Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is an opportunity to remember and celebrate the lives of departed loved ones. It originated in Mexico and is celebrated throughout Latin America and some areas of the U.S., especially California. Several members of our congregation have celebrated Dia de los Muertos as part of their upbringing. This holiday originated several thousand years ago with the Aztec, Toltec, and other Nahua people who considered death a natural phase in life’s continuum. The dead were still members of the community, kept alive in memory and spirit—and during Día de los Muertos, they temporarily returned to Earth. Gradually, it was associated with Oct 31, Nov 1, and Nov 2 to coincide with the Christian observance of All Saints’ Eve, All Saints’ Day, and All Souls’ Day.

Traditions associated with Dia de Muertos include going to cemeteries to be with the souls of the departed & building private altars containing the favorite foods and beverages, as well as photos and memorabilia, of the departed. The centerpiece of the celebration is an altar, or ofrenda, built in private homes and cemeteries. These aren’t altars for worship; rather, they’re meant to welcome spirits back to the realm of the living.

At St. Martin’s on Sunday, Nov. 4, we will honor this day by having an ofrenda near the columbarium where parishioners can place items to remember or welcome the deceased. We will sing a few songs in Spanish and hear and read reflections written by parishioners about their experiences with Dia de los Muertos. If Dia de los Muertos is part of your tradition and you would like to write a short reflection, please contact (pamela@churchofstmartin.org).