Holy Week in La Laguna embodies tradition, history and sacred art, infused with the unique atmosphere created by the city’s streets and convents, which have been designated a World Heritage Site. This assertion comes from Juan Antonio Pérez, who embarks on another Holy Week as the president of the Board of Brotherhoods and Confraternities (JHC) of La Laguna, with the significant events officially commencing today on Palm Sunday. Juan Antonio Pérez describes this Holy Week as “vibrant” and notes the “generational continuity” within the traditions. “We cannot burden the younger generation; they are the future of the brotherhoods and confraternities,” he stresses. Juan Antonio Pérez, who holds a doctorate in Medicine from the University of La Laguna, has been at the helm of the JHC since January 2022 (having previously served from 2005 to 2009) and is nearing the final weeks of his term, which initiated the return of the processions after COVID restrictions and will culminate next month with the episcopal ordination and installation of the new bishop of the diocese of Nivarie Jubilee.
-How do you perceive this year’s Holy Week in La Laguna? Are you concerned about the weather?
“I often say that after the pandemic, everyone looks to the sky, asking for various things, but during these days, the brotherhoods also look to see what the weather will be like. Ultimately, that is beyond our control; it will be whatever God intends.”
-Palm Sunday marks the official start of the significant week of processions. How crucial is this day for La Laguna?
“We experience it with fervour and anticipation, as the major week of Holy Week commences. The day begins early as the first act of Palm Sunday involves the blessing of the palmitos, which is relocated to a church each year, and this year it will take place at the Conception. After the blessing, the procession proceeds to the cathedral, where the Bishop, the diocesan administrator for this year, presides over a Mass marking the start of Holy Week, celebrating Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, traditionally known as the Borriquita.”
-Are there any changes to the planned processions this year?
“Several processions will pass through the Water Street, but due to the works at Barranco de la Carnicería, this will not be possible, as the National Police requested the Town Council to keep it clear. After conducting an assessment, we decided not to use Water Street, which means that the early morning, the magna procession, and those on Saturday and Sunday will take a different route via Viana Street. Additionally, in the morning procession, the Christ will descend the alley of Deán Palahí to enter the convent of the Catalinas. Upon reaching Ascanio and Nieves, instead of entering via San Agustín, the route will continue to the Torre de la Concepción and down the alley of Bethlehem. Those are the most notable changes.”
-Does the programme include any new events?
“One of the highlights is that on the 25th, we will be hosting an Easter concert at the cathedral at 8:00 p.m., where the military band will perform alongside the Camerata Lacunensis choir, a collaboration that has never occurred before.”
-Which of the La Laguna processions do you believe has the most roots and affection among the local community?
“Traditionally, the morning procession, featuring the Christ of La Laguna, which departs at 4 a.m. and visits all the convents during its seven stops until arriving at the cathedral, has been cherished. Furthermore, another procession that attracts more attendees each year is the Silent Procession held on Good Friday afternoon. After the Magna procession, all the brotherhoods convene to accompany the Holy Bur. The lights are dimmed, music is absent, and silence prevails, amplified by the chilly air of La Laguna.”
-Do you consider La Laguna’s Holy Week to be the most significant in the Canary Islands?
“When discussing beloved traditions, each has its own merits, but I maintain a respectful stance. Holy Week is exceptional, and each city and town possesses its unique identity. La Laguna, with its profound traditions, boasts not only brotherhoods but also artistic representations and numerous years of heritage. Moreover, as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it is adorned with remarkable streets and convents.”
-What progress has been made towards declaring it a Cultural Asset of Interest (BIC)?
“This initiative began a few years back, with the Town Council and the Board of Brotherhoods supporting the move. A comprehensive historical study was initiated, involving historians and professors from the university. The necessary procedures were undertaken, and I believe it is currently in the evaluation phase. Our aim is to declare it an Intangible Cultural Heritage.”
-The Constitutional Court recognised last November the right for women to participate in the slavery of Christ. What is your view on this?
“As president, I respect the autonomy of each brotherhood and slavery. That said, my executive committee comprises nine individuals, four of whom are women. This is quite normal in contemporary society for the slavery of Christ and the Brotherhood of Blood.”
-As president of the JHC, have you communicated to the brotherhoods how they will respond to this ruling? Will women be seen in their procession this Holy Week?
“It seems unlikely for this Holy Week, as their statutes must first be amended, and I believe they are considering an appeal.”
-Regarding the youth, do you believe that Holy Week in La Laguna along with its brotherhoods and confraternities have secured generational continuity?
“I do see generational continuity. For instance, last year, the Brotherhood of Mercy welcomed 10 new young members. There have been fluctuations throughout history. Back in the late 70s and early 80s, we managed only one procession annually, which has contributed to attracting the youth.”
-What does this signify?
“Primarily, we are part of a society that continuously challenges us for various reasons, and the brotherhoods ultimately must return to their core social charitable missions, without neglecting our role within the church. It’s often said that young people are the future; however, they are our present reality, urging us forward. Their perspective is crucial, and we must not overlook them as they embody the future of the brotherhoods from a fresh viewpoint.”
-As president of the JHC, when does your term conclude? Would you be interested in continuing?
“I will finish in May, and I am unable to stand for election again.”
-What reflections do you have on this second term at the helm of the JHC?
“Despite occasional fatigue, we have never lost our enthusiasm. Our commitment is substantial and has primarily centered on social charitable work, which has been a fundamental pillar. In the aftermath of the pandemic, there was a renewed push towards reactivating the brotherhoods’ activities.”
-I imagine that was a significant moment …
“I started in January 2022. At that time, it was still uncertain whether Holy Week would take place, and I recall being asked about my main challenge, to which I replied that it was to ensure we could proceed. We went out wearing masks, collaborating with the town hall, and adjusting the processional routes while observing all the health measures imposed due to the pandemic. There was a collective eagerness to resume our activities on the streets.
-You will conclude your term with the episcopal ordination and canonical appointment of the new bishop of the diocese. How do you view this appointment?
“I believe he could be an excellent bishop; it is a commendable selection. He is a man for our times, a brother of the Nazarenes of Vegueta, and is exceptionally well-prepared, possessing proficiency in various languages.”
-In commemorating the end of your term with the jubilee year, are there any events planned for this celebration?
“On May 18, which falls on a Sunday, we will hold a general procession to celebrate the Jubilee of the Brotherhoods of the Diocese throughout Tenerife. We have extended invitations for participation and are still in the planning stages. This event is being organised by the Bishopric and the JHC. The procession will feature nine steps within the city, and we will have a vigil on the preceding Saturday evening.”
