All Saints

All Saints Sunday

What Is All Saints Sunday?

All Saints Sunday is a Christian observance typically held on the first Sunday in November, closely tied to All Saints Day (November 1). It is a time to honor and remember all believers who have died in the faith, both well-known saints and those known only to us. Many churches light candles, read names of the departed, and reflect on the “great cloud of witnesses” (Hebrews 12:1) who have gone before us.

While All Saints Day is a fixed-date feast, All Saints Sunday allows congregations to observe it within regular Sunday worship. It is a moment of grief and gratitude, blending remembrance with resurrection hope.

Some churches also ask: Is the Paschal candle lit on All Saints Sunday? Yes—it often is. The Paschal candle symbolizes the light of Christ, and its presence during All Saints Sunday underscores the Easter promise of eternal life.

When Is All Saints Sunday?

All Saints Sunday is observed on the first Sunday after All Saints Day (November 1). While All Saints Day always falls on November 1, All Saints Sunday moves with the calendar to allow congregations to mark the occasion in Sunday worship.

Here are the upcoming dates for All Saints Sunday:

• 2025 – November 2

• 2026 – November 1

• 2027 – November 7

• 2028 – November 5

• 2029 – November 4

This observance offers space for congregations to remember the faithful departed, read names, light candles, and give thanks for those who have finished their earthly race in Christ.

Is All Saints Sunday different from All Souls’ Day?

Yes. All Saints Sunday commemorates all the faithful who are in glory, while All Souls’ Day (typically November 2) focuses more specifically on remembering the dead and praying for all souls, especially those who are thought to be in transition.

Common Scriptures for All Saints Sunday

These scripture passages are frequently used in worship for All Saints Sunday and anchor the theology of remembrance and hope:

• Hebrews 12:1 – “Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses…”

• Revelation 7:9–17 – “A great multitude that no one could count…”

• Matthew 5:1–12 – The Beatitudes: “Blessed are the poor in spirit…”

• Psalm 24 – “Who shall ascend the hill of the Lord?”

• 1 John 3:1–3 – “See what love the Father has given us…”