November is a unique and spiritually charged time within the Catholic liturgical calendar. It is a month dedicated entirely to the Holy Souls in Purgatory, the faithful departed who are undergoing their final purification. This profound focus on the “last things” (death, judgment, heaven, and hell) serves to remind us of the universal call to holiness and our interconnectedness through the doctrine of the Communion of Saints.

The month begins by acknowledging this vast spiritual family. On All Saints’ Day (November 1), we celebrated the Church Triumphant, the countless known and unknown saints who have reached heaven. The very next day, All Souls’ Day (November 2), we turned our prayers to the Church Suffering (the souls in purgatory). This immediate transition emphasises our duty to assist these souls on their journey into Heaven.

Our prayers, sacrifices, and the offering of the Mass have real merit for those in purgatory. The Church encourages special devotions throughout November, including the opportunity to gain a plenary indulgence for a soul in purgatory through specific acts, such as visiting a cemetery and praying for the faithful departed. This act of mercy highlights the spiritual bond that transcends death.

Throughout November, we journey alongside a diverse array of holy men and women who inspire us to join this “Heavenly Army” of God. Their feast days are sprinkled throughout the month, showcasing different paths to holiness:

· St. Martin de Porres (November 3), a humble Dominican lay brother known for his charity.

· St. Charles Borromeo (November 4), a leading figure in the Counter-Reformation.

· The Dedication of the Lateran Basilica (November 9), celebrating the Mother Church of the world, a symbol of Church unity.

· St. Martin of Tours (November 11), a soldier who became a Priest, a Bishop and a true tireless shepherd of his flock.

· St. Frances Xavier Cabrini (November 13), the first U.S. citizen to be canonised, a beacon for immigrants.

· St. Cecilia (November 22), the beloved patroness of musicians who remained steadfast in her faith.

· St. Andrew the Apostle (November 30), one of the first followers of Christ, whose feast day marks the beginning of Advent preparation.

These saints, the souls in purgatory, and we, the faithful on earth, collectively form God’s almighty heavenly army, united under the one and universal King, Jesus Christ.

The liturgical year culminates powerfully on the last Sunday of November with the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe. This feast, established by Pope Pius XI in 1925, serves as a powerful reminder that Jesus Christ holds ultimate sovereignty over all aspects of creation, life, and governance. It prepares our hearts for the Advent season and the final coming of Christ in glory.

This year marks the centenary of the solemnity. The Solemnity of Christ the King falls on Sunday, November 23, 2025.

We are delighted that Perth will be partaking in this significant centenary celebration. Father Paul Fox from the Divine Mercy Shrine will join other clergy at St Mary’s Cathedral Perth for a special Eucharistic Procession. This public witness to our faith is a profound opportunity to acknowledge our King’s dominion over our city, our nation, and our world.

As November draws to a close, let us renew our devotion to the Holy Souls, ask for the intercession of the Saints, and join the entire Church in proclaiming, with joy and conviction: Viva Cristo Rey! (Long Live Christ the King!)