LASO invites students to bring photos, mementos for 2021 ofrenda in AMU Rotunda, October 28.
Written by Leslie O’Connell
Maybe you’ve seen Coco, the 2017 animated film produced by Pixar and released by Disney. It’s set during Día de Los Muertos. Its central theme — family is everything — spotlights the importance of tradition, belonging and remembrance.
In the movie, the central character Miguel finds himself transported to the place of the dead just as the dead are making their way to the land of the living to be with family and friends. The story beautifully portrays the meaning, messages and traditions of Día de Los Muertos.
Campus Ministry and the Latin American Students Organization (LASO) encourage students, faculty and staff to participate in the creation of an ofrenda or altar on campus.
Location: AMU Rotunda, 2nd floor
Set up: Begins at noon on Thursday, Oct. 28
Display through: Following the noon Mass on Tuesday, Nov. 2
You’re invited to bring a picture or provide a memento of a deceased relative or friend to the Campus Ministry office or to the ofrenda at the AMU. You also have the opportunity to write the name of deceased loved ones in the book of remembrance.
What’s the purpose of an ofrenda? Many families and communities create an ofrenda to guide souls back to reunite with loved ones. From simple to elaborate, the ofrenda holds photos and mementos that reflect and honor family members or friends who have died. It pays tribute to their gifts and qualities and draws them back to the realm of the living, if only for a day. Here are tips on things to bring.
Four elements are central to the ofrenda:
Earth: Symbolized by food — such as pan de muerto — or bread of the dead. This delicious sweet bread is said to be an offering to the departed loved one. Other foods may include chocolate, tortillas, tamales or favorite dishes. The aromas draw the spirit of loved ones and provide nourishment for the beloved souls.
Wind: Papel picado — or pecked paper — are colorful tissue paper banners that represent the wind. Like paper snowflakes, they feature elaborate cutout designs. When the banners move, families know their loved ones have arrived.
Fire: Each candle placed on the ofrenda represents a loving soul. The light helps spirits find their way. There’s often an extra one for a forgotten soul.
Water: Water is provided to quench the thirst of the souls after the long journey.
Other traditional features include:
Marigolds: This is the most recognizable flower associated with Día de los Muertos. Its vibrant golds and reds and striking scent helps draw wandering souls back.
Calaveras y calacas: Decorative skulls and skeletons are a common symbol. Sugar skulls represent a departed soul and feature their name on the forehead. Often they grin to laugh at death. These symbols also introduce children to the idea of death so they are not afraid of it.
