Semana Santa aka "Every Day I’m Processioning"

Semana Santa (Holy Week) 2013 - Antigua, Guatemala

I do not own this video. All rights belong to the owner.

Antigua is world renowned for their Holy Week (Semana Santa) celebrations. And truly, this religious experience is one of a kind. Let’s begin with alfombras (carpets). It is an extremely important tradition in Antigua to create these outrageously beautiful alfombras on the cobblestone streets of this colonial village. The materials commonly used are pine needles, flowers, petals, colored sawdust, fruits, vegetables, candy, and then pretty much anything available to make these carpets bright, colorful, and intricate. See below for some of these beautiful arrangements. 

Huge alfombra in Iglesia San Francisco.

Aaron & a pretty alfombra.

Our host family's 1st alfombra, mariposas (butterflies).

Our host family's 2nd alfombra.

Next we move on to the processions. This is serious business. Each church/village leads a procession. Commonplace sights and sounds during these processions are men draped in purple robes, women draped in black and white with veils, incense, mournful sounding music, and grandiose floats depicting scenes of Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection. Also see below for pictures.

Carrying the cross of Jesus along with Him.

Even children carry floats! This is my host family's grandson in front, Manuel.

Now to tie the alfombras and processions together. Only the individuals carrying these heavy floats can step on the alfombras. This sacred action reminds me of the story when the Lord appeared to Moses and asked him to take of his shoes for “the ground you are standing on is holy.” If you could see the faces of these men and women carrying the floats you would get the idea of suffering for Christ. Draped in long robes. 80+ degree weather. Cobblestone streets. Carrying floats that weights hundreds, if not thousands, of pounds. Parading proudly through the streets the declare their faith and suffer as Christ did when he carried his own cross. It is a deeply moving and breathtaking sight. Check out some of the pictures and videos below, they truly do not do these celebrations justice.

Si Robertson spotted during Semana Santa. Hey! Duck Dynasty anyone?