31/10/2025
From the Pastor’s Pen
Dr. Armand Canoy
UNDAS 2025
Besides Holy Week and the Christmas season, All Saints Day (Araw ng mga Santo – Nov. 1) and All Souls Day (Araw ng mga Kaluluwa – Nov. 2) are deeply significant days in the Philippines. Known collectively as Undas, these days are set aside to remember and honor our departed loved ones.
According to Catholic tradition, All Saints Day honors all saints and martyrs of the Church, especially those without designated feast days. All Souls Day is dedicated to praying for the souls of the faithful departed, particularly those believed to be in purgatory. During Undas, Roman Catholics gather in cemeteries, light candles, offer prayers, and attend Masses—hoping to guide souls toward eternal peace.
However, from a biblical perspective, the term “saints” refers to all believers in Jesus Christ—those who are “set apart” and called to live holy lives (Romans 1:7, 1 Corinthians 1:2, Ephesians 1:1). Scripture does not support the concept of purgatory. Hebrews 9:27 clearly states: “It is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment.” Matthew 25:46 affirms that after death, there are only two destinations: eternal punishment or eternal life. “While lighting a candle can be a meaningful way to honor their memory, it cannot change their eternal destiny. Scripture makes it clear—such a transition is not possible.”
As Christianity Today notes: “For Bible-believing Christians, All Saints' Day serves as a reminder of the faithfulness of God and the example of saints who have gone before. It encourages believers to reflect on the lives of those who have served God and to draw inspiration from their commitment to faith.”
This season is not just about remembrance—it’s a call to action. We, too, are saints in Christ. Our lives can inspire others, especially those who do not yet know Jesus. As we grow in holiness, we become living testimonies of God’s grace.
Let us use Undas as an opportunity to share the hope of the Resurrection; witness to the truth of eternal life through Jesus; worship God with gratitude for calling us His saints.
In our worship, we praise and thank Him—not only for those faithful believers who have gone before, but for the calling He has placed on our lives today.
