By Charlotte Bell
Join Charlotte Bell for her upcoming annual lecture on Semana Santa, Holy Week. Hundreds of visitors have attended her talk/slide show to learn about the ancient origins and the significance of these historic events. Bell is the author of “Tears from the Crown of Thorns,” the most extensive book on Holy Week in San Miguel. The lecture is based on the information from her book.
She spent years taking photographs and collecting information for her book. Much of the lore came from interviews with local residents who have participated in the observances of Semana Santa all their lives. You will learn about San Miguel’s very own saint maker, the late Genero Almanza. In the 1800s San Miguel was known as the “cradle” of saint makers because of its school for Santeros. She will tell you about the storeroom of angels for the Procession of Santo Entierro on Good Friday. You will see behind the scenes as local residents prepare for the processions and decorate the churches. You will learn about Padre Felipe Neri de Alfaro, 1709-1776, creator of Atotonilco who would walk barefoot seven miles into San Miguel carrying a heavy cross. Various religious statues have an ancient history such as the figure of Ecce Homo who is over 300 years old. You will learn how he is known as the rainmaker as he travels from church to church for nine months of the year to bring on the rains. She will also address the predominance of images of suffering and how they are teachers that bring compassion into our lives. The knowledge you will gain will increase your understanding and appreciation of Holy Week in San Miguel.
From Bell’s extensive research, she has created a guide to the events of Semana Santa. You will leave her talk with timetables and maps on the “what,” “where,” and “when” so you can get the most out of this special time in San Miguel. She’ll show you the best place to stand for processions. For photographers, she’ll assist you in finding the ultimate spots for taking great photographs and explain procession etiquette.
Get the facts so you can get the most out of this extraordinary time in San Miguel. She will also be signing and selling copies of “Tears from the Crown of Thorns.”
Join Bell at the El Sindicato on Recreo 4, Friday, March 29, from 2:30-3:30pm. Cost for the lecture and booklet is 100 pesos.
Lecture
The Guide to Semana Santa
Learning the Significance of Holy Week in San Miguel
Fri., Mar. 29, 2:30pm
El Sindicato
Recreo 4
100 pesos lecture and booklet
