Santa María Magdalena

The particular way the Zoque people celebrate Saint Mary Magdalene, Patron Saint of the community of Nuevo Francisco León, municipality of Ocosingo, Chiapas, Mexico, is fully reclaimed in this film bearing her name. During the days prior to July 22, the date of her commemoration, cultural activities and popular sports are held among young people from neighbouring communities. The most devout congregate in a parade accompanying the Alférez and/or Mayordomo officials from their homes to the sanctuary.  With the help of older people, rustic drums and chirimia woodwind instruments, traditional musicians play their finest traditional sounds. At the same time, the strident sound of the trumpets and trombones of a small band of wind musicians from the community is a constant presence.

The high point of the Saint Mary Magdalene celebration is when the offices of Alférez and Mayordomos are transferred in the middle of the sanctuary, to pass on the care of the Patroness until the following year, when the same ceremony will once again take place, in the endless cycle of celebration and transfer of roles.