Segundo Domingo de Cuaresma

Today's Cuaresma procession didn't come anywhere near our casita today, so we had to go find it. It was a much smaller procession than last Sundays, but unique in its own way.

Like the last procession, it begins with a Roman Legionary band.

Next come those guys in the purple robes. They're the ones who carry the large processional barges.

As I've pointed out before, the guys in the monk-looking outfits are middle management.

Others have equally important roles to play, such as carrying the diaper bag.

Never too young to learn the ropes.

This young fellow was having trouble with his censer. A moment ago it was engulfed in flames.

The first processional barge soon arrives.

It's hard work being a Roman Legionnaire, marching all day, having to eat on the run. You have to grab a bite when you can. (You may have to enlarge).

This processional barge starts at the beginning - the birth of Jesus.

As always during Cuaresma, a key feature is Jesus carrying his cross.

It's hard enough carrying the barge, but having to carry your assistant is almost too much, especially when his feat don't touch the ground.

As always, the band follows the processional barge. This group had just finished playing when they got to me.

The second processional barge, this one carried by women, comes down the street.

I think the right front corner needs some help.

The small processional barges with the individual saints follow immediately behind.

There's always at least two.

This band was playing. I'm not sure that they were paying any attention to their conductor, but he was having a fine time swinging his baton and pretending to be leading the band.

Following the second band, the clean-up crew is ready to go to work. But there didn't seem to be much work for them. It had threatened to rain all day, so perhaps there weren't as many alfombras made today.

 If there is anything to clean up, you've got to have somewhere to put it.

Today's procession was much smaller than last Sunday's, but just as interesting. The remainder of Cuaresma will continue like this, with perhaps two processions taking place on some Sundays. During Semana Santa, however, there will be processions all over the place. Thank goodness that my NGO closes for Semana Santa, like most of Guatemala.