Bishop Eloy Santiago Presides Over First Holy Week in Tenerife
Bishop Eloy Santiago presided over his first Holy Week as head of the Nivariense Diocese, leading Palm Sunday processions and services across Tenerife.
Holy Week has officially begun in Tenerife, marking a significant milestone for the Nivariense Diocese as Bishop Eloy Santiago presides over his first Easter rites. Local media reported that the Bishop led the commemorations of Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, signaling the start of a period of deep devotion across the island.
The events opened near the Bishop’s Palace, where the Bishop blessed the palms before leading a procession to the Cathedral. During the service, Bishop Santiago focused his message on the role of the disciple, encouraging the faithful to remain attentive to the needs of the most vulnerable in society. His sermon was centered on the reading of the Passion according to the Gospel of Matthew, which serves as the foundation for the day’s spiritual reflection.
For the new Bishop, this marks his first time overseeing the central days of the Christian calendar, an experience he described as rewarding due to the high level of public participation. Holy Week remains deeply rooted in the island's social and cultural life, with local brotherhoods playing a key role in preserving this historical heritage. Following the ceremony at the Cathedral, the "Entry of Jesus into Jerusalem" procession moved through the historic center of La Laguna, accompanied by the local brotherhood and a large crowd of devotees.
The Sunday observances extended well beyond La Laguna, reaching various parts of the island. In Santa Cruz, services were held in neighborhoods such as El Tablero and La Salud, as well as at the parish of San José, which hosted the "Señor de la Burrita" procession. This widespread participation highlights the Church’s role in Tenerife, where Holy Week serves as a community event that blends solemn religious tradition with public celebration.