On Sunday afternoon, the Church of San Pedro Apóstol in Güímar served as the venue for the announcement of the Descent of El Socorro, presented by the president of the Cabildo of Tenerife, Rosa Dávila. This large-scale gathering attracted thousands of attendees throughout the weekend who were eager to partake in this significant event. The Descent and Pilgrimage of El Socorro, along with the corresponding Ascent, serve as a focal point of tradition and reverence for the Honourary and Perpetual Mayor of Güímar. The journey commences at the Iglesia Matriz de San Pedro Apóstol and leads to the hermitage of El Socorro, via the Camino del Socorro, a route recognised as a Site of Cultural Interest with the classification of Historical Site.
During the event, the promotional poster for the festivity was unveiled, created by Alba Rosa Díaz. The artist drew inspiration from the earliest artistic representation of the moment when the Mencey Acaymo sought assistance.
Dávila was joined by the Bishop of Tenerife, Bernardo Álvarez Afonso, and the mayor of Güímar, Gustavo Pérez. The inaugural festivities commenced with a performance by the folklore group Amigos del Arte de Güímar, one of the longest-standing musical institutions in Tenerife, whose origins trace back to at least 1853.
Prior to handing over the microphone to the president, they emphasised the significance of the herald’s role as the leader of the Cabildo de Tenerife, highlighting her dedication to public service and her strong connection to the Güímar community. Following the reading of the proclamation, Rosa Dávila remarked, “I have roots in Güímar, and these festivities hold a special meaning for me.”
A SPEECH BRIMMING WITH EMOTION
Rosa Dávila’s address, replete with emotion and personal anecdotes, resonated profoundly with the audience. The president, visibly touched, conveyed her gratitude: “When Domingo proposed that I serve as the town crier, my heart sank. It is a tremendous responsibility to the people of Güímar, my family, and myself.” Dávila nostalgically recounted her childhood in Güímar, asserting that “what one cherishes in childhood remains forever in the heart; our connections to that place are forged by roots stronger than steel.”
In her speech, she underscored the significance of faith and tradition in her life and that of all Güímar residents: “Güímar and El Socorro are places filled with magic, history, tradition, and faith. Faith is an extraordinary, intangible force that can unite thousands of people in a shared sentiment.” She further highlighted how this proclamation enabled her to reconnect with her past, describing it as “the perfect opportunity to reminisce about many past experiences with my father.”
HER GÜÍMAR CONNECTIONS
Dávila reminisced about many influential figures from Güímar, with whom she has shared deep bonds throughout her life, including Pedro Millán, Rafael Yanes, and Modesto Campo… “all of them, simple, kind, genuine individuals—essentially, Güímareros,” she stated.
The president took a moment, visibly emotional, to honour her father, affectionately known as “Toto,” thanking him for instilling in her fundamental values like perseverance and bravery.
Rosa Dávila’s address was not merely a personal exploration of her roots but also a contemplation of the community’s future. In her closing remarks, she emphasised the necessity of moving forward with courage towards new opportunities.
In conclusion, she received a memento from the parish: a medallion symbolising the Virgin of El Socorro, crafted by Javier Eloy Campos. She was also presented with a Guanche bucio, a gift bestowed by the Güímar Town Hall.
