The All Saints Day feast dates back to the 7th century, and the occasion of its introduction was the conversion of the ancient Pantheon at Rome into a Christian church. This famous temple, which possibly existed in the time of the Republic, is generally considered to have been built by Marcus Agrippa in his third consulate in the year 27 B.C., but it is not improbable that he merely restored and added to it. Historians do not agree as to the origin of its name, but Pliny tells us that Agrippa dedicated it to Jupiter the Avenger. It was afterward repaired by Septimus Severus and his son Caracalla.
READ MOREGood News! Trick or treating doesn't jeopardize our faith.
What was once thought to be a harmless holiday is now said by some to be a pagan rite dating back to Celtic (and pagan) Druids. What's more, it's claimed that modern pagans and witches continue to celebrate this ancient festival even today.
The truth is that the origins of Halloween are, in fact, very Christian, and rather American, too. Halloween actually falls on October 31 because of a Pope, and its observances are the result of medieval Catholic piety.
READ MORESt. Margaret Mary Alacoque
Patroness of Devotees of the Sacred Heart
Feast Day: October 16
One day, Jesus spoke to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque as she knelt before the Blessed Sacrament. Jesus said He had chosen her to reveal His Sacred Heart as a symbol of His love. During three more revelations, He explained how to practice the devotion.
READ MOREFifteen Promises of Mary to those who recite the Rosary:
Each October the Church in the U.S. celebrates Respect Life Month, and the first Sunday of October is observed as Respect Life Sunday. As Catholics, we are called to cherish, defend, and protect those who are most vulnerable, from the beginning of life to its end, and at every point in between. During the month of October, the Church asks us to reflect more deeply on the dignity of every human life.
READ MORE