2020 is surely a different year for Filipinos. The Coronavirus problem in the country remains. Now that we are already in the last quarter of the year, it looks like the usual celebrations during this season will also be bound by quarantine protocols. The first one to miss this season is the celebration of Undas.
In the Philippines, all souls day and all saints day are two important occasions that bring people together. However, as restrictions are in place and the closure of cemeteries during those holidays have already been announced, undas celebrations this 2020 will definitely be not the usual.
If you have no plans yet on how you can cope with the changes, here are some tips that will guide you in celebrating undas in the Philippines at the height of a pandemic.
5 Ways to Celebrate Undas in the Philippines this 2020
1. Reschedule Your Cemetery Visit
Traditionally, people flock cemeteries from October 31 to November 2. But since that won’t be possible this year, you need to adjust your cemetery visit. With the closures of cemeteries, you can set your visit on or after the holidays. Two weeks before or after all souls day would be ideal. This is to make sure that the flow of people has already subsided on the day of your visit.
2. Order Flowers Early
One of the staples of undas celebration in the Philippines is flowers. Most Filipinos visit their dearly departed loved ones with flowers to offer. Keep in mind that this is a busy time of the year for flower shops in the Philippines. Make sure to place your order ahead of time so you can still choose from a wider range of options. Although there are flower stands near cemeteries, it would probably a smarter option to bring a bouquet. Most likely, there will be lots of people in those stores and you wouldn’t want your safety to be compromised.
3. Connect with Relatives and Loved Ones Online
Does your cemetery visit during undas usually end up as a mini-reunion? While gatherings are prohibited this year, you can still connect with them. Schedule a group call and invite your relatives to join. You may not be physically present for the usual undas celebration, but you can still catch up with them online.
4. Celebrate at Home
Undas in the Philippines usually come with foods for sharing. Although these are usually taken to the cemetery where the “celebration” takes place, this time it’s better to leave them at home. Protocols may prevent you from bringing unnecessary items in the cemetery. It is better to make gatherings more intimate this year. Celebrate with your closest kins and spend a quiet time at home to remember a family member who has already departed.
5. Offer Solemn Prayers
The power of prayers cannot be underestimated. There might be changes on the way you will celebrate undas but prayers remain an essential part of it. Don’t forget to offer a prayer for the souls of your departed loved ones. Whether you’re at home, in the church or in the cemetery, this is one offering that puts greater meaning to the celebration of all souls day.
ALSO READ: 20 Essential Tips for a Safe and Stress-free Undas
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