Lent is a time of reflection where the faithful prepare their souls and repent of their sins so they can fully experience Easter and draw closer to Jesus. This time is similar to the 40 days Jesus spent in the desert. As many priests say, Lent signifies change, a change made for God's sake.
Lent revolves around three purposes: repentance for sins, penance, and conversion. This means that people should go to confession to repair their souls and become better for God.
Lent precedes Holy Week and begins on Ash Wednesday. On this day, a special Mass is celebrated where the priest marks the foreheads of all those present with ashes. The purpose of this day is to remind everyone that material things are fleeting, for it is our goodness that God will judge.
What to do during Holy Week?
Holy Week is the perfect opportunity to take a break from obligations and rest. In Peru, there are many activities to enjoy during this time. Here's a short list to help you make the most of your free days during Holy Week.
● Visiting Seven Churches: This is a tradition practiced in many Peruvian cities. It usually takes place on Holy Thursday evening, and it's customary to attend a short Mass at each church visited.
● The Judas Bazaar: This activity occurs in certain locations. People have a personal item taken from them, which they then have to reclaim at the bazaar. The organizer will ask for something in return.
● Visiting the Flower Carpets: In different cities throughout Peru, beautiful flower carpets depicting the life of Jesus are created.
What do people eat during Holy Week?
Holy Week brings with it certain culinary traditions that are important to the faithful, as they were created to honor the suffering of Jesus during his Stations of the Cross and crucifixion.
One of the culinary rules during Holy Week, especially on Good Friday, is to abstain from meat. On this day, meat becomes a living representation of Jesus. Therefore, it is common to eat dishes containing fish on Good Friday.
During these days, the famous Siete Potajes (Seven Dishes) can also be enjoyed. This dish consists of a combination of rice, crackers, olives, fruit, cheese, and, of course, fish. This tradition is particularly strong in Catacaos.
In the north, it is very common to eat Malarrabia, a stew containing cheese, boiled plantains, beans, and rice. Sometimes fish or turkey is added, but not meat.
In Ayacucho, one of the most popular cities among Holy Week travelers, Sopa de Viernes (Friday Soup) is often prepared. It is very common because it is easy to make and delicious; it contains potatoes, olluco (a type of tuber), and vegetables, and is flavored with milk and cilantro.