|
by Joseph Harmes. Reprinted with permission. www.thebestofsanmigueldeallende.com Sunday, April 2, two Sundays before Easter: A procession departs the Santuario at Atotonilco at midnight bearing the image of El Señor de la Columna (Lord of the Column), a life-size statue of Jesus Christ leaning against a column, his back bloodied, his ribs laid open from severe flagellation. The kiss of Judas shows on his cheek. He is dressed in a purple loincloth and covered by hundreds of scarves provided by women in the area. The cortege often halts for prayer and hymns; a Mass is said before arriving at El Templo de San Juan de Dios around dawn to deafening church bells and fireworks. The scarves are removed and safe-guarded for funerals and other religious ceremonies later in the year. Tuesday, April 4, Tuesday before Holy Week: El Día del Divino Preso (Day of the Divine Prisoner) recalls an ancient religious day when prisoners (in San Miguel de Allende at the state prison, El Centro de Readaptación Social, or CERESO) welcome family, attend Mass and enjoy a comida. Friday, April 7, Friday before Holy Week: Viernes de Dolores. The last Friday of Lent honors Nuestra Señora de los Dolores (Our Lady of Sorrows) with special Masses (at El Oratorio de San Felipe Neri and La Iglesia de San Francisco), prayers and the erection of incendios (home altars). In San Miguel de Allende, the day also is known as Friday of the altars, paying homage to the anguish of the Virgin Mary. The four dozen fountains in town are cleaned and decorated with flowers (lilies and chamomile), purple and white crepe paper and chains of fruit, especially oranges. Beautiful home altars-some simple, others elaborate-are constructed around an image of La Virgen de los Dolores. Passersby are invited to inspect them that night and welcomed with small gifts of candy, nuts, fruit and drink. |