By Olivia Miwil
Pictures by Olivia Miwil
KOTA KINABALU: Cemeteries here were abuzz with activities as Christians observed All Saints’ and All Souls’ daysyesterday.
Both celebrations are obligatory days for Catholics to offer prayers to departed souls.
At Kampung Tamalang Silou near here, the villagers gathered at the cemetery right after attending All Saints’ Dayprayer services at the church.
Catechist Paul Augustin, who led the prayer among the community, said the practice of visiting cemeteries was usually done on All Souls’ Day today.
“As people have to work tomorrow (today), some made it today (yesterday) to clean the tombs, put some fresh flowers or light candles.
“A brief prayer session, which includes the anointment of tombstones with holy water, is also held to remember those who had died,” he said, explaining the Catholics believe there are souls, who might be in purgatory, require the helps of living people to pray for them.
Meanwhile, survey at several markets showed that fresh flowers are fully booked by families.
Florist Mc Ristion Lister Balamun, 21, said his stall had received orders as early as last month.
“We are working days and nights this week to cater more than 100 bouquets of flowers.
“Even so, there are still walk-in customers who want to buy flowers for their family member last minute,” he added.
There will be more Catholics visiting cemeteries in the morning and attend services at church in the evening.
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| Florist Mc Ristion Lister Balamun, 21, said his stall had received orders as early as last month. |
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| Observing All Saints' Day. |
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| Catechist Paul Augustin, who led the prayer among the community |
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