The Day of the Dead – Celebrating the Continuation of Life

This weekend we pause from our busy lives to intentionally dedicate an evening to honour our ancestors and loved ones who have passed away. This observance is commonly known as the ‘Day of the Dead’, a colourful Mexican tradition with roots in the Aztec festival for the Goddess Mictecacihuatl, The Lady of The Dead. Many cultures across the globe have honoured their ancestors for centuries with special celebrations dedicating altars, shires or “Ofrendas”.

For most people, the subject of death is something that triggers fear, or is considered morbid; inappropriate for  conversation. However, death is part of life.  We are all going to die at some point and it’s a much easier process if we come to terms with the transition as a normal part of life.  The unknown after death creates fear but in cultures where commemorating the departed is an annual event, the tradition is joyful as celebrants believe that death is not the end, but rather the beginning of a new stage in life, or the continuation of life.

On the eve of the ‘Day of the Dead’, (the basis for Hallowe’en) we stand by the belief that the gate between the worlds of the living and the dead opens up for a short time, and that during those moments our ancestors and departed loved ones cross the gate to reconnect with us. Guided by a celebratory intention, we will create our sacred space to openly praise their life in an intimate way.

Written orientation will be sent to participants a 2 weeks before to the retreat. It will include:
– A brief historical and cultural background including the spiritual meaning of the celebration.
– Suggestions for the items to bring to help create the sacred space.