11/28/2025
As November comes to a close and the Mt. Shasta Goddess Temple Goddess Mandala turns, we would like to take a moment to honor and thank Santa Muerte.
We reflect on a figure born from the intersection of ancient Aztec belief and Spanish colonial influence—a powerful folk saint who offers comfort, protection, and justice to society’s most marginalized. Rooted in the traditions of Mictecacihuatl, the Aztec queen of the underworld, and La Parca, the Spanish Grim Reaperess, Santa Muerte embodies death not as an end, but as a constant companion in life’s harshest realities. In places like Tepito, where poverty, violence, and desperation are daily struggles, she is embraced by those often forgotten—sex workers, addicts, the sick, the incarcerated, the LGBTQ community, and the poor—as a fierce, impartial protector who turns no one away. Despite rejection from the Catholic Church, her devotees find in her a source of miracles, strength, and unflinching presence. Santa Muerte teaches that death is not the enemy—it is the great equalizer, a force of mercy, retribution, and ultimately, peace.
In thanks, we offer this Praise for Santa Muerte from an Unknown Author.
Madre mia Santa Muerte
Ante las dificultades de la vida, ayĂşdame
En mis desaciertos, ilumina me
En mis soledades, acompañe me
En los horas difĂciles, fortalece me
En mas tentaciones, defiende me
En las p***s y tristezas, consĂşela me
Con inmenso poder, protégeme
Con tu infinito amor, amame
Con tu gran bondad, mirame,
Con tu mano providente, guĂame
Asi sea por siempre
Amen
How has Santa Muerte touched your life this month? Tell us about it in the comments.
Want to learn more about our Temple Mandala Goddesses? Become a member of the Mt. Shasta Goddess Temple at mtshastagoddesstemple.com.
Image: Santa Muerte with Red Roses by Alice White Milano