In today's children's religious education program for the elementary level, Jen Hicks guided an animated learning session about the Mexican religious and secular holiday "Dia de los Muertos" - the Day of the Dead. Unlike American culture which views death and the deceased with discomfort, Mexicans use this day celebrating with festivities as they honor their departed. Entire families congregate in cemeteries which are cleaned and spruced up, graves are lavishly decorated with fresh flowers, altars honoring the ancestors are built; and when the work is done the families sit down to enjoy a special picnic lunch or dinner. In the home, altars are created to honor their loved ones who have passed on, decorated with candles, sugar skull candy, marigolds, photos, and memorabilia and the favorite food and drink of the departed ones. Skeletal manikins are dressed in finery and displayed. These offerings are left out as a welcoming gesture to the spirits of the deceased so they know they are remembered and honored.
The children created a beautiful altar in the lobby for all of us to enjoy during coffee hour, increasing our awareness of and appreciation for this joyful holiday.
A very appropriate lesson. And a great display in the lobby this morning.
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