The Diocese of Malolos said parishes under its jurisdiction are putting up “memorial walls” outside churches for people to light candles and to offer prayers on All Souls’ Day.
“The idea is to place a simulated wall outside the church where people can place a photo of the deceased,” read the guidelines issued by Bishop Dennis Villarojo of Malolos.
“Beforehand, the names of the deceased are enrolled in the parish, so that the office can allot a space for the picture,” added the guidelines for the celebration of “Undas” 2020.
“There will also be a candle holder where people can light their candle. On All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day, people may offer short prayers in front of the picture of their deceased,” it added.
The guidelines noted that health protocols should be observed with the help of the parish Health and Sanitation Ministry and village officials.
The diocese said parishes may also have a “tumba” or catafalque by having a small table, covered by a cloth with the crucifix on top and two candles.
“Names of the deceased written in white small envelope in a box may be placed under the table,” read the guidelines.
“At the end of the Mass, the priest may go where the ‘tumba’ is located, (and) make a short prayer for the deceased,” it added.
At home, families are encouraged to put up an altar with a crucifix, statues of saints, the picture of the beloved departed and two candles on it where family members can gather to remember and to pray for the deceased.
“Even when the present circumstances do not permit us to do what we have been used to and what has been part of the tradition, we can be ingenious so as to show that death does not cut the tie that binds us to our beloved deceased through our Lord Jesus Christ,” read the guidelines.
