According to St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta, it is the most natural thing to grow up and become a saint in the Catholic Church, because we are all called to holiness.
The was the message echoed by Bishop Emilio E. Biosca, O.F.M. Cap., during an All Saints Day Mass, Nov. 1, 2026, for the faithful of Ascension Parish Mission, Fort Myers. Beach.
Bishop Emilio said we are all “called to sanctity: one who prays, reads the Sacred Scriptures, and receives the Body and Blood of Christ at Mass.”
The bishop emphasized that our invitation to become saints does not mean we do it alone, the invitation comes directly from God, meaning we need to always be open to hear the call of God in our life; God is always with us.
Throughout the Diocese of Venice saints were celebrated, with many parishes inviting their youngest members to dress as a favorite saint.
At St. Jude Parish, Sarasota, a celebration filled with faith and family took place in remembrance of the beloved saints, great examples of holiness who inspire us to follow Jesus and walk faithfully in His footsteps. It was a celebration where faith meets joy and where the youngest members of the church discover that holiness is also a beautiful path anyone can follow every day.
At Sacred Heart Parish, Punta Gorda, the students who attend faith formation class (grades 1 to 5) participated in the annual All Saints Event, on Nov. 2, during their regular class time. Parents were also present, making this a fun family event. Each student dressed up as a saint and wrote a report about the life of their saint and why that saint was important to them. The catechists represented saints as well and taught the students about the saint’s life. Msgr. Phil Hill, who comes to the weekly classes to support the students, told them about his friendship with Archbishop Fulton Sheen who was recently beatified.
In addition, many parishes hosted Trunk or Treat events in the parking lots, allowing a safe space for the little ones to receive candy while the community celebrates together.
Many diocesan Catholic schools also hosted events associated with the Solemnity.
St. John Neumann Catholic High School staff and students in Naples continued a cherished tradition by welcoming the children from neighboring St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic School for some fun Oct. 30. The Seton students (kindergarten through second grade) arrived dressed as saints and angels, marching into St. John Neumann to collect candy, share smiles, and spread cheer across campus. This annual event is a beautiful reminder of the special bond between the schools and the joy that comes from celebrating together.
At St. Francis Xavier Catholic School, Fort Myers, third graders brought the saints to life on Nov. 3, 2026, for the annual Saints Wax Museum. Students dressed as saints and shared inspiring stories about their lives, faith, and dedication to God, as they posed as wax figures and parents visited them in the school gymnasium.
For the Souls of the faithful departed
At San Pedro Parish, North Port, Father Chris Uhl, OMV, celebrated All Souls’ Day Mass as all were invited to light a candle for a departed loved one in Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed.
A similar evening Mass took place at Our Lady of Light Parish, Fort Myers, as the faithful remembered and honored the loved ones who have gone before us. Through the lighting of candles and heartfelt prayers, they entrusted the souls of our faithful departed to God’s infinite mercy and love.
Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. Amen.
