On April 25, 2025, the celebration of San Marcos Evangelista, the patron saint of Tuxtla, took center stage in a vibrant display of cultural and religious significance. This day is not just a religious observance but a fusion of indigenous Zoque traditions and the cultural heritage inherited from the Spanish, showcasing the rich tapestry of life in the region.
The festivities began early in the morning, with the traditional "Mañanitas" sung at 6 AM, followed by the coronation of San Marcos. A mass was held at 7 AM, marking the official start of the day’s celebrations. However, the lead-up to this day had been filled with various activities over the past week, including religious, cultural, and even sporting events, all honoring one of the four evangelists.
One of the highlights of the day is the "ensarta de flor de mayo," a ceremony rooted in Zoque heritage. Around 2 PM, community members gather to create elaborate floral arrangements known as "ensartas" and "joyonaqué," which consist of a variety of flowers, leaves, and stems. This act is not only a show of devotion to San Marcos but also a celebration of community spirit, as people of all ages come together to participate. Women often wear beautifully embroidered blouses and traditional attire, while men contribute to the creation of these floral tributes.
The "ensarta" serves as a tribute to the cultural and spiritual wealth of the region, reminding participants of the importance of preserving their cherished traditions. Following this ceremony, the afternoon is filled with performances from marimbas, tunas, student choirs, and folk ballets, ensuring that the festivities continue with joy and celebration.
While the focus remains on San Marcos, the event transcends religious boundaries, inviting the entire community to partake in the festivities. It has become a celebration of identity for the people of Tuxtla, aiming to revive the devotion and faith of the community after years of modernization and changing ideologies that have threatened to erase some traditions. This year, the celebrations spanned eight days, featuring various cultural, artistic, and gastronomic activities around the cathedral, including musical recitals, theater, folk dances, local artist performances, and photography exhibitions.
In a significant development, the day also marks the official assumption of José Francisco González González as the new Archbishop of Tuxtla, following the passing of Monseñor Fabio Martínez Castilla in November 2023. González's appointment comes just months before the expected death of Pope Francis, adding a layer of historical significance to the day. The welcoming ceremony for González began at 9 AM at the Santa Cruz Terán parish, followed by a procession through the streets, a meeting with indigenous communities at the Parque de la Marimba, and a profession of faith at the Metropolitan Cathedral of San Marcos.
José Francisco González, born on March 17, 1966, in Yahualica de González Gallo, Jalisco, brings a wealth of experience to his new role. He was ordained as a deacon on December 24, 1994, by Cardinal Juan Sandoval Íñiguez and has since held various positions within the Church, including serving as the auxiliary bishop of Guadalajara and later as the bishop of Campeche. His extensive academic background includes degrees in Canon Law and Biblical Theology from prestigious institutions in Rome.
As the third archbishop in the history of the Archdiocese of Tuxtla Gutiérrez, González's leadership promises to guide the community through a period of renewal and revitalization. His formal installation will be celebrated with a Eucharistic ceremony at the Major Seminary of Santa María de Guadalupe, solidifying his commitment to his new role.
April 25 also commemorates the martyrdom of San Marcos, who died in Alexandria around the year 68 AD. Known as the author of the second canonical Gospel, San Marcos is celebrated not only for his writings but also for his significant contributions to the early Christian community. His legacy as the patron saint of lawyers, notaries, and stained glass artists, as well as his connections to Venice and Egypt, further enrich his story.
San Marcos Evangelista, also known as Juan Marcos, played a crucial role in the spread of Christianity in the first century. Although he was not one of the original twelve apostles, he was closely associated with them, serving as a disciple and interpreter. Born into a wealthy Jewish family in Jerusalem, he is believed to have traveled with San Pablo and his cousin Bernabé on their first missionary journey, although he left them partway through, leading to tensions that were later resolved.
After his time with San Pedro, the first pope, Marcos is said to have traveled to Alexandria, where he founded one of the earliest Christian communities in Africa and became its first bishop. His martyrdom in that city solidified his status as a saint, and his relics were later moved to Venice, where he is venerated as the city's patron saint. The winged lion, a symbol of San Marcos, represents his legacy and is prominently featured in Venice's emblem and basilica.
In the broader context, the Catholic Church, with over 1.36 billion members worldwide, continues to celebrate the lives of saints like San Marcos, who exemplify faith and dedication. The Americas boast the largest population of Catholics, with nearly half of the global total, while regions like Asia and Africa have seen significant growth in Catholicism. In contrast, European numbers have declined in recent years, highlighting the shifting dynamics of religious adherence across the globe.
As the celebrations of San Marcos Evangelista unfold in Tuxtla, they serve as a reminder of the enduring nature of faith, community, and cultural heritage, weaving together the past and present in a vibrant tapestry of life.
