Remembering our beloved departed

There are three occasions in the Philippines which are celebrated over a period of days. These are Christmas, Holy Week and “Undas,” the local term referring to Nov. 1 and 2. The term comes from the Spanish honras, meaning “honors” as in “with honors.”

All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day are observed in various ways around the world, and the practices in the Philippines are distinctive for their extensive cemetery visits, overnight vigils and communal gatherings.

All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day are two important Christian holidays celebrated on Nov. 1st and 2nd, respectively. These days are dedicated to remembering and honoring the departed, but they have distinct origins, traditions and practices that reflect the rich tapestry of Christian beliefs and customs.

All Souls’ Day, also known as the Commemoration of All the Faithful Departed, can be traced back to the early Middle Ages. The origins of the day are somewhat intertwined with those of All Saints’ Day. While All Saints’ Day primarily honors known and recognized saints, All Souls’ Day is dedicated to praying for all the departed souls, particularly those in purgatory. The belief in purgatory and the need for prayers for the deceased was a significant theological development in the medieval Christian Church.

All Saints’ Day, also known as All Hallows’ Day, has its origins in the early Christian Church. The date of its establishment is not precisely documented but is believed to have emerged in the Western Christian Church during the late 4th century. The original purpose of the day was to commemorate all the saints and martyrs who did not have their specific feast days. The Eastern Orthodox Church had already been commemorating a similar feast, the Sunday of All Saints, on the first Sunday after Pentecost.

The period around All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day in the Philippines is often referred to as “Undas.” Both are revered holidays. It is a significant time for family reunions and gatherings. Families come together to honor their ancestors and strengthen family bonds.

A visit to the cemetery is a mandatory part of the tradition.

In some countries, especially in Latin America and the Philippines, people visit cemeteries to clean and decorate the graves of their loved ones. They light candles and offer flowers as a sign of respect and remembrance.

In the Philippines, visiting cemeteries on All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day is a deeply ingrained tradition. Families clean and decorate the graves of their loved ones with flowers, candles, and other offerings. It’s a communal experience, and people often spend the entire day at the cemetery, sharing meals and prayers with family and friends.

It is not surprising that many Filipinos hold overnight vigils at cemeteries, especially on All Saints’ Day. Families bring tents and camping equipment to stay by the graves of their departed relatives. It’s a way to show devotion and love, ensuring that the souls of the deceased are not alone during the night.

Food offerings also accompany the tradition.  It is common to bring traditional Filipino foods to the gravesites, creating a festive atmosphere. Picnics with favorite dishes of the deceased, such as adobo, suman or bibingka, are enjoyed.

Some commemorations also include entertainment. In some regions, particularly in Pampanga, you may find parades featuring colorful floats, religious processions and even marching bands. Entertainment, such as local bands and performers, is often part of the festivities.

The inclusion of festivities is also a practice especially in Latin America. All Saints’ Day is celebrated with lively festivals and parades. These festivities often feature music, dancing and traditional foods, creating a joyful atmosphere that remembers the departed with a sense of celebration. It is a way to honor the deceased with joy and colorful traditions.

In Mexico, this tradition is part of the larger celebration known as “Dia de los Muertos” (Day of the Dead), which combines indigenous traditions with Catholic beliefs.

All Souls’ Day is a solemn and reflective time to contemplate the mysteries of life, death and the afterlife. It emphasizes the belief in the purification of souls and the hope for redemption even after death. Believers consider the temporary suffering of the souls in purgatory and the need for prayers to alleviate their plight.

It is interesting that in Europe, the commemoration does not happen in cemeteries. In Poland, it is customary to leave empty seats at the dining table for the souls of the departed during All Saints’ Day. In Hungary, people often light candles in their windows to help the souls find their way.

In the Western world, the biggest celebration of this period is Halloween. In the Philippines, it is a time for family reunions and remembering our departed loved ones.

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