The Holy Week in La Laguna officially commenced yesterday with the reading of the proclamation by journalist Roberto González. This event had been postponed last Thursday due to the severe wind alert issued by the General Emergency Department of the Canary Islands Government. The reading took place in the cathedral of La Laguna and was graced by the presence of the mayor, Luis Yeray Gutiérrez, the president of the Board of Brotherhoods, Juan Antonio Pérez, and the Diocesan administrator, Antonio Pérez Morales, alongside numerous members of the local council and representatives from various civil organisations.
The announcer was introduced by journalist Juani Brito de León, and the event featured performances by the San Sebastián de Tejina music band and the La Orotava polyphony choir.
In his proclamation, Roberto González shared memories and personal experiences related to the Holy Week Lagunera, along with some historical insights. He began by expressing gratitude to the Board of Brotherhoods and the Nivarian diocese “for trusting me with this significant role,” although he admitted feeling “overwhelmed” by the responsibility. “To announce the Holy Week, which embodies both roots and tradition in this city, is a tremendous honour for me, all the more so in this temple,” he remarked, noting that it was in this cathedral where he made his first communion while sharing anecdotes about the rehearsals.
The journalist described La Laguna as the setting for Holy Week, asserting that, “like the great historical cities, La Laguna, even before being recognised as such, possessed the essence of an ancient city, which had fortunately withstood the developmental pressures of the sixties that prompted many cities to abandon that essence […] The city resisted that assault and realised its treasure lay in that rich tapestry of a vibrant and lived-in city […]”
“La Laguna,” he continued, “is Ramos’s Sunday […]. The mist that accompanies the steps of the dawn procession, the muffled echo of the silent procession, the poignant stillness of the streets after the rain, the views of the lagoon houses harmoniously blending with the solemnity of the brotherhoods that congregate during the grand procession.”
Roberto González recalled some childhood memories associated with Holy Week and the Nava La Salle school, where he studied. The brotherhood there is that of the Nazarene and Our Lady of Solitude. He shared historical points, including details about the fire at the former church of San Agustín in 1964, which affected several images, notably that of the Nazarene currently under procession.
He also reminisced about obtaining his “first brotherhood habit.” “Without a capirote and my face uncovered, I took part in my first procession as a Monaguillo. Everything transpired as they had described, and by the afternoon, I met my friends for a snack and a glass of Sanson wine, courtesy of Brother Ramón,” he recalled.
Along with additional moments and stories from subsequent Holy Weeks, he noted how “time passed and, for reasons unknown, I drifted away from these celebrations […]. Yet, a significant life change, the birth of my children, brought me back […] I discovered a new way to experience these moments intensely, even as a member of the brotherhood of the Nazarene, and I cherished the Holy Week in my city.” He expressed a particular fondness for the early morning procession, providing some historical context and highlighting the connection between the Christ of the Lagoon and the current Campaign Artillery Regiment No. 93 of Tenerife.
During his proclamation, he appreciated the efforts of the Brotherhoods, which, “after five centuries and countless challenges, continue their devoted work beyond Holy Week.” He also acknowledged the contributions of all individuals dedicated to serving the community, not just during Holy Week, including catechists, and offered a “special remembrance” for the emeritus bishop, as well as a nod to the newly elected bishop.
The journalist concluded by discussing the challenges and transformations occurring globally that “create uncertainty.” “I can find no better response to these swift challenges than to contemplate what is right and wrong. I believe the profound reflection prompted by Holy Week presents us with an opportunity to seek answers. I hope we remember the passion of Christ during these days serves as a means to overcome fear,” he concluded.
