My Ofrenda

Reflections on Dia de los Muertos

In all houses of worship, there is a sacred space. Illuminated by candles or adored with fine cloth, there is a space observed as holy.

Today, Latino communities around the world celebrating Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, will spend time carefully creating a sacred space to honor and celebrate their ancestors and deceased family members. These ofrendas, or offerings, typically include a photo of the departed family member, marigolds, candles, sugar skulls, and items previously belonging to the deceased. Special foods including pan de muerto, or bread of the dead, is placed on the altar to nourish the ancestors. Vibrant colors, the scent of flowers, and freshly baked pan de muerto give these ofrendas honoring the dead an incredible sense of life.

The creation of ofrendas expresses reverence and gratitude towards the ancestors. And similar to the spiritual center in a house of worship, they can also serve as a place for deep grounding.

Last year at this time, I had just spent the month of October searching for an apartment in France. For four weeks, I had traveled between work and the homes of friends, wheeling all my essentials in a carry-on suitcase wherever I went. Finally, on October 31, I moved into a place of my own, and the first piece of furniture I set up was a small pine bed stand. I laid a yellow cloth over the wood, and placed a candle in the center. This was the beginning of my ofrenda, my altar, my sacred space.

With the celebration of Dia de los Muertos, we are encouraged to remember and honor our ancestors, and as with all spiritual holidays, beckoned to take a break from our daily routine to rediscover that which is holy.

This year, SDI welcomes you to join in this contemplative practice and create a sacred space in your home or office to celebrate those who have departed. Take your time and recall those who have gone before to make a place for you in this world. It doesn’t have to be elaborate; it can be as simple as a pine-wood bed stand with a yellow cloth and a single, flickering candle.