On this day, we commemorate all Orthodox Christians who died since the world began. Everyone who lived and served faithfully and honourably their Fatherland and their neighbours. Our parents, brothers and sisters, friends, and relatives. Godly rulers, hierarchs and priests, monks and laymen, who departed from us at every age and who belonged to every family and estate. All people who passed away to God with hope for eternity.
We diligently pray our Lord and Saviour to forgive them all their sins and offences, give rest to their souls, and count them worthy to be with God in the abodes of the righteous and in the bright inheritance of the saints — the Kingdom of Heaven.
We know that after the Incarnation of God, saving Passions of Christ, and glorious Resurrection of the Lord, there is no death as eternal parting anymore. There is only temporary falling asleep, because everybody is alive for God.
On the day of the Descent of the Holy Spirit on the Apostles, which we will commemorate tomorrow, it was revealed to us that the grace of the Holy Spirit knows no bounds and limits, but extends over both those who are still on their way in this world and those who have already left it.
Today, we bear witness before God and the Church of the fact that our late relatives and loved ones are alive in our hearts and that Christian love binds us together with them as firmly as ever.
Let us keep this connecting link until our new meeting with them, let us do good deeds in their memory, let us do what they may have eagerly wanted to do but have not managed to do. Let us remember them, and one day, someone will warmly and prayerfully remember us too.
Bright memory to all Orthodox Christians who died since the world began!