Called to Holiness

On November 1, we celebrate the Solemnity of All Saints, a special moment to remember and honor those who have lived holiness amid the challenges of life.

Holiness is a universal call that challenges us to act with love and service in our daily lives. Saint Anthony Mary Claret, with his fervor for evangelization, reminds us that each of us is called to reflect God’s love in our daily actions. In a world marked by injustice, it is essential to let ourselves be guided by the witness of the saints and those who embody the true spirit of the Gospel in their everyday lives.

This day also has a particular significance in the history of our congregation. In 1854, Mother Foundress Maria Antonia París had a profound spiritual experience: “Year 1854, feast of all Saints, at 10:00 A.M as I was praying his Divine Majesty deigned to manifest how he would like the reformation of the church to be done by Pope Pius IX” (Aut. M.A. París, 49). The following year, on the same day, again in prayer: “his divine majesty commanded me, to note down some points about the manner He wanted to start the General reform and told me what I had to write” (Aut. M.A. París, 51). At that moment, she felt the strength of God’s presence, as if she was “very strongly tied”, reminding her of the importance of her mission.

These episodes highlight the ongoing call to personal and communal transformation, reflecting the commitment to holiness that we must cultivate in our lives.

Today, let us renew our commitment to follow the example of the Saints and respond to the call to holiness. May their lives inspire us to live with generosity and compassion, becoming instruments of peace and hope in the world.

Happy All Saints’ Day!