Día de los Muertos
As a community of faith, Dominican gathers each year for a Día de los Muertos celebration as living witnesses to those who have gone before us—a way of honoring and remembering our ancestors and ancestral roots.
Each year, members of our community create ofrendas around campus. These altars are dedicated to the memory of deceased loved ones and friends. During our celebration, we have a procession with mariachis playing traditional music as we bless, pray and reflect at each ofrenda. At the conclusion is the convivenvia, a time of festive celebration in sharing a meal.
Students are always welcome to help in the preparation for our celebration and the construction of ofrendas. Preparation each year begins with a visit and tour of the National Museum of Mexican Art in Pilsen, where we explore ideas based on the Day of the Dead exhibits that are on display at the Museum. Students each year pick a theme for our celebration and our ofrendas reflect different topics based on the theme.
Those interested in assisting with Día de los Muertos preparations can contact University Ministry at ministry@dom.edu.
Las Posadas
Las Posadas is a festive Christmas tradition that reenacts Mary and Joseph's journey in Bethlehem as they search for shelter. This practice of faith involves processions, caroling, prayers and the breaking of piñatas. It's an invitation for communities to come together to share food and prayers as they reflect on the value of hospitality and inclusivity.
Each year at Dominican University, we host our on-campus posadas with a procession through campus, singing the traditional posada songs and reflecting on our commitment of building a more just and humane society for all.
If you are interested in assisting with the planning of Las Posadas, contact ministry@dom.edu.