What is an ofrenda?

Saint Philip’s All Souls' requiem will begin with a reading of the parish necrology and then conclude in the garden columbarium with prayers at the ofrenda.

An ofrenda ("offering," in Spanish) is an altar built to honor departed loved ones. Traditionally, memento mori and other offerings are placed upon it to help us remember and celebrate the lives of those who have died. Memento mori can include such items as photographs, keepsakes, icons of saints, flowers, and candles.

In addition to the submission of names of loved ones and friends for whom people desire prayers (by emailing Fr Peter at peter.helman@stphilipstucson.org), beginning Tuesday, October 26, we invite everyone to drop off their own memento mori at the ofrenda set up in the garden columbarium. These will be available to pick up until Sunday, November 7.