3 Ways to Celebrate All Saints Day and All Souls Day During the Pandemic

While the world continues to grapple with the effects of the coronavirus pandemic, the state of large holiday gathering hangs in the balance. Personal faith celebrations like All Saints Day and All Souls Day, however, are being given their time to shine.

The American Friends for the Preservation of Saint Germain des Prés highlight a unique way to honor saints and lost loved ones this autumn: help preserve one of the oldest Catholic churches in the world.

“Faith isn’t cancelled,” says American Friends program leader Brian Smith. “As we all continue to be mindful of our safety amidst the realities of the pandemic, there are still ways to honor sacred holidays like All Saints Day and All Souls Day. Dedicating a donation to a saint or loved one and helping preserve the 1,500-year-old Church of Saint Germain des Prés is a unique way to add meaning to these days of solemn celebration.”

3 Ways to Celebrate All Saints Day and All Souls Day During the Pandemic

1. Preserve this ancient church while honoring a saint or lost loved one: Lift up the saints and those you have loved and lost while at the same time helping to preserve one of the oldest Catholic churches in the world — the nearly 1,500-year-old Church of Saint Germain des Prés in Paris. Through the Adopt a Saint Germain Star™ Campaign, a $150 donation will designate one of the church’s magnificent celestial ceiling stars to the name of your choosing. All donations go directly to preserving the church as a testament to faith and hope for generations to come. It's a uniquely meaningful way to celebrate All Saints Day and All Souls Day during the pandemic.

See the restoration of the Church of Saint Germain des Prés in progress:

• Scaffolding being removed from a completed section
• Recently restored sections of the church
• More photos

1. Visit a sacred site in your area: While international travel continues to have increased regulations during the pandemic, there are many U.S. sites where you can safely celebrate your Catholic faith and its history. Find a spot that’s close to home and consider a local daytrip.
2. Volunteer locally: Look into local volunteer opportunities through the Church. Selfless acts of service are a wonderful way to celebrate your faith.

About American Friends for the Preservation of Saint Germain des Prés: American Friends for the Preservation of Saint Germain des Prés is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization working to fund the restoration of Paris' oldest church. The foundation works with its French counterparts at The Preservation of Saint Germain des Prés Foundation to garner donations in the pursuit of preserving history. Visit  www.PreserveSaintGermain.org.