The church gathers on Nov 2 to remember those of our beloved who have gone to their rest.On the border, this is a particular day. An altar is prepared, with symbols and rituals that date back centuries. The altar blesses the absence in life created by death. It serves as well as a subtle bridge between our present and the memories of what is now past.
There are chrysanthemums, or "cempasuchil" in the Aztec language, a flower whose bright colors are thought to guide the dead home.
Glasses of water and bread are placed on the altar for those deceased who might suffer thirst or hunger as they make their way to God. Candles give off the light of hope and photos that remind us in a vivid way of those whom we miss so much.
Our first celebration took place on the Mexican side of the border, in the front yard of generous family (the local priest had closed the church to the community). Mostly women and children (the men are still at work) gathered at dusk and in the midst of mosquitos, the stench from the local sewer and the noise of a busy neighborhood street, prayed for those who had passed on.The second celebration takes place in the parish in
Brownsville. The church filled up with families. A list is made of over 350 names (all of which are read aloud). With each name, a family stands up, until the church is filled with people aware, again, that death is not the final word.
