Three Days of Remembrance
Like All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is a religious observance that celebrates the life of those no longer with us. It is an innovative, creative way to keep our faithfully departed alive through the memories and stories we share about them. It originated centuries ago with the Aztecs, evolving through the blending of cultural and religious practices of indigenous natives of Mexico with conquering Christian beliefs. Rather than viewing Death as something to be feared, it recognizes the grander cycle of life in which we recognize Death simply as another phase to move through.
This year we will be celebrating the love and memories of those who have gone before us in the following three ways:
Taizé Service and Ofrendas/Altars – All Souls Day
Tuesday, November 2nd at 6:00 p.m.
We will gather for a traditional Taizé service with music, scripture, silence, candles, and prayers. This service will also include an Ofrenda (altar). You are invited to bring photos (no larger than an 8×10) of your loved ones and we will set them up along with the Dia de los Muertos decorations and candles. We will remember all souls who have gone before us including those who have died from Covid, and as a result of racism, poverty, and hunger. We will remember and celebrate all the souls who make up the communion of saints. It would be helpful if you could have your photos here by noon on Monday – so we can set up for the service. They can be dropped off in the church office.
Family Movie Night – “Coco”
Friday, November 5th. – On the Sports Court at 7:00 p.m.
We will gather together on the Sports Court for Disney’s movie “Coco” a story about a young boy named Miguel who dreams of becoming an accomplished musician like his idol Ernesto de la Cruz. Desperate to prove his talent, Miguel finds himself in the stunning and colorful Land of the Dead. This story of “Coco” is about family, connecting with loved ones, pursuing your dreams, and is delightful for the young and the not so young! We will have snacks and drinks available – but we ask that you bring your own folding chair, blanket, pillows. Watch the Coco movie trailer here!
All Saints’ Sunday and Ofrendas/Altars
Sunday, November 7th, at 8:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.
We will celebrate All Saints’ Day, also called the Feast of All Saints, on Sunday, November 7th. We will remember and give thanks for the saints in our lives who have gone before us. During the service we will read the names of those who have died in the last 15 years. If you have a name of a saint in your life that you would like added to the list, please email or call LaSabra in the church office. During the 10:30 a.m. service we will also have the ofrenda altar set up where you can bring photos, memorabilia and momentos of your loved ones who have passed. If you could have these items at the church by 10:00 a.m. – that would be really helpful. You are welcome to drop off your items for the altar in the church office anytime during the week as well .
We hope you will join us for these three days of remembrance where we will remember and rejoice in the communion of saints and our sure hope in resurrection to eternal life.
