Hundreds remember loved ones on All Souls’ Day at nighttime Mass in Dickinson

Father Larry Wilson incenses a table holding pictures of deceased loved ones during a nighttime All Souls' Day Mass at Mount Olivet Catholic Cemetery in Dickinson  on Nov. 2 (Photo by James Ramos/Herald)

DICKINSON – The cemetery sparkled in the twilight sun. Solar lights and electric candles flickered in the distance, spotlighting different markers as families visited their loved ones at Mount Olivet Catholic Cemetery in Dickinson on All Souls’ Day, Nov. 2.  

More than 300 people turned out for the nighttime Mass, with many carrying candles while bundled up to stay warm amidst the low 50s that chilled the evening.  

Father Larry Wilson, pastor of nearby Shrine of the True Cross Catholic Church, celebrated the Mass. Surrounded by dozens of candles, he encouraged the attendees to always keep their loved ones in prayer, especially at Masses.  

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“This is my favorite Mass to celebrate each year,” he said in his homily. “Today we remember those we loved and loved us.” 

A particularly moving moment came near the end of the Mass, when he incensed two large tables overflowing with pictures of loved ones that have died, many who are buried nearby. The Mass was offered especially for those who died in 2023.  

Walking around each table with the incense, Father Wilson joined his prayers with those present and present in spirit. Then, kneeling before each table, an ofrenda of sorts, Father Wilson paused in silent prayer.  

Then, after the Mass, the crowds dispersed quietly into the night, some to their cars and others to gravesites, all while carrying prayers for and memories of their loved ones close to their heart.  

The Mass was one of several celebrated at Catholic cemeteries around the Archdiocese for All Souls’ Day.