31.10.2024
· Cardinal · Answer
At the cemetery I think about death. But I do not visit the dead, but those who have returned home. It’s good to think about her these days.
“Answers” by Cardinal Christoph Schönborn, from the newspaper HEUTE, Thursday, October 31, 2024.
Tomorrow is All Saints Day. Three days off! And today for many it is also Halloween. It is often forgotten that Halloween has its origins in the festival of All Saints. It is celebrated on the evening and night before All Saints’ Day. A strange mix: horror and fun on Halloween with pumpkin faces, bats and skeletons tonight, then tomorrow All Saints Day and commemoration of the dead, visits to the cemetery and graves.
This is all perfect for fall. The leaves are falling, the night comes early, the mists cover the ground. No wonder Samhain has been associated with death and dying ever since. Nature reminds us of our own mortality. We all know that life’s journey has an end. The hymn adds “We are but guests on earth and wander without rest with many complaints towards our eternal home.” Life comes and goes. All Saints’ Day reminds us of heaven, the goal of life.
I like to say about someone who has died: He went home. At the cemetery I think about death. But I do not visit the dead, but those who have returned home. It’s good to think about her these days.
created by: Cardinal Christoph Schönborn
31.10.2024
Time.news Editor: Good day, everyone! Today, we are diving into a topic that feels both poignant and relevant, especially as we approach All Saints’ Day. I’m here with Dr. Elena Meyer, a cultural anthropologist who specializes in rituals surrounding death and remembrance. Thank you for joining us, Dr. Meyer!
Dr. Meyer: Thank you for having me! It’s great to be here.
Time.news Editor: To start, let’s talk about All Saints’ Day. What significance does this day hold in various cultures, particularly in relation to remembering those we have lost?
Dr. Meyer: All Saints’ Day is a fascinating blend of commemoration and celebration. In many cultures, this day acts as a poignant reminder of the cycle of life and death. It serves as an opportunity for individuals to reflect on their loved ones who have passed away, bringing forth personal memories as well as shared cultural traditions. For example, in many Latin American countries, this day coincides with Día de los Muertos, where families honor their deceased relatives with colorful altars and offerings.
Time.news Editor: That’s beautiful. The imagery of altars and offerings provides such a vibrant connection between the living and the dead. What about in more somber contexts, such as in European cemeteries? What role do these spaces play in the grieving process?
Dr. Meyer: Cemeteries in Europe, particularly around All Saints’ Day, serve as communal spaces for reflection. The act of visiting these sites often becomes more than just a personal pilgrimage; it transforms into a social event where communities come together to commemorate their lost ones. Lighting candles, as seen in many traditions, symbolizes hope and remembrance, creating a shared atmosphere of solace and connection among the living.
Time.news Editor: Speaking of lights and rituals, many people are drawn to the idea of creating a physical space for their memories. How do modern practices of remembering the dead compare to historical ones?
Dr. Meyer: Historically, rituals surrounding death were often elaborate and steeped in tradition, but today we’re witnessing a shift towards more individualized expressions of grief. While some people still adhere to traditional practices, many are finding new ways to honor their deceased loved ones. This can include creating personalized memorials or participating in online commemorations. The essence remains—finding a meaningful way to remember and connect.
Time.news Editor: That’s a really interesting point. With the advent of digital spaces, it seems our relationship with death and memory is evolving. How do you see technology influencing our mourning rituals?
Dr. Meyer: Technology certainly adds layers to our understanding of memory and mourning. Online memorials and social media allow individuals to share their grief publicly, creating support networks that transcend geographical boundaries. However, it’s a double-edged sword—while it promotes connection, it also may lead to feelings of commercialization or insincerity about death. The challenge lies in balancing these new methods with genuine, heartfelt remembrance.
Time.news Editor: As we wrap up, what are your hopes for the future of death and remembrance in our communities?
Dr. Meyer: My hope is that as we continue to confront our mortality, societies will embrace a diverse range of mourning practices. By doing so, we can create more inclusive spaces for shared grief and connection, honoring not only the dead but also the living who carry their memories forward. Ultimately, it’s about fostering understanding and compassion among us all.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Meyer! Your insights have provided a wonderful lens through which to view a topic many find challenging yet deeply human. We hope our audience reflects on their own ways of remembering and honoring loved ones, especially as All Saints’ Day approaches. Thank you for joining us!
Dr. Meyer: Thank you for having me! It’s been a pleasure.