November 2 is designated as the liturgical Memorial of All the Faithful Departed, or more commonly referred to as All Souls. It is fitting that we should pray especially today for the repose of the souls of all the faithful departed.
Tradition holds that the very first Christians wanted to be buried near to the tomb of Saint Peter, and since the Vatican Basilica is built directly above the tomb of that Saint, it is also believed that many of the first followers of Christ were buried in that place. It is fitting therefore that the Holy Father, the Bishop of Rome should pray for the repose of their souls on this day.
Since this was a moment of private prayer, there was no speech prepared, and no text published other than the brief note explaining that this moment of silent observance would take place.
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