It is an obligation of the Church on certain days to Fast and Abstain from meat, and to pray and do almsgiving every day. Fr. Chris Alar explains why do we do penances and what is the meaning within and outside of Lent.

With all the suffering in the world, how does God provide for us? He provides for us in many ways, but one of the best ways is through the gift of his mother. Join Fr. Chris Alar, MIC, as he discusses the best way to receive all the graces of that gift — Marian Consecration.

Fr. Chris reminds us that today — the Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed — is one of the most important days of the Church year. Though it’s not a solemnity or feast, its spiritual weight is immense. Following the glory of All Saints Day, we now turn to the souls who still await their full union with God — the holy souls in Purgatory. Together, these three days — All Hallows Eve, All Saints, and All Souls — form what the Church calls Allhallowtide, or the “Triduum of Death.” It is not dark, but deeply merciful, because it reveals God’s justice and His love.