Benque Viejo del Carmen commemorates Good Friday with solemn traditions

Posted: Friday, April 18, 2025. 12:57 pm CST.

Live Stations of the Cross – Photo Credit: Guadalupe Media Live Stream Screenshot

By Rubén Morales Iglesias: Belize’s westernmost town, Benque Viejo del Carmen is immersed in the solemn observances of Good Friday, a day of fasting, abstinence, prayer, and mourning as parishioners and visitors gather to reflect on the Passion of Christ. The commemoration is part of a weeklong series of religious events in the town, where Holy Week is widely observed through deep-rooted traditions.

The day’s events began early with the dramatization of the Stations of the Cross, commencing at 10:00 am. The reenactment, a moving portrayal of Jesus Christ’s final journey, culminates with the Crucifixion and His passing.

Later in the afternoon, at 3:00 pm, Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church on Church Street will host the Divine Mercy Novena alongside the Celebration of The Passion of Christ. This service is divided into three parts: The Passion of Our Lord Jesus Christ and Universal Prayers, The Veneration of the Cross, and Holy Communion, bringing together worshippers in deep spiritual reflection.

As the sun sets, the Holy Burial Procession (Solemne Procesión de Santo Entierro) will begin at 5:00 pm, led by the Benque Viejo Marching Band. The solemn march will weave through the town’s main streets, beautifully adorned with vibrant sawdust carpets.

Live Stations of the Cross – Photo Credit: Benque House of Culture Live Stream Screenshot

These colorful sawdust tapestries, carefully crafted by parishioners, hold great cultural significance. Though they are ephemeral—dissolving beneath the steps of procession participants—they represent a cherished tradition embraced by many Benqueños under the guidance of the Benque House of Culture and other local organizations.

A similar procession will also take place in San José Succotz, where participants will gather at 5:00 pm to pay their respects and commemorate the sacred day.

Good Friday in Benque Viejo del Carmen remains a profound tradition, blending faith, devotion, and cultural artistry in a moving tribute to Christ’s sacrifice, reinforcing the town’s commitment to preserving its rich Holy Week customs.

Benqueños working on their sawdust carpets earlier on Good Friday – Photo Credit: Benque House of Culture

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