As Fr. Chris Alar explains, the evening we now call Halloween began not as a pagan ritual, but as a sacred Christian vigil—All Hallows’ Eve, the holy night before the solemnity of All Saints’ Day. This feast, instituted in the 700s, has always been a time to honor the saints and pray for the faithful departed. The Church’s ancient practice of vigils reflected the truth that holy days begin at sundown, anticipating the joy of what is to come.

Join Fr. Chris, Deacon Harold, and Br. Jason as they bring you to Lourdes and Our Lady! They explain what the Immaculate Conception means to them and what it should mean to you - as well as how to explain it. Of all the healing places in the world, come to Lourdes with them and see what St. Bernadette saw!

Explore the Message of Divine Mercy