Melchor GarcíaApril 19

It used to be during Holy Week that women only wore black shawls and black skirts (white bordered with dark blue). During that week they never wore accessories (earrings, etc.).

They remain celibate Wednesday, Thursday, and Good Friday. On Good Friday one shouldn’t eat meat or wash.

Leonardo Ronquillo

On Good Friday one shouldn’t eat anything that contains blood. If somebody violates the rule of celibacy they may die—killed by a shaman in one or two months. A shaman lights his candles every Friday. Only a senior shaman is able to protect a man from the actions of another who lights the candles.

Silvestre Cuevas

On Good Friday one can splash a little water on the body to wash, but one shouldn’t use soap, since it is made from meat.

Melchor GarcíaApril 21

The ceremonies for Holy Week began in San Martín only three years ago. A man who lived in Ixcatlán came to San Martín and stayed for a year. He taught the people. This was complemented by studying books.

Silvestre CuevasMay 10

There were always masks in San Martín during Holy Week.