Ultimately, Día de los Muertos symbolizes Catholic teaching on the Communion of Saints.

The bread, or pan de muertos, represents the generosity of the host and a gift from the earth.

Skulls, or calaveras, typically made of sugar, are a reminder that death is always present and should not be feared as long as one is in right relationship with God.Their bright color is said to be a celebration of life and Christ’s conquering of death. Flowers, particular yellow marigolds known as cempasuchil, are spread across the altar.The souls of the dead are invited to refresh themselves for their continued journey. It may also represent the regenerative cycle of life and death. A bowl or glass of water represents a cleansing or purity of souls.Candles symbolize the light of Christ and are offered as prayers for the souls of the deceased.Colorful cut tissue paper represents joy.Many altars will also incorporate pictures of the Virgen de Guadalupe or other depictions of the Blessed Mother. Spanish missionaries insisted on displaying crosses and crucifixes prominently on the altars and that tradition has persisted to this day.Many altars will include favorite items or mementos from those individuals. Pictures, paintings, and images of deceased loved ones are places on the altar so that their souls can be prayed for and remembered.Alternatively, many suggest a three-tiered altar represents the Trinity. A three-tiered altar incorporates the first levels and also includes purgatory. A two-tier altar represents Heaven and earth. Here are some of the symbols associated with the ofrendas and altars. Although many might adopt a solemn or introspective attitude at the gravesites of their loved ones, this does not ultimately diminish from the celebration of Christ conquering death and the possibility that one’s loved ones have returned to God.Īn important element of Día de los Muertos are the ofrendas (offerings) that are placed on home altars and brought to the gravesites. Yet the Church always encourages Catholics to pray for the souls of the dead, which is a spiritual work of mercy. To be clear, the Catechism of the Catholic Church rejects all forms of divination. It might be assumed that Día de los Muertos involves some sort of conjuring or worship of one’s deceased loved ones.In reality, Día de los Muertos serves as an opportunity to reflect upon the natural cycle of life and death and to assess one’s own readiness for entering into Heaven. Some might misinterpret popular symbols of the celebration such as skeletal face make-up as glorification of death.In fact, attending Mass is an essential part of the celebration.

Día de los Muertos is not “Mexican Halloween.” There are no ghosts, witches, and things like that.Unfortunately, there are some common misconceptions about the celebration that require clarification. Although the celebration incorporates pre-Columbian indigenous elements, the modern Día de los Muertos is a reverent way to celebrate the Church’s teaching on the Communion of Saints and to pray for the souls of the deceased. Decorate with things such as figurines and colorful skulls, which represent the cycle of life and death.Janelle Peregoy explains how Día de los Muertos celebrates Church teaching on the Communion of Saints, and shares a prayer for the souls of the deceased.ĭía de los Muertos, or 'Day of the Dead,' is primarily a Mexican tradition of celebrating the Catholic feasts of All Souls Day and All Saints Day.Add your loved ones' favorite foods to the altar as an offering.The light from candles is also an element that helps spirits return.The bright color and strong scent of cempasúchil is believed to make it easier for deceased loved ones to find their way back to you. To achieve this, you can stack boxes underneath the tablecloth. Ofrendas may also have several layers – the top layer represents heaven while the base represents earth. It is customary in Mexican culture to use a serape, which has its own distinct striped pattern. The table is then draped with a decorative tablecloth. The first thing you will need is a table - any kind will do.Decorations, such as skulls and tissue paper flowers.

Dia de los muertos altar name