A few weeks ago, my husband and I attended a lecture at the Sam Noble Museum (Norman) given by Dr. Robert Con Davis-Undiano on the Day of the Dead, a Mexican day (or days) of celebration that remembers and honors loved ones through food, altars, marigolds, painted skulls, and storytelling. The presentation explored “the holiday’s rich legacy and the ways it continues to bring people together in celebration of identity and belonging.”
After the lecture, we walked through the museum’s Day of the Dead exhibit. I began wondering about how we in the church honor, remember, and celebrate the saints who have gone before us. Many of us who have a relationship with the church can probably easily name those who made us feel welcome, included, and valued as a member of the church. We may even share stories of these folks with others who knew them when a memory comes to mind.
One of the hallmarks of Day of the Dead celebrations is storytelling—sharing stories of family members, friends, and loved ones who are being remembered. In the church, stories are a vital part of how congregations continue to keep alive the spirit and love of those we remember.
In what ways do congregations honor, remember, and celebrate the saints?
How do we share stories with our youth and children about the people who laid the foundations of a congregation’s ministry with young people?
How do we share stories of youth and children with our congregational boards and elders, in sermons and in worship?
How are we intentional about inviting all ages of church members together to eat, talk, and share?
How are we able to connect the generations through the sharing of stories, ensuring that all have a place and feel that they belong?
How can we remember those who cleared the path that we are now walking in our congregations?
Telling stories is a great way to connect people. Telling stories of experiences, good and bad, can be healing. Telling stories of people and places that made a difference in the life of the church, in the lives of individuals, and in the life of the community reminds a congregation of their DNA, their roots, and their values.
Remembering the past through stories helps congregations appreciate the present by understanding how the community of faith got to where they are. And remembering also inspires hope for the future, offering the youngest among us a sense of belonging to a tradition of love, compassion, and justice, that they can continue in their lives as followers of Christ.