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CV NEWS FEED // The first of three prayerful and joyful celebrations for Día de los Muertos at Catholic cemeteries in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles will take place this weekend.
“As November approaches, known in the Catholic Church as the Month of Remembrance, it is a time for us to come together to honor our loved ones who have passed away,” said Brian McMahon, director of community outreach for Catholic Cemeteries and Mortuaries for the Archdiocese, according to an emailed press release from the Archdiocese.
As CatholicVote previously reported, Hallowtide spans three days on the Catholic liturgical calendar: All Hallow’s Eve, All Saints’ Day, and All Souls Day. It is celebrated with various traditions across cultures. In Mexico, the Día de los Muertos, also called the Day of the Dead, is commemorated especially through placing marigold flowers on the graves of saints and loved ones and by building ofrendas.
“In commemorating Día de los Muertos, we aim to bring different communities together while highlighting the beauty and significance of this day,” McMahon said, also noting the reality of the Church Militant’s spiritual connection with the faithful departed. He noted the celebrations require a collaborative effort with religious authorities, local artists, and community groups.
Both Archbishop José H. Gomez and Auxiliary Bishop Matthew Elshoff are involved, as they will celebrate Mass at two of the cemeteries on November 2, All Souls Day. Archbishop Gomez will celebrate Mass at Santa Clara Cemetery, and Auxiliary Bishop Elshoff will celebrate Mass at San Fernando Mission Cemetery.
On October 26, at Calvary Cemetery, which is celebrating its 10th Annual Día de los Muertos, Msgr. John Moretta will celebrate Mass to begin the day.
After each of these Masses is celebrated, there will be reverent processions and a blessing of altars, according to the press release. The pilgrim images of Our Lady of Guadalupe and St. Juan Diego will be a part of the procession at Santa Clara Cemetery.
After the procession, there will be activities lasting all afternoon, including “a ‘fiesta’ with a wide choice of food and vendors, traditional altars, art exhibits, folkloric dancers, live music and activities for children,” according to the press release.
“The events will offer a unique opportunity for families to enjoy a Catholic tradition that unites faith, prayer and cultural heritage to honor the faithful departed,” the press release notes.
Those interested in learning more about the Día de los Muertos events the Catholic Cemeteries and Mortuaries is hosting can click here.
