Halloween: The Eve of All Saints and Souls Days Honoring the Deceased

Updated November 1,2026-Originally titled November’s Timely Topic

We observe Halloween as its own holiday, but it is also the “eve” of another observance.

Also known as All Hallows’ Eve, it introduces the onset of Christian religious observances remembering deceased persons.

All Saints Day is a Christian holiday honoring Saints who have passed on to the afterlife usually observed on November 1st.
All Souls’ Day, in Roman Catholicism, a day for the commemoration of all the faithful departed, usually on November 2.
Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a celebration of life and death. While the holiday originated in Mexico, it is celebrated all over Latin America with colorful calaveras (skulls) and calacas (skeletons), also on November 1 and 2.

Whether you observe any of these, death is a topic that has or will touch all of us and our families. I have written these blog posts that help make that life transition smoother.

A Beginner’s Guide to the End

A Beginner’s Guide to the End by B.J. Miller and Shoshana Berger offers practical advice for navigating life and death. Combining personal experiences and practical information, it covers essential topics such as planning ahead, dealing with illness, and understanding grief. The book serves as a helpful resource for anyone facing mortality.

Diseases, Injuries, and Dying

Why you should get ready to die while you live -a book review

“The reason obituaries are so dull to read is that they are so dull to write and that’s precisely why I’m writing my own: To save my family the drudgery in an otherwise stressful time.”

Keep reading

For personal reflection

Has someone you know recently died? What are your thoughts and feelings from observing their experience?

How are you preparing for your own death, whether imminent or unknown? How does considering this affect the way you are living now?

Exploring the HEART of health, life, and death

I hope you don’t need to read any of these books now, but the reality is many of you do, or will eventually. People I know who have faced death with peace and confidence fare much better, as do their families. Be knowledgeable and prepared for your sake and for theirs.

Thank you for reading this post. I strive to make them worth your time.

I share information and inspiration that sparks transformation in your body, mind, and spirit.

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Watercress Words by Dr. Aletha

Dr. Aletha

Author: Aletha Cress Oglesby, M.D.

As a family physician, I explore the HEART of HEALTH in my work, recreation, community, and through writing. My blog, Watercress Words, informs and inspires us to live in health. I believe we can turn our health challenges into healthy opportunities. When we do, we can share the HEART of health with our families, communities, and the world. Come explore and share with me. View all posts by Aletha Cress Oglesby, M.D.