The Lloyd's in...

Semana Santa in Antigua, Guatemala

Semana Santa, also known as Holy Week, is celebrated the week before Easter.  We, along with a group of senior missionaries, traveled to Antigua (the old world capital and Catholic strong hold of Guatemala) to witness this fascinating event. It is probably the biggest holiday of the year with similar processions and traditions in various towns and cities throughout the country.

Easter is a very interesting time in Guatemala. You will not see one mention of Easter Bunnies or Easter Egg Hunts. For Guatemalans, Semana Santa is a pilgrimage of the Crucifixion of Christ. Theyse people are very reverent and solemnly dedicated to the traditions of this holiday.  A prosession goes down every street in Antigua in reverent reminder of the Crucifixion of Christ. It is quite a privilege to be a 'cucuruchos' and help carry the 'andas' (floats). Even children get involved.

The most extraordinary part of Semana Santa is the "Alfrombras" or carpets. As you look on the cobblestone streets you see 'carpets' all along the middle of the road. They are not really carpets but intricate designs made of plants, flowers, sawdust, fruits, vegetables, and other materials. They are truly a work of art.  They are exquisite! 

And, this is what it looks like after the procession has gone by...

Although Semana Santa was intriguing and beautiful, we could not help but think of the real meaning of Easter. Easter is 'a new beginning'...a 'rebirth'. Easter is the Resurrection of Christ not the Crucifixion. We are so grateful for the Atonement of the Savior, His Sacrifice...His Gift. As we use the Atonement daily, we too can have a 'new beginning' or a 'rebirth' in our lives and prepare ourselves some day to return to our heavenly home.