Hispanic Catholic Funeral Traditions
Hispanic Catholic Funeral Traditions
For generations, we have been privileged to serve families in Corona and Riverside areas, meeting their funeral-care needs. One of the greatest joys of what we do here at Thomas Miller Mortuary & Crematory is working with people from different cultural, ethnic, and faith backgrounds. Riverside County is such a wonderfully diverse place to live, and it’s important to us to be able to help all of our neighbors plan the farewells they want and deserve.
One large ethnic group we have the pleasure of serving are those who hail from Mexico and other Spanish countries. For that reason, our team holds many Hispanic traditions close to their hearts – particularly as they relate to funeral service. Traditions add so much meaning to life – they help shape our values and offer comfort during difficult times.
Hispanic people tend to have a deep, religious view of death. While losing a loved one is never easy, the Catholic belief in eternal life in heaven brings hope. Death is not the end of the road; it is only a beginning.
When it comes to end-of-life traditions in Mexico, a vigil is usually held with family and friends for 24-48 hours. They will join together to share food, and guests will pray and bring the family gifts. The deceased will be buried with their clothing and important possessions. Children will be included from a young age.
Learn More About Hispanic Catholic Funeral Traditions
Mexican-American funerals are different than their homeland counterparts, but the influences and rituals are still visible:
- Children will most likely be present at the wake and funeral. From an early age children are taught about death and eternal life and are typically comfortable with the idea.
- Wakes are held after a death, and often become a social event where food is shared along with laughter and memories of the deceased.
- The funeral typically includes a Catholic Mass.
- Traditional burial is a more popular choice among Mexican-Americans, although that is changing. Either way, the families like to have a place to return to on special days to remember their loved one. All dead ancestors are celebrated each year on All Soul’s Day. Graveside services are also important. According to traditional Mexican beliefs, people begin a new life after they are buried, so they are laid to rest with their favorite items.
- A reception is very common after a Mexican-American funeral. Mourners gather, share food and drink, and comfort one another in their loss.
Here at Thomas Miller, we know how important it is to add personal details to a funeral service, and the healing that happens as a result. We’ll help you design an observance that’s as unique as the life you’re commemorating. You can choose to play the music your loved one enjoyed or say a prayer that is special to your family. In Mexico, a vigil, funeral, and reception help bring together a community to share laughter and memories. Our team can help you do the same. Additionally, if you would like to be buried in Mexico – or whatever country or state is home for you – we can help you arrange this in the most convenient and affordable way.
Our experienced staff embraces the beauty and value of different cultures and recognizes how families move toward healing when they celebrate and honor life together. Reach out to us if you have questions, would like to learn about our preplanning services, or to hear how we can work with you during your time of need.