Local Caretakers Devoted to Church Statues During Holy Week Processions
Religious processions, particularly those showcasing images depicting the life of Christ, are considered a form of “prayer in motion” by the Diocese of Kalibo. In a recent document titled “Directives on Holy Week Processions,” the diocese emphasized the importance of these traditions in reminding the faithful of the sacrifice and love of Jesus Christ.
Camareros or santeros, individuals responsible for caring for these sacred images, take their duties seriously. They view their role as a way to strengthen and renew the faith of the community. Jonathan Mercado from Malolos, Bulacan, expressed joy in helping people deepen their faith through their work as camareros.
For Mercado and his family, becoming caretakers of sacred images was a childhood dream reignited by a visit to an exhibit. They now oversee the El Descendimiento, a collection of images depicting Christ’s descent from the cross. Despite the financial commitment and physical labor involved, they find fulfillment in preserving the tradition.
The devotion of camareros goes beyond financial sacrifices. Emmanuel David, a santero from Betis in Guagua, Pampanga, views his role as a way to thank his patron saints for blessings received. For him and others, being a santero is a way to preserve the Catholic faith and pass it on to future generations.
According to the Diocese of Kalibo, many heirloom images used in Holy Week processions were historically owned by parishes but have since been entrusted to prominent families. This practice ensures the preservation of these sacred traditions and serves as a method of teaching the Catholic faith to the masses.
Most camareros gain access to these images through inheritance, purchase, or being entrusted by their religious network. Their dedication to preserving these traditions reflects a deep-rooted commitment to their faith and a desire to pass down this legacy to future generations.
