The end of October always carries a chill in the air—and not just because of the weather. There’s a spiritual shift, a thinning of the veil, when the Church invites us into something deeper: a time to remember, to pray, and to love beyond the boundaries of this life.

This sacred stretch of days—October 31 through November 2—is called Allhallowtide, and it’s one of the richest seasons in our Catholic tradition. While the world fills its porches with candy and costumes, we’re invited to fill our hearts with prayer and fasting for souls.

The Three Holy Days of Allhallowtide

October 31 — All Hallows’ Eve

This night—so often overshadowed by sugar and spooks—is actually the vigil of a holy day. “Hallow” means holy one, and Halloween simply means the eve of All Hallows’ Day.

Catholics have always kept vigils, preparing their hearts before great feasts. All Hallows’ Eve is meant to stir that same readiness. We remember the great battle between light and darkness and prepare to honor those who triumphed—the saints in Heaven.

As the world dresses up in masks and shadows, we keep watch, fasting and praying in joyful anticipation. Fasting on this night can be a small but powerful act of reordering—turning our hunger toward Heaven instead of the candy bowl.

November 1 — All Saints’ Day

This is a holy day of obligation, one of the brightest feasts in the liturgical year. The Church lifts her eyes to Heaven and celebrates the communion of saints—not just the canonized ones with feast days and statues, but every soul who has reached eternal glory.

When we fast or pray on All Saints’ Day, we do it in gratitude—for their witness, their intercession, and their proof that holiness is possible. Every act of fasting becomes a quiet echo of their love: “Lord, make me a saint too.”

November 2 — All Souls’ Day

The day after glory comes mercy. On All Souls’ Day, we remember and pray for those who have died but are still being purified in Purgatory. It’s one of the most tender teachings of the Church—that our prayers and sacrifices can help souls complete their journey into Heaven.

This is where spiritual fasting becomes a powerful gift. When we willingly deny ourselves—food, comfort, distraction—we can unite that offering to Christ’s suffering for the sake of others. A small fast, a missed dessert, a skipped glass of wine can become a bridge of grace for someone who longs to see God’s face.

It’s also a day of deep remembrance. I remember my mom and dad, my father-in-law, my Aunt Sis, who just passed away this week, and anyone who’s passed on to heaven. Their stories, their laughter, even their favorite things (like Guinness beer) become little relics of love that still unite us.

Fasting as an Act of Love

Fasting for souls isn’t about deprivation—it’s about participation. When you fast, you’re joining Christ in His redemptive love. You’re saying, “I choose sacrifice over indulgence so that others may be free.”

The beauty of Allhallowtide is that it reclaims what our culture has emptied. It transforms a season of fear and sugar into a time of remembrance, mercy, and love. It teaches us to look beyond ourselves—to pray for the living and the dead—and to remember that we are all part of the same Body, stretching across Heaven, earth, and Purgatory.

So, when you light a candle, skip the candy, or whisper a prayer this week, remember: you are part of something eternal. Every fast, every prayer, every small “yes” to grace echoes across souls and centuries.

A Closing Prayer

Lord, I offer this fast in love—for my family, my friends, and all the souls who await Your mercy.
May my hunger draw them closer to Your heart and remind me that I am made for Heaven.
Jesus, I trust in You.