Which one do you celebrate? What is your tradition?
I know that for most Americans the big event this week was Halloween. I do love to see the sweet little toddlers dressed up as pumpkins. Other cultures celebrate differently and on different days, some on November 1st and some on the 2nd. I think each has it’s unique beauty.
While I enjoy Halloween, my favorite part of the week comes the next day, on All Saints day. It may be a holy day of obligation, but I really like mass on this day. It’s a day honoring all the saints in the church, really those who have gone before us. We are all called to be saints so remembering the sinners who became saints gives me some hope.
In France on November 1st, La Toussaint, some families may go to mass, but most buy flowers, chrysanthemums, and take them to the cemeteries to place on the graves of their loved ones who have passed. Many bring and light candles as well. I imagine a festive atmosphere as the cemetery is filled with life and light and probably some funny stories about people who have passed.
In Mexico the big celebration occurs on November 2nd, All Souls Day, El dia de los muertos. This feast is for all the departed, not just the saints. Families create alters in their homes filled with photos, mementos, and favorite foods of those who have passed. It’s a way to remember and pass on stories to the next generation. Some friends shared photos of their beautiful alters with me this year. I am touched.
I think both traditions are equally as lovely. Let’s take a moment as the weather turns colder to remember. As for me? I didn’t go to a cemetery, but I did go to mass. Afterward, I lit candles for all my loved ones and prayed for them, not just the dead, but the living as well.
