El Día de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is celebrated in many Latin American countries, particularly Mexico.
The event is a time to remember and honor the deceased and is usually characterized by ofrendas, or offerings - shrines or altars constructed to present gifts to the spirits.
Because Día de los Muertos is considered a celebration of eternal life rather than a sad event, ofrendas usually reflect whimsical portrayals of the dead as they were when they were living.
St. Philip's in the Hills Episcopal Church invites you to remember your departed loved ones by contributing to an ofrenda, which will be set up in the Columbarium Garden at St. Philip's through Nov. 1.
Photographs, meaningful objects and memorabilia and candles contained in glass are all suitable offerings. Candles on which you may write your loved one's name are available in the office for a small donation. The office is open 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
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The ofrenda will be used in conjunction with two special services:
• At 9 a.m. Sunday there will be a family-friendly "Comfy-Space" service in the Columbarium Garden. This service is set up in an informal space, with activities, lessons and songs designed to hold the interest of younger worshippers.
Worshippers of all ages are welcome.
• This Sunday's service will explore the circle of life and death and will include an art activity, a procession, drumming with various instruments, prayers and communion.
The public is invited to attend - particularly people who like to wiggle in church and those who worship with them.
• On Monday, St. Philip's will celebrate All Soul's Day (one day early) with a special Memorial Eucharist at 7 p.m. Particular attention will be given to remembering those who have died within the past two years, but we will celebrate all our loved ones who have died.
The church invites families to remember their loved ones by lighting one of the votive candles outside the church door before the service and placing it on the altar.
The service concludes with a procession into the Columbarium Garden for candle-lighting and prayers. Afterward, the celebration of life continues with a festive reception.
For more information about the ofrenda, contact Stella Lopez at stella.lopez@ stphilipstucson.org or 299-6421; for information about the services, contact the Rev. Clare Yarborough at clare.yarborough@stphilips tucson.org or 299-6421.
St. Philip's is at 4440 N. Campbell Ave. The Columbarium Garden is located to the west of the main church.
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