First Graders Visit Day of the Dead Altar

Several years ago, Sister Helga Leija introduced the Mexican tradition of creating a “Day of the Dead” altar at the Mount. The altar is decorated with colorful flags, paper marigold flowers, and sugar skulls and includes photos of deceased loved ones, their favorite foods, and various mementos.

On November 2, 2023, 21 first graders from Saint Benedict’s Catholic School in Atchison came to the Mount to learn about this tradition. As they sat in front of the altar in the library, Sr. Helga read from the book Day of the Dead: A Bilingual Celebration by Bob Barner, and the students learned about the meaning of the symbols on the altar. They then broke into small groups where, with the help of a sister, they wrote down what they learned and colored a picture.

After the lesson, refreshments were served in the monastery dining room. The children snacked on cupcakes decorated with monarch butterflies that had been made by Sister Sharon Hamsa, and the parents and teachers who accompanied the students enjoyed eating traditional Day of the Dead bread. Sister Susan Barber played the piano and led a singalong.

Many sisters did small-group work with the children, set up tables in the dining room, and did other tasks to prepare for the visitors. The sisters enjoyed the enthusiasm of their young guests and were happy to celebrate All Souls Day with them.

The children also enjoyed meeting the Mount’s dog, Sophie, who was dressed in a Day of the Dead skeleton costume for the occasion.