The Feast of All Souls’ has been celebrated throughout the world for centuries. In the Western world, it is celebrated on November 2, the day after All Saints’ Day. Though some protestant denominations celebrate All Souls’ Day, it is predominately a Catholic holiday and feast. Catholics believe that by praying and making sacrifices for their departed loved ones, they aid those who are suffering in purgatory and help speed their way to heaven. All Souls Day is also less commonly known as the Commemoration of all the Faithfully Departed.
The History of All Souls' Day
Though the Catholic Church sets aside the entire month of November in memory of the dead, St. Odilo, the abbot of Cluny (France) who lived in the 11th century was the first to officially dedicate the second day in November as a day to commemorate those who had departed this world. So many superstitions clung to the Feast of All Souls' Day though that not until recently has the religious and spiritual aspect surfaced past all the pagan connotation.
Feast of All Souls' Day Traditions and Customs
There are many traditions associated with All Souls’ Day but perhaps the most common is the feeding of the dead. Many cultures leave a meal out overnight for their loved ones who have died and believe that their soul comes down to feast on it once everyone is asleep. Some even claim that food is missing the next morning.
Dia de Los Muertos
The holiday is celebrated most extensively in Spain and the countries of Central America where it is called Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). Here it is a common belief that it is easier for the dead to come back to earth and visit their living relatives on the Feast of All Souls Day, or Dia de los Muertos. Alters are erected and piled with food and trinkets as well as wreaths of flowers, much like a coffin or grave would be adorned. Breads, candies, and cakes are made in the shapes of skulls and death related symbols. The names of the dead are often inscribed on these edible mementos.
English Customs and All Souls' Day Baking
In England and some parts of Europe there is a tradition called “souling” or “soul-caking.” Children go from door to door and ask for cakes in remembrance for those who have died. Though the cakes that were given out have changed over the centuries, they were almost always oval shaped and sweet. Many families make the cakes when their children get home from school on All Souls’ Day and then take a few cakes as an offering to the graves of their departed relatives. You can make your own “soul cakes” with a simple shortbread cookie recipe. Simply cut an oval piece of paper and use this as a pattern to cut the dough with a knife.
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