UU Family News
October 30, 2026
Letter from the Director - gratitude for families, an update about what kids can expect this Sunday, and a prayer request for Mark Angleton (Mrs. Sunday's Dad)
This Sunday 11/1 - All Saints' Day and Dias de los Muertos.
Next Sunday 11/8 - Learning about the Power of Words
Save-the-Dates - Uniquely UU Events. Mark your calendars!
Photo Highlights - The Fall Mountain Retreat
Reminder: You're invited to bring a photo of a deceased loved one (human or animal) for the Dias de los Muertos ofrenda this Sunday, November 1st.
Dear UU Families,
Thank you for prioritizing your children’s spiritual wellness and for being such a wonderful part of our UU community. I am so grateful for the opportunity to nurture curiosity, compassion, and justice alongside your beautiful families. And truly, there is nothing quite like starting my Sunday with hugs and high fives from your kids!
This Sunday, November 1, there is lots to learn and experience!
We’ll explore our worship theme of healing, focus on the observance of Indigenous Peoples’ Heritage Month, and learn about 2 holidays that are dear to my heart: Día de los Muertos and All Saints Day.
If you’d like, please bring a photograph or meaningful memento of a loved one this Sunday to share on our Ancestors’ Table, or ofrenda, as we honor those who continue to live in our hearts. Printed photos are just fine, and yes, photos of your pets are welcome on the ofrenda too.
I also have a personal request. Please pray for my dad, Mark Angleton, who was recently diagnosed with cancer and is receiving care at BAMC, the big military medical center in Texas.
I’ll be joining the colonel in November after his surgery. I’m still figuring out what the road ahead will look like, but I’m exploring FMLA leave, so I can help care for him as he heals and learns to live with a laryngectomy stoma.
While I’m away, we’ll need some extra helping hands in Family Ministry to keep our Sunday mornings joyful and welcoming. If you’re able to volunteer on Sunday morning, please let me know. Every helping hand makes a difference!
And please remember, you are always welcome at UUFH, even if your attendance has been sporadic lately. There are no holy days of obligation here, so you can let go of any guilt or shame you may be experiencing. When we see you, we're happy. No strings attached.
I love the children and families who make up our UUFH community, and I am continually reminded of the strength and beauty of the love we share. Thank you for being part of this journey with me.
At UUFH, you are loved, your children are cherished, and our faith is love in action.
With gratitude and so much love,
Sunday Shae Parker
This Sunday we will learn about Dias de los Muertos.
This Sunday we will learn about Dias de los Muertos and the importance of celebrating our ancestors. Multiple learning centers will be set up in the Fellowship Hall including a baking center to make gluten-free pan de muertos, a face-painting center, and an art center with papel picado y calevera crafts.
History and Origins of Dias de los Muertos.
- Mesoamerican Roots: The traditions trace back over 3,000 years to pre-Hispanic indigenous rituals (such as those of the Aztec, Maya, and Nahua) that viewed death as a continuation of life. [1, 2]
- Catholic Blending: Following Spanish colonization, these indigenous customs blended with Roman Catholic holidays—All Saints' Day (November 1, honoring children) and All Souls' Day (November 2, honoring adults). [1, 2]
- Global Recognition: UNESCO recognized Mexico's indigenous festivity dedicated to the dead as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2008. You can explore more historical resources through the Smithsonian Latino Center Day of the Dead Resources. [1, 2]
Key Traditions & Elements of Dias de los Muertos
- Ofrendas (Altars): Families build altars in their homes or at gravesites, decorated with photographs, candles, and the four elements: water (to quench the spirits' thirst), wind (papel picado banners), earth (food and pan de muerto), and fire (candles). [1, 2]
- Cempasúchil (Marigolds): Bright orange marigolds and their strong scent are believed to guide the returning spirits home. [1]
- Calaveras (Skulls): Sugar skulls, face painting, and skeletal artwork (calacas) symbolize that death is a natural part of the cycle of life rather than a morbid end. [1, 2]
- Food and Drink: Traditional favorites include pan de muerto (sweet bread), sugar skulls, dark chocolate, and atole. [1]
All Saints' Day is a Christian holiday celebrated to honor all saints and martyrs of the church—including both well-known figures and countless ordinary individuals who are believed to have attained heaven. [1, 2]
Key Details
- Date: Celebrated on November 1 in Western Christianity (Catholic, Anglican, and Lutheran churches), and on the first Sunday after Pentecost in Eastern Orthodox churches. [1, 2]
- Meaning: It recognizes that all believers share in the hope of eternal life, celebrating people who lived faithful lives through God's grace. [1, 2]
- Holy Day of Obligation: In the Catholic Church, it is a solemnity and a holy day of obligation, which requires followers to attend Mass. [1, 2]
- Scripture: Masses often feature the Beatitudes from the Gospel of Matthew, which emphasize humility, mercy, and a life centered on God. [1]
