This holy day has often been thought of as a Mexican version of Halloween, though the two holidays do share some traditions, including costumes and parades, there are significant differences. The skeleton and skull decorations are not macabre but part of the celebration.

The actual day of celebrations falls on Nov. 1st and 2nd coinciding with the church calendar of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.

On the Day of the Dead, it’s believed that the border between the spirit world and the real world becomes thinner. During this brief period, the souls of the dead awaken and return to the living world to feast, drink, dance, and play music with their loved ones. Generations of ancestors join in the celebration.

The living family members treat the deceased as honored guests in their celebrations and leave the deceased’s favorite foods and other offerings at gravesites or on the ofrendas built in their homes.

Ofrendas (altars) can be decorated with candles, and bright marigolds, along with food like stacks of tortillas and fruit.

On Friday, Nov. 4th (6pm) for our First Friday potluck, we will be celebrating and learning more about this festival.

People are invited to bring something for the table (ofrenda) to honor your deceased loved ones – such as pictures, mementos, etc. You are also encouraged to bring a favorite family potluck dish to share for our meal.

There will be other activities and opportunities to learn more about this celebration that night.

It is significant for Pastor Jen as Nov. 2nd (All Souls’ day) is the 30th anniversary of her ordination. This date has come to signify not what she has accomplished but a celebration of all those who have walked with her throughout her journey of faith.

Please sign up at church or contact the church office for more information

Check out this movie to get a sense of this holy day: Pixar movie “Coco”