Day of the Dead, also known as Dia de Muertos in Spanish, is a Mexican holiday where beloved family members that have died come to visit the living and reunite with loved ones. Although it may be perceived as a somber holiday, it’s actually a grand celebration with music, food and vibrant decorations. Each year, families set up “family altars” with their family members’ photos, flowers, favorite foods and most cherished personal items.
This feast celebrating family ancestors, the observance of The Day of the Dead, goes back to Pre-Columbian times – 3,000 years ago. In the fifteen century the Church sought to merge this cultural tradition and it has come to be celebrated in conjunction with the celebration of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, November 1st and 2nd.
On All Saints’ Day we celebrate the lives of that “cloud of witnesses” which have gone before us and who have left us an example of discipleship we can follow.
The Feast of All Souls’ is a kind of “Memorial Day”; a day in which we remember with gratitude and thanksgiving the people who have gone before us – family and friends.
Mass on Tuesday, November 1st , All Saints’ Day is at 7:00 pm.
Mass on Wednesday, November 2nd, All Soul’s Day is at 7:00 pm.
Father Steve Adrian
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