More than 500 years ago, when the Spanish landed in what is now Mexico, they encountered Aztecs practicing a ritual that seemed to mock death. Unlike the Spaniards, who viewed death as the end of life, natives saw it as the continuation of life. Instead of fearing death, they embraced it, believing the dead come back to visit and share in the celebration. In their attempts to convert native people to Catholicism, the Spaniards tried to kill the ritual. But like the old Aztec spirits, the ritual refused to die. To make the practices more Christian, the Spaniards moved it to coincide with All Saints' Day and All Souls' Day (November 1 and 2), which is when it is celebrated today.
As it is known today, Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, was celebrated at 10:30 am on Saturday, October 30th, at Sacred Heart Church with Mass as well as a traditional Dia de los Muertos altar. Everything on the altar has significance.
- Photos of saints that hold a particular importance to the congregation sit on the altar.
- Candles are present and families light them to honor the dead.
- Pan de Muertos, Bread of the Dead, will be eaten by the dead when they visit loved ones.
- Flowers, particularly marigolds, symbolize the shortness of life.
The Mass was celebrated by the children and parents in religious education classes. Afterward, everyone enjoyed a delicious meal of homemade chili, burritos and dessert.
Top photo, traditional altar for Día de los Muertos
Middle photo, Ramon Quezada explains the Aztec origins and symbolism behind each item
Bottom photo, David Solano and Sonya Simental cook up green chili for the feast. All photos Mary Lou Egan
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