This past weekend, while the children dressed as the spirits of Halloween, the adults prepared their home altars for the yearly visit of the spirits of those who have passed on. The feast of All Souls (November 2nd) is an ancient tradition—in the Americas, one that goes back long before the Europeans arrived—a celebration of the presence of those who have died.
The altars are elaborate; the symbols many. Tissue paper with ornaments cut into the center hangs along the edges of the altar, the better to catch the breeze, representing the breath of God moving amongst us all. There are candy skulls and pictures of skeletons dancing and playing guitar. The message is clear: death may be respected, but it is not to be feared.
A candle is lighted for each loved one who has died. One other candle is lighted for those who have died and have been forgotten. On this day, all are welcomed home.
Bright orange flowers—marigolds—are laid out in a path that leads the spirits to the altar. Incense is burned, reminding us of the transformation from death to life. Photos of the dearly departed are arranged amongst plates of the food that they used to enjoy when with us (tamales, mole, atole).
And one or two details are place here and there on the altar—a baseball cap that grandpa used to wear, the old watch of a favorite uncle. The last bit of adornment is perhaps the most important: silence. The family gathers beholds the altar in silence, and in silence receive the blessed memory of those who have gone before us.
(Altar de los muertos, San Felipe de Jesús, designed by Elizabeth Garcia and parishioners)
