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All Saints' Day, known as "Allerheiligen" in Dutch and "Toussaint" in French, is a significant Christian festival celebrated annually on November 1st in Belgium, as well as many other countries. This day is dedicated to remembering all the saints and martyrs, both known and unknown, throughout Christian history.
The origins of All Saints' Day date back to the early centuries of Christianity. It was established to honor the multitude of saints who did not have a specific feast day assigned to them. The celebration was originally observed on May 13th but was moved to November 1st by Pope Gregory III in the 8th century when he consecrated a chapel to all the saints in St. Peter's Basilica.
Church Services: Belgians attend special church services where prayers are offered for all saints and martyrs. These services often include the reading of names of the deceased family members from the parish over the past year.
Cemetery Visits: A common tradition on All Saints' Day is visiting cemeteries where family members and friends clean graves, decorate them with flowers (especially chrysanthemums), and light candles in memory of their loved ones.
Silent Reflection: It is a time for quiet reflection, prayer, and remembrance of those who have passed away.
On this day, people often have a public holiday allowing them time off work or school to participate in religious services and family gatherings. They focus on honoring the deceased with respect and reverence rather than with more commercialized Halloween traditions that occur on October 31st.
Since All Saints’ Day is closely followed by All Souls' Day on November 2nd, many Belgians extend their remembrance activities across both days, creating an extended period during which they pay homage to departed souls.
