In this month of November, the Church remembers all of the faithful departed, commonly known as the month of All Souls. It is a month when we pray in a special way for all of those who have died, and particularly for those who have need for purification before being united to the Lord in heaven, traditionally known as purgatory.

Today, on the Solemnity of All Saints, we begin National Vocation Awareness Week—a special time to focus on vocations and to help young people listen for God’s call. This year our Church also celebrates the Year of St. Francis, whose life reminds us that holiness begins by listening to Christ and responding generously. Francis wrote, “Incline the ear of your heart and obey the voice of the Son of God.” That invitation is meant for every Christian.