Observing All Saints Day
12-03-1995 Times Picayune

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Re: the Nov. 1 column by Dennis Persica about All Saints' Day,
past and present traditions and activities.

Let me first say Dennis Persica should be commended for writing
an excellent article, which should have once again reminded
Orleanians of the unique traditions that are part of New
Orleans. Although All Saints' Day is not being observed exactly
as it had been in the past, it is still a day observed by
thousands.

We are fortunate, however, that in the last several years, at
least two funeral homes have been observing this special day by
having special Masses said for those who died during the
previous year.

Rhodes Funeral Home began a tradition of having an All Saints'
Day Mass approximately 17 years ago. This year again, it had its
Memorial Mass, which was celebrated by Auxiliary Bishop Curtis
J. Guillory of Houston, who was joined on the altar by several
ministers from nearby Baptist, Methodist and other churches.
Following this Mass was a traditional reception.

Lakelawn Funeral Home also had a Mass, celebrated by Auxiliary
Bishop Robert J. Muench in the funeral home chapel.

Both of these Masses had approximately 500 people in attendance.

Also, Save Our Cemeteries Inc., which is doing an excellent job
restoring and preserving our cemetery landmarks, has been having
an annual "All Saints' Soiree" to honor this special day and
tradition. This year it was held in the beautiful Jordan family
Garden District home.

We should encourage all Orleanians to observe this unique
holiday by visiting a cemetery, remembering their deceased,
and/or attending one of the special events.

Thank you again for publishing the article by Mr. Persica I hope
next year he will attend some of the newer events and report to
the public that although some of the All Saints' traditions have
changed, All Saints' Day is still a special day for the people
of New Orleans and all of Louisiana.