Puebla, Mexico – On April 18, 2025, the Good Friday Procession in Puebla marked a significant milestone by gathering over 180,000 participants. This vibrant display of faith was broadcast live by “HR 1090 AM” and “5R Noticias,” bringing the event into the homes of many.
The 38th edition of the procession commenced at noon from the atrium of the Cathedral of Puebla, led by Archbishop Víctor Sánchez Espinosa, alongside auxiliary bishops Tomás López Durán and Francisco Javier Martínez Castillo. The route of the procession encompassed several key locations in the city, including Avenida 2 Oriente, 5 de Mayo, 4 Poniente, 16 de Septiembre, Avenida Reforma, 11 Norte, 2 Norte, and 4 Oriente, culminating at “El Gallito” before returning to the cathedral.
Central to the procession were seven revered religious images, each significant for their historical and spiritual importance. These included Jesús Nazareno from the parish of San José, the Señor de las Maravillas from the temple of Santa Mónica, Nuestro Padre Jesús de Analco, Nuestra Señora de la Soledad from the parish of the Sagrario, Nuestra Señora de los Dolores from the temple of Carmen, the Santo Niño Doctor, and the Virgen de los Dolores from the Brotherhood of Porteadores de Analco.
The event was meticulously organized by the Archdiocese of Puebla in collaboration with UPAEP, the City Council, and various Catholic groups. Over 2,000 volunteers supported the event, while a security operation involving 4,000 personnel, including civil protection, firefighters, and the Red Cross, ensured the safety of all attendees. Remarkably, the procession transpired without any incidents, showcasing the effectiveness of the planning and coordination.
This longstanding tradition, rooted in Franciscan evangelization and revitalized in 1992, is a cornerstone of Puebla's cultural heritage. The various brotherhoods, such as that of the Santo Niño Doctor and the Nazarenos, infused the atmosphere with devotion, commemorating the Passion, Death, and Resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Meanwhile, the National Electoral Institute (INE) reported receiving 136,459 petitions from citizens and organizations wishing to participate as observers in the upcoming judicial election as of April 10. However, 24,261 of these requests were disqualified due to detected connections with political parties or social programs, which are prohibited by law for this role.
From the total applications, the vast majority—136,290—were submitted individually, while 169 came from members of seven civil associations. As of now, the INE has approved 25,546 registrations, with 15,567 belonging to women, 9,974 to men, and five to non-binary individuals. Among the accredited observers, 3,436 are aged between 21 and 25 years old. The entities with the highest number of requests include the State of Mexico (8,932), Michoacán (8,280), and Tamaulipas (8,074). The INE emphasized that the deadline for registering as an electoral observer is May 7 and urged compliance with legal requirements to enhance the transparency of the electoral process.
In addition to the events in Puebla, Tehuacán hosted a poignant representation of the Passion of Christ, which took place on the same day. Over 150 participants reenacted this significant religious event, culminating in the crucifixion scene at the iconic meseta del Riego. Hundreds of faithful gathered to witness this moving portrayal, which not only underscores the importance of tradition but also fosters community unity.
The representation featured participants dressed in period costumes, having rehearsed for weeks to accurately depict the biblical passages that recount the final moments of Jesus Christ. For many attendees, this event transcends mere tradition; it embodies deep spirituality and a sense of community.
Holy Week, which began on April 13 with Palm Sunday, is a crucial time for reflection for Christians, culminating in Easter Sunday on April 20. Good Friday, celebrated on April 18, is particularly significant as it commemorates the Passion, crucifixion, and death of Jesus Christ. It is a day marked by solemnity and reflection, where the faithful remember Christ's sacrifice for humanity's redemption.
On this day, various liturgical acts are held, including the Liturgy of the Word, which involves meditating on the truths of Christ's suffering and reading the Passion narrative. Notably, no Mass is celebrated on Good Friday, making it unique within the liturgical calendar. Instead, the faithful partake in the Adoration of the Cross, a significant act of reverence during evening services.
In many regions of Mexico, including Iztapalapa, Good Friday is observed with a blend of cultural and religious traditions. The Stations of the Cross, or Viacrucis, are common, recreating the events leading to Jesus' crucifixion. Participants often don costumes that evoke the biblical era, and the performances take place in settings designed to replicate ancient Jerusalem.
Another key aspect of Good Friday observances includes fasting and abstinence, which serve as acts of penance and solidarity with Christ's suffering. In Iztapalapa, the celebrations draw thousands of devotees and visitors, highlighting the cultural and spiritual significance of this observance.
As families gather during this time, many also take the opportunity to travel or spend time together, blending religious observance with cultural practices. Social media has also seen an influx of creative expressions around this time, with users sharing memes and reflections related to the holiday.
In summary, the events of Good Friday in Puebla and across Mexico reflect a rich tapestry of faith, culture, and community spirit. With the successful execution of large-scale processions and the ongoing preparations for electoral participation, the spirit of collaboration and devotion remains strong within these communities.
