Writer, Cultural Promoter, and Activist David Ruiz Talks About Holy Week in Benque
by Carolyn Lee Apr 13, 2022
Each Easter, we acknowledge the crucifixion and celebrate the resurrection of Jesus. Many of us attend religious and cultural events that highlight the significance of what Easter means to us. In Benque, Stations of the Cross has been in place since 1992.
We caught up with Mr David Nicolas Ruiz, who has worked in the liturgical renewal of Holy Week in Benque Viejo for over 25 years.
Mr Ruiz is an educator, administrator, and the current dean at John Paul II Junior College in Benque Viejo del Carmen. Some of the other hats he wears include being a published writer, cultural promoter, and activist. Mr Ruiz gives us some insight into Holy Week activities in Benque.
How do people in Benque prepare for Stations of the Cross?
The drama of the Passion of Christ (Stations of the Cross) has been in place since 1992. It was interrupted in 2020 and 2021 by the pandemic. A cast of approximately 30 people begins rehearsals months in advance. Since the cast has a small turnover, it has been easier to perform. Over the years, we’ve received quality costumes as well.
What are some of the other Holy Week activities in Benque?
Public acts of devotion mainly characterise Holy Week. A procession takes place on Palm Sunday, re-enacting the triumphant entry of Jesus into Jerusalem. The march of silence in honour of Our Lady of Sorrows is on Monday and El Encuentro is on Tuesday. The washing of the feet ritual is on Holy Thursday with the vigil in honour of the Blessed Sacrament. On Good Friday, we have the procession of Santo Entierro or the burial of Jesus, with the culmination of the Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday.
Do these activities involve traditional foods or speeches?
A highlight of the week is the creation of colourful sawdust tapestries on the town’s streets for the procession of Santo Entierro on Good Friday. On this day, local entrepreneurs display and sell the Maya-Mestizo cuisine characteristic of Lent.
For more information on Holy Week activities in Benque, visit the Benque House of Culture (NICH) Facebook page, Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish, or Benque Viejo Town Council. We thank Mr Ruiz for sharing with us. Have a blessed Easter, everyone!
*Photos courtesy of Emil Hernandez, Samantha Nicole Castellanos, Ms Angela USA, and Nalleli Yacab.