Des Plaines shrine celebrating All Souls Day

A special celebration beginning at 4 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 2, at the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe, 1170 North River Road in Des Plaines, will mark All Souls Day, or Día de los Muertos.

Families are invited to create traditional altars on the grounds surrounding the shrine in honor of their deceased loved ones, with photos, memorabilia, their favorite foods and the traditional Pan de Muerto, or bread of the dead. These altars will replicate those created at cemeteries throughout the world including Mexico, Central and South America and Europe.

Rev. Esequiel Sánchez, rector of the shrine, will celebrate the All Souls Day Mass at 7 p.m. Immediately following the Mass, there will be a procession to the location of the altars, stopping at each one for an individual blessing. The All Souls Day celebration will continue with serenades and traditional Mexican music. For information about constructing an altar, call the shrine at (847) 294-1806 or visit www.santuarioguadalupe.org.