Photo by Elizabeth Alva
Danielle Huber
Business Manager
Franciscan University of Steubenville’s Latinos for Christ club held a traditional celebration to remember the dead Wednesday, Oct. 27, at 8 p.m. in the St. Leo Room.
Junior Ronnie Sebastian, president of Latinos for Christ, presented a PowerPoint of the traditions of “Día de los Muertos,” or Day of the Dead, for those who were not aware of the holiday.
A holiday that originated in Mexico, Día de los Muertos is traditionally celebrated by all members of the Latino community on the evening of Nov. 1 and on Nov. 2 to remember family members and friends who have passed away.
“We are happy to show the community of Franciscan University our customs of el Día de los Muertos,” said Sebastian. “It was really amazing working with my team and (showing) how we can all commemorate our loved ones (by) celebrating their lives.”
A chaplet of divine mercy was led by the members of Latinos for Christ in Spanish for the souls of students’ family members and those who have recently died.
The party offered students the opportunity to buy “conchas,” which are sweet breads with sugar decorated like conch shells, and “abuelita,” which is Mexican-style hot chocolate.
The party concluded with traditional Latino music and dancing.
“I had two whole cups of abuelita and they were marvelous,” junior Clare McGahan said.
“It was a lot of work to put this night together, but it was worth it seeing everyone gathered here,” said junior Nancy Jaramillo, vice president of the club. “It’s beautiful and it’s all we want, to create a family here within the university.”