On Sunday, August 24, the town of San Bartolomé dressed in finery to celebrate with emotion, devotion, and pride the main day of its patronage festivities honouring Saint Bartholomew the Apostle. It was a heartwarming day, marked by heightened emotions, the reunion of neighbours and family members, and the shared remembrance of those who are no longer with us but remain alive in the collective memory.

From early morning, a special atmosphere enveloped the village. The streets welcomed with joy those who, adhering to tradition, adorned themselves in their finest attire for this highly anticipated celebration. Homes were filled with the scents of traditional recipes, homemade sweets, and special dishes prepared with care to share with family and visitors, all welcomed with the generosity typical of this festive season.

Celebration Highlights

At 12:00 pm, the parish church of San Bartolomé, beautifully decorated for the occasion, hosted the Solemn Eucharist, led by the parish priest Mr Francisco García Socorro alongside fellow concelebrating priests. The ceremony was accompanied by the emotive songs of the Municipal Choir, directed by Professor Mariola Ferrer Fajardo, with the harmonious organ music provided by Alejandro Jesús Rodríguez Rubio, who also restored the instrument.

The front pews were filled with civil and military authorities, including the mayor of San Bartolomé, Isidro Pérez; the president of the Lanzarote Cabildo, Oswaldo Betancort; parliamentarian Alicia Pérez; and the mayor of Haría, Alfredo Villalba, alongside councillors from the municipal corporation and representatives from the armed forces.

Following the Eucharist, the traditional procession with the revered image of San Bartolomé set off through the main streets of the historical centre, accompanied by the Municipal Band, directed by Professor Juan Kenty Mauri. Marching alongside the image were the priests, authorities, and the faithful, in a profound and reverent expression of faith.

The return of the saint to the church was met with ovations from the crowd, amid cheers, applause, and the ringing of church bells, all symbols of the fervour of a community that keeps its devotion alive year after year.

A Tradition Renewed

The feast of San Bartolomé once again proved to be a focal point for the soul of the village. A day where tradition and faith blend with emotion, remembrance, and shared celebration.