Archbishop Charles Scicluna used his homily on All Souls' Day, 2 November, to remind everyone to pray for the deceased, stressing its importance.

Archbishop Scicluna organised a mass for the annual commemoration of all souls, on Monday morning, at the Chapel of the Resurrection inside the Qormi cemetery.

The archpriests of Qormi's two parishes, Fr. Mario Mangion and Fr. Karist Zammit, concelebrated with him.

The Archbishop spoke about the great importance that lies in praying for the dead, for their souls, particularly during this time when the Church invites all people to remember them and visit their graves.

He said that while we can find the remains of those who have left this world inside cemeteries, "the true encounter with them takes place in faith and prayer, especially when we gather together for the Eucharist."

While reflecting on St. Paul's writings, Scicluna said that God's love is not based on one's merits, but on the fact that all people are his children.

He mentioned that praying for the dead has great significance that goes beyond our concept of time, since to God there is no past or future - "everything is present."

He recalled that while the Church believes in divine judgement through heaven and hell, Jesus Christ wants everyone to be saved and join him in eternal life.

Hence, he encouraged everyone to pray for their loved ones and ask God for grace so that they do not separate themselves from him.

Scicluna appealed for everyone to live in love towards God and to be kind to themselves and their neighbours, while stating that God's judgement at the end of one's life on Earth will be made on love.

After the mass, Archbishop Scicluna blessed the graves at the Qormi cemetery.