Each year on Nov. 2, Catholics flock to cemeteries and columbariums to pray over their loved ones who have passed on in celebration of All Souls’ Day. It’s a solemn period, where families gather together to remember the deceased and talk about the memories they have left behind. But it leaves the question, how did All Souls’ Day and the traditions we follow with it come to be?

All Souls’ Day can be traced back to the 11th century. While there is no exact date as to when it started, the celebration was thought of by Odilo of Cluny, who served as the head of the influential monastery of the Abbey of Cluny in medieval France. According to legend, Odilo came up with All Souls’ Day after a pilgrim approached him to share the visions he had while being stranded on an island. These visions were of purgatory, a place where the departed must endure purification and atone for their sins before entering heaven. Intrigued by the visions, Odilo assigned Nov. 2 as a special day of prayer for all the departed, placed just one day after All Saints’ Day when saints are honored.

So how does one celebrate All Souls’ Day? It varies worldwide. For instance, anyone who has seen Disney’s Coco or Jorge R. Gutiérrez’s The Book of Life might know that Mexicans observe what is known as Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). During this special holiday, families build private altars containing the favorite food and beverages of their dearly departed. Sometimes they also include memorabilia such as pictures, letters, and other possessions from family members who have passed. Graves are also decorated with colorful flowers. Often the Mexican marigold is used for its vibrant orange color. 

Meanwhile in the Philippines, the season of Undas has families driving in droves to cemeteries with food, flowers, and candles. Usually, the food is used for a mini picnic for the family to share and eat at the gravesite since it serves as a mini-reunion for those coming from far-off places. Flowers, often the sampaguita, are then placed by the grave as a sign of respect. Candles are lit in hopes of giving peace to our departed loved ones. It’s also a common practice for everyone to recite the rosary during this gathering as it is believed to help lead souls into heaven. 

Whatever way we might celebrate All Souls’ Day, it’s important to remember that this is a time to gather with your loved ones and cherish their presence. It’s also a great moment to look back at all the fun memories left behind by friends and family who have moved on to the next life.