When St. Michael’s Church Shines in the Glow of a Thousand Lights

While Halloween is being celebrated in many places, the Salvatorians in the heart of Vienna are offering a more contemplative way to prepare for All Saints’ Day. At St. Michael’s Church, the “Night of a Thousand Lights” will begin on Saturday, 31 October, with Holy Mass at 6 p.m. From 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., the programme will feature silence, music, Taizé chants and opportunities for personal conversation.

Visitors are invited to leave the hustle and bustle of everyday life behind, find moments of peace and prepare for the Feast of All Saints. The event at St. Michael’s is organised by the Salvatorians.

Discovering the Sacred in Everyday Life

At the heart of the “Night of a Thousand Lights” is the question of where we can encounter the sacred in our own lives. All Saints’ Day commemorates not only officially canonised saints but also those whose actions bring light into the lives of others. These everyday saints remind us that holiness is not limited to extraordinary deeds but can also be found in small, seemingly insignificant acts.

The warm glow of candlelight offers an invitation to reflect on life, find renewed strength and make room for personal spirituality.

Thousands of Lights Across Austria

In 2026, the “Night of a Thousand Lights” will take place for the 22nd time. On 31 October, numerous parishes and church institutions throughout Austria will participate in the initiative. Young people and volunteers will transform churches, chapels and other spaces with candles, music, readings and spiritual reflections.

The central idea is to offer people a different way of experiencing sacred spaces. Rather than following a strictly structured programme, many locations focus on personal reflection, prayer and the opportunity to immerse oneself in the unique atmosphere of the evening.

The initiative was first held in Tyrol in 2005 and was inspired by the candlelit prayer services of the Taizé Community. Since then, it has become an established tradition throughout Austria and South Tyrol.

Lighting a Candle Online

Those unable to attend an event in person can also light a virtual candle on the “Night of a Thousand Lights” website. This offers an opportunity to express gratitude, pray for healing for oneself or others, and feel symbolically connected with thousands of other participants.

A complete list of participating locations and further information can be found at www.nachtder1000lichter.at.

Night of a Thousand Lights at St. Michael’s Church

Saturday, 31 October 2026

Location: St. Michael’s Church (Michaelerkirche), 1010 Vienna, Austria

6 p.m.: Holy Mass

7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.: Silence, music, Taizé chants and opportunities for personal conversation

Organiser: Salvatorians

Further informations:
Michaelerkirche

Quelle: kathpress