A Lecture About Semana Santa In San Miguel

By Author: Ethan Ham
Total Articles: 4
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Join Charlotte Bell author of, “Tears from the Crown of Thorns” for her annual lecture on Semana Santa. Holy Week, as it is known in English, is a time filled with happenings. There are nine major events and many more minor ones. With so many options it is difficult to know where to start. Most of the events are ancient and have special significance. But without information they are just strange occurrences. The Guide to Semana Santa is a lecture and slide show. Included with the ticket is a booklet with the times, locations and maps of the major events.

Charlotte 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 processions and other events all their lives. You will learn about San Miguel’s very own saint maker, the late Genero Almanza. In the 1800’s San Miguel was known as the “cradle” of saint makers because of its school for Santeros. You will find out what happened to the school and the struggle that ensued. She will tell you about the storeroom of angels for the Procession of Santo Enterro 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. The knowledge you will gain will increase your understanding and appreciation of Holy Week in San Miguel.

From Charlotte’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 and give you hints on how to deal with the sun. 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. Included in her talk will be a slide show featuring photos from her book. She will also be signing and selling copies of “Tears from the Crown of Thorns”. Join Charlotte at the Sindicato, Recreo 4, Tuesday March 26th at 4:00PM.

The author of this article is associated with Charlotte Bell Photography, run by Charlotte Bell in Austin, Texas. For more information log onto charlottebell.com.