In community, we celebrate together, and we support each other through challenging times. When Hannia, an assistant, came up with the idea of celebrating Day of the Dead at L’Arche Chicago, our community was beyond excited.
Over the last several years, many core members and assistants have mourned the loss of a loved one. It’s become so important for our homes to come together as we experience grief. While nothing can replace the loss of a loved one, sitting around a dinner table surrounded by those you love can help provide comfort.
Our Day of the Dead celebration was a wonderful way for us to continue supporting each other through the pain of losing a loved one. With Hannia’s guidance, our homes shared sopa de fideo, a traditional Mexican noodle soup, and created altars, called ofrendas (offerings) to remember our deceased loved ones. It was deeply meaningful to see everyone’s eyes light up as they talked about their favorite memories of their loved ones.
“With Day of the Dead approaching, I wanted to share my culture and gifts of creating time and space to celebrate and honor those who have passed in our lives. ‘Sacred Stories’ Ofrenda Making Night gave me the opportunity to celebrate a tradition I grew up with while learning about the people who are special to others. I enjoyed seeing how everyone participated in their own way, whether through sharing memories, pictures, or simply being present. This celebration created a space for connection, remembrance, and appreciation. It was especially meaningful to share a part of my culture while allowing others to experience the beauty of honoring those who are no longer with us,” shared Hannia.
