Christians have been urged to remain steadfast in their faith and live in the hope of the resurrection, even in moments of grief and the loss of their loved ones.
This message was delivered by Fr. Kwitonda Ponsiano, curate of Rushoroza Cathedral Parish, while presiding over the evening Holy Mass at Rushoroza Cathedral on November 2, 2026, during the Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed, commonly known as All Souls’ Day.
Reflecting on the Reading from Romans 5:5–11, Fr. Kwitonda drew attention to St. Paul’s assurance that hope does not disappoint because Christ died for humanity while we were still sinners. He encouraged Christians to embrace this hope, particularly when faced with the pain of losing their loved ones.
He challenged the faithful to reflect on their response to death, asking: Do we recognise God’s presence in every situation, or do we acknowledge Him only during moments of joy?
Drawing inspiration from the life of St. Augustine and his mother, St. Monica, Fr. Kwitonda recalled the traditional account of St. Monica’s final wishes. When asked where she wished to be buried, she reportedly responded that the place of her burial was not important, but that she desired to be remembered at the celebration of the Holy Mass.
Fr. Kwitonda further explained the significance of the two important celebrations observed by the Church at the beginning of November. On November 1, the Church celebrates the Solemnity of All Saints, honouring those who have overcome the struggles of earthly life, washed their robes in the blood of the Lamb and now enjoy the glory of heaven.
On November 2, the Church commemorates all the faithful departed, particularly those undergoing purification in purgatory before entering the fullness of God’s glory. He reminded Christians that these souls depend on the prayers of the living faithful as they await the joy of eternal life.
He therefore encouraged Christians to pray for the departed in the month of November and offer Mass intentions for them, asking God, in His infinite mercy and goodness, to purify them of their sins and grant them eternal rest. He also urged the faithful to pray for themselves, seeking God’s grace to live holy and righteous lives.
Reflecting on the Reading from the Book of Job (Job 19:1, 23–27), Fr. Kwitonda highlighted Job’s unwavering faith in God despite the immense suffering he experienced. Although Job lost his children, possessions and everything that gave him comfort, he never abandoned his trust in God. Instead, he professed his confidence in his living Redeemer and his hope of seeing God face to face.
This, he noted, should challenge Christians to examine their own faith, particularly during difficult moments. He asked how often people forget or abandon God when confronted with hardships, suffering and trials.
He encouraged the faithful to seek God’s grace so that they may always recognise His presence in every circumstance, whether joyful or sorrowful.
He further explained that the souls in purgatory experience the pain of being deprived of the beatific vision of God. Nevertheless, they remain hopeful, longing for the day when their purification will be complete and they will enjoy eternal communion with Him.
Turning to the Gospel message of the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:1–12), Fr. Kwitonda reminded Christians that the opportunity to make choices concerning their earthly lives ends with death. He therefore urged them to make the right choices here and now by embracing the values that lead to eternal life.
He called upon the faithful to practise humility, promote peace, show mercy and live harmoniously with one another if they desire to inherit the Kingdom of Heaven.
Addressing the divisions and conflicts within communities, he observed that people sometimes fight against one another instead of standing up for and supporting one another. He emphasised that the journey towards heaven requires love, unity, companionship and mutual encouragement.
“Let us fight for one another rather than fight against one another,” he urged.
Quoting Jesus’ words in Matthew 25:40, “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me,” Fr. Kwitonda challenged Christians to overcome selfishness, become more considerate of others and recognise Christ in those around them.
He concluded by encouraging the faithful to stop judging one another and instead cultivate a spirit of prayer, love, forgiveness and compassion as they journey towards eternal life.