Slow down before you speed up.

It’s November. That time of year when life seems to speed up as we prepare to celebrate various religious and cultural holidays to end the calendar year. But before we all move on to the hustle and bustle that inevitably occurs this time of year, why not consider slowing down for these first few days in November to remember those people who are not still with us.

Photos of loved ones displayed by Sisters of Providence at the Church of the Immaculate Conception at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods, Ind. years ago during an All Saints Feast Day Liturgy.

The Catholic Church recognizes Nov. 1 as All Saints Day, and Nov. 2 as All Souls Day. The first, All Saints Day, is just as it sounds. It is a day dedicated to remembering saints such as our own beloved Saint Mother Theodore. All Souls Day, celebrated the very next day, is set aside to honor the dead. Many other religions and cultures also include a special day each year to remember those who have died.

Regardless of your faith or culture, this time of year we encourage all to take a moment to pause, reflect and remember loved ones who are no longer here, especially those people who may not be in your day-to-day consciousness. And we want to help. Here’s a special prayer you could say for someone as a way of lifting them up to God. Or you could submit a request for prayer. A Sister of Providence would be honored to pray for your loved ones. They would also be happy to light a candle at the Shrine of Saint Mother Theodore Guerin or the National Shrine of Our Lady of Providence as a way of remembering.

As you begin this last portion of the year which is often stressful and rushed, taking time to remember and appreciate the important people in your life might help you have a more fulfilling holiday season.  And if you need a little support, there is always someone at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods ready to help.