St. Jude the Apostle sets special masses Oct. 31, Nov. 1, 2

Catholics believe that heaven is perfect, eternal communion with God in the presence of his saints and angels, while hell is absolute and eternal separation from him for those who entirely cut themselves off from the Lord while on earth.

Purgatory is a state of final purification of sin for those who believed in God and lived his gospel but who, nevertheless, die in less-than-perfect grace. This doctrine supports belief in the efficacy of intercession for the dead.

The liturgical cycle comes to a close in November. The prayers and scriptures at daily and Sunday masses focus on the last things, including the second coming and final judgment. So Catholics observe a month of special remembrance of the dead.

The Solemnity of All Saints Day honors the heroes of the faith, known and unknown, who are in the fullness of God’s presence. On the Feast of All Souls, Catholics celebrate mass, visit cemeteries and pray for the dead.

St. Jude the Apostle Parish will mark these special days. The Solemnity of All Saints will be observed during masses at 4:30 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 31, and 7, 8:30 and 10 a.m., Sunday, Nov. 1. The Feast of All Souls will be commemorated with masses at 7:30 a.m. and 7 p.m., Monday, Nov. 2.

The evening liturgy will be preceded by reading of the names of parishioners who died in the past 12 months. A novena or nine-day cycle of masses will be offered for loved ones who have passed away.