YAQUI LENTEN CELEBRATION
07 April 2017 | Yaqui Valley, Sonora, Mexico
Admiral Donna Lou
A fantastic opportunity open up to us! We could be part of a small group of "outsiders" to witness & take part in the Yaquis Lenten celebration deep in the heart of the Yaqui Valley. To do so we had to agree not to bring cameras and dress traditionally for the Admiral that met covering her covering her head with a shawl & wearing a skirt or long pants, the Captain had to leave his shorts and tee's aboard Magic Carpet and wear long pants and a dress shirt. This unique experience started with the discovery of the cultural heritage and traditions of this indigenous group. They still maintain their cultural, political and social structure. Following an intense day with Yaqui elders using an English translator, we were given an incite to the past & present through museum tours, crafts, archaeology interest & village walks. As dusk neared the excitement of observing the gathering and preparations for the celebration was Magical! The Yaquis gathered in the Village Church square. Arriving on foot from all directions dressed in unique one of a kind traditional clothing. The pageant began lead by the "pilot" on a big Black Horse followed by hundreds including us. The Medicine Lady & the Chief & elders, children dressed as angles, some locals dressed representing evil others representing good (we were part of the good guys). Singles women with flowers in their hair, spoken for singles women covered their faces, some men wear mask and others were open faced. This Catholic Lenten Celebration walked the Stations of the Cross through the village. Women in one group Men in another, Men took turns carrying a cross & women taking turns carrying statues of Mary the Blessed Mother & I think the other was Mary Magdalene. At each station (14) we stopped and prayed, and the evil ones tried to distract us. We were told they believe in God Jesus Christ & keep their old gods the sun, moon & stars in there old traditional ways. The Church was lovely such a contrast from there simple village homes. We each had to ask permission in Yaqui before we could enter and were welcomed with a nod of the head. It was an honor to be part of this celebration a treasure we will cherish always. Our little glimpse into the old world traditions of these indigenous people.