ALL SOULS DAY AND DAY OF THE DEAD CELEBRATE THE DEPARTED
ALL SOULS DAY AND DAY OF THE DEAD CELEBRATE THE DEPARTED
The beginning of November is the time for some notable annual events that pay tribute to the dead and honor their lives, such as Day of the Dead, All Souls Day, and even All Saints Day.
Although trick-or-treating and dressing up in spooky costumes have their roots in these events, I'm not referring to Halloween.
Regardless of religion or spirituality, a person's life and impact can continue beyond their passing. Instead, those who were left behind can celebrate the love they had and the memories of their time on this planet.
Around the world, annual events honoring the lives and death of individuals who have passed away include Day of the Dead and Christian All Souls' Day.
Exactly what is the Day of the Dead?
Day of the Dead, also known as Da de Los Muertos, is a Mexican celebration that you may have heard of or at least recognized by the sugar skull that has become a symbol of Mexico in international culture.
To honor departed loved ones, the two-day festival is widely honored in Latin America and the United States. Every year on November 2, the feast is observed in conjunction with All Souls' Day ceremonies in the Catholic Church. Later, I'll expand a little more on that.
Day of the Dead is not a somber day for mourners to wear all black; rather, it is a vibrant festival to remember the deceased and their lives. Revelers sing and dance for the souls of their departed loved ones while donning festive makeup or skull masks.
Families frequently erect altars in their houses that are stocked with 'ofrendas,' or offerings, for departed family members. Candles, pictures, sentimental objects, a loved one's favorite foods, and vibrantly colored flowers are frequently found on the altars.
These offerings are thought to entice departed spirits to join the festivities, guided by the sound of the prayers, the aroma of the food, and the presence of familiar objects. Families frequently bring picnics to the graves of the departed.
ALL SAINTS AND ALL SOULS DAY
On November 2, Christians—particularly Catholics—celebrate All Souls Day. This day of prayer and remembering the dead is also known as the Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed or the Feast of All Souls.
All Souls Day is a sad occasion to remember and reflect on the lives of those who have passed away, in contrast to the vibrant and joyful rituals of Day of the Dead. Christians make peace with the passing of the deceased while praying for their souls to enter heaven on All Souls Day.
On All Souls Day, Christians are welcome to attend a special liturgy that typically includes songs, music, and prayers. The congregation is frequently asked to add the names of departed family members to a Book of the Dead.
On November 1, the Christian holiday known as All Saints' Day is immediately followed by All Souls Day. On All Saints Day, we have the chance to honor those martyrs and saints who have passed away.
These rituals, celebrations, and commemorations of the dead can serve as a beautiful remembrance of loved ones who are no longer with us rather than serving as a somber reminder of the person who is no longer with us.
Whether via prayer, dancing, eating, or going to their last resting place, commemorating the life and legacy of the deceased can be beneficial to those left behind.