Diocese of Orange to Celebrate All Souls’ Day and El Día de los Muertos
GARDEN GROVE, CALIF., (OCTOBER 27, 2016) – The Diocese of Orange will host multiple events to celebrate All Souls’ Day, the ancient feast day honoring the dead. The celebrations will include a special El Día de los Muertos observance at Christ Cathedral and a series of outdoor Masses at diocesan cemeteries, including one led by the Most Rev. Kevin Vann, Bishop of Orange.
“This sacred tradition reminds us of our commitment to live holy lives and that our prayers can help in the purification of souls destined for Heaven,” said Bishop Vann. “Our annual celebration of All Souls’ Day highlights the rich culture and devotion of the people of our Diocese.”
Upcoming Celebrations
El Día de los Muertos Observance at Christ Cathedral
In honor of the Latin American tradition, the Diocesan Office of Hispanic Ministries will hold its annual observance in Spanish.
- When: Saturday, October 29, from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- Where: The Plaza at Christ Cathedral, Garden Grove
- Special Mass: A Mass will be held at 2:30 p.m. in the Arboretum.
All Souls’ Day Mass with Bishop Vann
- When: Wednesday, November 2, at 10:00 a.m.
- Where: Holy Sepulcher Cemetery (7845 E. Santiago Canyon Rd, Orange)
- Celebrant: The Most Rev. Kevin Vann, Bishop of Orange
About These Sacred Traditions
- All Souls’ Day: This Roman Catholic holy day is a time to pray for the souls of the faithful departed who are undergoing purification in what the Catechism of the Catholic Church explains as “purgatory,” to achieve the holiness necessary to enter heaven.
- El Día de los Muertos (The Day of the Dead): This tradition, passionately observed in Mexico and other Latin American countries, dates back hundreds of years. It is marked by festivities and the building of intricate altars with offerings of food, flowers, candles, and photos to honor deceased loved ones. Many families visit the graveyards of their loved ones and celebrate with a picnic as they remember the deceased.
All Souls’ Day Masses Across the Diocese: Wednesday, November 2nd
Holy Sepulcher Cemetery – 10:00 a.m.
- 7845 E. Santiago Canyon Rd, Orange, CA 92869
- Celebrant: Bishop Kevin Vann
Ascension Cemetery – 10:00 a.m.
- 24754 Trabuco Rd, El Toro, CA 92630
- Celebrant: Reverend George Blais
Good Shepherd Cemetery – 10:00 a.m.
- 8301 Talbert Ave, Huntington Beach, CA 92646
- Celebrant: Reverend Sergio Ramos
Contact Information
Pastoral Center: Communications Department
13280 Chapman Avenue, Garden Grove, CA 92840
Office: 714-282-3075
Fax: 714-282-3029