The tradition of honoring saints goes back to the early Church. Early Christians would honor martyrs from their diocese on the anniversary of their deaths at the site of their martyrdom. Beginning around the fourth century, neighboring diocese began to expand their commemorations to include those from neighboring dioceses. However, during the persecution under Emperor Diocletian, there were so many martyrs that it became impossible to honor each individual with their own day. Since the Church still viewed veneration of these martyrs as important, a common day of celebration for all martyrs was created.
Many cultures on All Saints' Day have a tradition of visiting cemeteries and family graves and placing flowers at those graves. There is also a tradition of lighting candles, either in homes, at church or graveside. In Latin countries (Portugal, Spain and Latin America), families will often leave food offerings out for deceased members of the family. This is especially common in Mexico, where All Saints' Day coincides with the traditional Dia de Muertos feast, which honors deceased family members and involves erecting altars in the home decorated with flowers and food offerings and visiting cemeteries.
All Saints' Day has a rich history and tradition within the Catholic Church. It is a day when we can honor all those who have achieved our ultimate goal of living with God in paradise. Take time this November 1st to thank God for the example of the saints and say a prayer for all those who have died.