless You!