XJA Celebrates Hallowtide: Honoring the Communion of Saints

Xavier Jesuit Academy embraced the sacred days of Hallowtide this week, teaching students about the deep connection between the living and the faithful departed through the beautiful tradition of Día de Muertos.

Mrs. Woodall, XJA's religion teacher, guided students in creating The Ofrenda, a traditional altar featuring photos of loved ones who have passed away. Students submitted pictures of grandparents, family members, and friends, learning to honor their memory as part of the Communion of Saints.

"The Communion of Saints is that connection or that bond between all of us who believe and who are called to live good lives of service and holiness," Mrs. Woodall explained to students. "It's the bond between those living and dead."

Throughout the month, students explored what it means to become a saint, discovering that holiness is not reserved for a select few but is a call for everyone. Using wisdom from Thomas Merton, the Trappist monk who lived at the Abbey of Gethsemane in Kentucky, Mrs. Woodall helped students understand that "to be a saint is to really, truly be your true self."

The celebration of Hallowtide includes three sacred days: All Hallows' Eve (Halloween) on October 31st, All Saints Day on November 1st, and All Souls Day on November 2nd. While Día de Muertos is traditionally celebrated in Mexico, its message of remembering and honoring the deceased resonates deeply with the Catholic understanding of the Communion of Saints.