Blessing of Graves Nov. 2 in Culver

The community is invited to honor community members buried at Culver's Masonic cemetery as part of an observation of All Souls Day, specifically, and "Hallowtide" generally (All Hallow's Evening, or Halloween, Oct. 31; All Saints Day, Nov. 1; and All Souls Day, Nov. 2) on Sunday, Nov. 2, beginning with a procession starting at approximately 4 p.m. at St. Mary of the Lake Catholic Church, 124 College Ave., to the cemetery on South Main Street.

The procession is expected to take around 30 minutes on foot and arrive at the cemetery around 4:30 p.m., where the blessing of graves and prayers will be led by St. Mary's pastor, Fr. Stephen Felicichia. Participants are also welcome to drive to the cemetery for the 4:30 p.m. ceremony rather than walk there as part of the procession.

After the blessing, a hayride back to the church will be offered for anyone wishing to take it. There’s a free chili cook-off with prizes starting around 5:15 in the parish hall, with food and fellowship available to all. 

This year, an added feature will be the inclusion of a saints costume contest for children, who are encouraged to dress as their favorite saint/Biblical character for a prize as well. 

All Saints Day dates back to the early centuries of Christianity, when Christian martyrs were honored. The practice of remembering all those designated as saints began in the 9th century. All Saints' Day, or All Hallows' Day, was followed by a day designated to pray for all the souls of the departed, known as All Souls' Day, starting in the 10th century. The popular Halloween holiday derives its name from being the evening (or "e'en" in Old English) before All Hallows, or All Saints Day, on Oct. 31. Together, these three days were known historically by Christians as Hallowtide. 

Those with questions may direct them to St. Mary's parish office at 574-842-3667 or communications@stmaryculver.org.