Catholic Dictionary
Find accurate definitions of over 5,000 Catholic terms and phrases (including abbreviations). Based on Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.
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ALL SOULS
A feast commemorating on November 2, the faithful departed. Begun by Abbot Odo of Cluny in his monasteries in 998, it was gradually adopted by the whole Church. Pope Benedict XV granted all priests the privilege of offering three masses on this day: one for all the poor souls, another for the Pope's intentions, and a third for the intentions of the priest. When the feast falls on Sunday, it is observed on November 3.
