SW News: A sea of Catholic devotees descended on the streets of the Peruvian capital of Lima on Saturday after a two-year gap to take part in the Senor de los Milagros (Lord of Miracles) procession carrying a replica of the icon of the Crucifixion. It is the first in a series of four processions in Downtown Lima and the first after the COVID curbs were lifted.

The streets had a purple hue as pilgrims came dressed in that color. The procession began after a ceremony at the Monastery of Las Nazarenas under the auspices of Bishop Guillermo Elias. The sacred image, which is also known as the Christ of Pachacamilla, was borne by 36 members of the Lord of Miracles Confraternity and it rested on a huge decorated platform.

As it slowly moved in procession through Emancipacion Avenue accompanied by tens of thousands of pilgrims in purple and members of the brotherhood in capes, clouds of incense smoke arose from thousands of traditional thuribles held by believers. To the accompaniment of brass bands, believers sang hymns dedicated to Christ Crucified. Many were in tears as the procession could not be held for two years because of the pandemic.

As the sacred image slowly made its way through the avenue, believers assembled on balconies and rooftops of buildings on either side applauded and paid floral tributes. Religious slogans such as “Thank you, Lord” and “Long Live Lord of Miracles” could be heard from the crowd of believers. Many had assembled to give thanks to Christ for protecting their families during the COVID onslaught. The next round of processions will take place on October 18, 19, 28 and November 1.

Lord of the Miracles

The original image is a mural depicting the crucifixion of Jesus and it dates back to the 17th century. Believers say it is miraculous as the mural remained intact in spite of several earthquakes that rocked Lima over the centuries. Today, the wall containing the mural is enclosed in the monastery church. One of the most venerated images in the country, the Lord of the Miracles invites people from all sections of society when it is taken out in procession.