Amanda Blake-Pauka arranges fresh flowers for the grave of her late brother, Remy Blake who passed away suddenly at a young age in 1973, for All Saint’s Day or Turama which falls on November 1 every year.

“I like this time of the year, when we get together and remember our loved ones,” said Blake-Pauka.

Blake-Pauka and her family cleaned and decorated the graves of her brother at the Catholic Cemetery in Panama, and her father’s in Matavera in preparation for the Catholic vigil of All Saint’s Day yesterday evening, when prayers are said for the beloved dead.

Later in the evening, candles were lit, prayers offered for the dead, and blessed, holy water sprinkled on the graves.

The churches on the island, St Joseph’s Cathedral started at the Catholic Cemetery in Panama Cemetery, St Paul's in Titikaveka, St Mary’s in Arorangi and the Sacred Heart Parish in Matavera.

Although Turama is observed by Catholics, for many years other denominations also clean and decorate the graves of their loved ones.

November 2 is All Souls' Day to commemorate those who have passed within the faith, the two celebrations are closely related.

On All Soul’s Day, and throughout the month of November, it is customary for Catholic Christians and many other Christian denominations to pray for the dead, asking for God’s mercy and forgiveness for any sins those who have died, may have committed during their earthly life.