MAZ: Shrines

Paul Newman was honored in several shrines as was Audrey Hepburn.

What’s on the Altar, and Why?
The picture of the deceased serves to help the soul’s departure from purgatory, if it resides there, or simply to honor the deceased.
Candles represent the element of fire, one of the four elements that should be present on an altar.
A glass of water is used for the soul to wet its lips, dry from the long journey from beyond the grave. Water is one of the four elements.
Fruits and nuts represent the earth element.
Paper flags (papel picado) represent the element of wind and help guide the soul to the altar.
Sugar skulls represent death, an inescapable part of life.
Liquor represents joyful events of the person’s life and encourages the soul to visit its family again.
Copal incense cleanses the surroundings of evil spirits, enabling the soul to enter the home or place without danger.
Different foods are placed on the altar so that the departed may delight in their aroma.
Flowers provide decoration and perfume so that when it is time for the souls to leave they will do so, content with having shared this moment with their relatives.