“Undas” celebration perfect for family reunion

CITY OF SAN FERNANDO – To most Kapampangans, “undas” celebration is more than just remembering the departed loved ones  but also a perfect time for family gathering or reunion.

 Prior to  this occasion, tombs are cleaned and repainted, candles are lit, and colorful flowers, prayers  are offered. These all are gestures of  love.

 The entire families even camp in cemeteries and sometimes spend overnight near their relatives' tombs. They also  bring foods,  drinks and cards while sharing the happy memories including ghost stories.

It is a special time of the year wherein families gather together in a family reunion in the cemeteries, memorial parks, and mausoleums.

Kapampangans traditionally visits cemeteries on the first two days of November as government declared the same as holidays.

This gives the people opportunity to leave school and work to join their families as they chat with the memorable achievements and accomplishments even to the slightest thing by their departed loved ones.

Meanwhile, the Catholic faithful reiterated that the spirit behind the celebration of All Saints Day and All Souls' Days is alive as thousands of Kapampangans still gathered in various cemeteries in the province.

“Kahit na mahirap ang buhay. Kahit na tinamaan tayo ng ibat ibang kalamidad, nananatiling buhay ang tradisyon. Hindi pa rin nawawala ang pagmamahal sa mga pumanaw na mahal sabuhay,” Claudine Nieves, a resident here pointed out.

All Souls' Day is a holiday celebrated in country and other  places around the world sharing the same faith and culture.

The celebration takes place on November 1st and 2nd, in connection with the Catholic holidays of All Saints' and All Souls' Day  respectively.