A Halloween Pumpkin Prayer
An adult can lead the carving while children participate in the prayer.
As we wash the pumpkin: Lord, cleanse our hearts and help us begin again.
As we open the pumpkin: God, open our minds and hearts to your Word.
As we remove the seeds and pulp: Jesus, remove the things that prevent us from loving you and one another.
As we carve the eyes: Help us see goodness in every person.
As we carve the mouth: Help our words be truthful, encouraging and kind.
As we place a light inside: Jesus, fill us with your light so that we may bring hope to others.
Together: Jesus, Light of the World, shine in our hearts, our home and our community. Amen.
November 1: All Saints Day
All Saints Day celebrates the saints officially recognized by the Church and the countless holy people known only to God. It reminds children that holiness is not reserved for a special few. Every baptized person is called to become a saint.
Ask your child:
- Which saint would you like to meet?
- What virtue did that saint demonstrate?
- What was difficult in that saint’s life?
- What small choice could you make to imitate that saint?
- What might God be calling you to do?
November 2: All Souls Day
On All Souls Day, we remember and pray for family members, friends and all the faithful departed.
The Communion of Saints teaches us that death does not separate us from the family of God. The faithful on earth, the souls being purified and the saints in heaven remain united in Christ.
Families might:
- Display photographs of loved ones who have died.
- Light a candle and pray for them by name.
- Attend Mass or visit a cemetery.
- Share stories about grandparents and relatives who passed on the Catholic faith.
- Prepare a favourite family recipe connected with someone who has died.
- Pray: Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them.
This can also be an opportunity to speak gently and honestly with children about death, grief, heaven and our Christian hope in the Resurrection.
Christ the King: Who Guides Our Choices?
The Church’s liturgical year concludes with the Solemnity of Christ the King, On Sunday November 22, 2026. This feast reminds us that Jesus—not popularity, possessions, social media or success—is the one who should guide our lives. Christ is a King who leads through truth, mercy, sacrifice and service.
Discuss as a family:
- Who or what influences our choices?
- Do our words and actions show that Jesus is important to us?
- How can we serve someone without expecting a reward?
- Is there someone we need to forgive?
- What would Jesus want us to do in a difficult situation?
Try This at Home: A Family Virtue Challenge
Choose one virtue for your family to practise each week:
- Prudence: Pause and pray before making an important choice.
- Justice: Include someone who may feel left out.
- Fortitude: Complete something difficult without giving up.
- Temperance: Put screens away for one evening and spend time together.
At bedtime, ask:
- Where did I notice goodness today?
- Which virtue did I practise?
- Is there something for which I need forgiveness?
- What help would I like to ask from God tomorrow?