Arrecife, the capital of Lanzarote, experienced one of its most emblematic days this Monday, August 25, with the celebration of the festival of San Ginés Obispo, patron saint of the city. In a morning full of fervor and tradition, the liturgical and popular acts took place around the main church of San Ginés, a 16th century temple declared an Asset of Cultural Interest with the category of Monument, and which this Monday was showing off its best clothes for the occasion.
The three naves of the temple were splendidly adorned with floral arrangements in red tones, the same color that decorated the throne where the venerated image of the Patron Saint rested. The arrangements were made by the neighbor Francisco Hernández and his family, who each year contribute their art and devotion to this special event.
At twelve noon the Solemn Eucharist began, presided over by the priest Aday Josué García Jiménez, parish priest of San Diego de Alcalá (Tuineje) and Archpriest of Fuerteventura. Ten priests concelebrated, including the parish priest of San Ginés Obispo, Juan Carlos Medina. The celebration was musically accompanied by the 'Parish Choir', with the participation of the faithful and under the direction of Professor José Juan López Umpierrez, which added even more emotion to the ceremony.
During the homily, the presiding priest addressed a heartfelt speech to those present, reflecting on the life and legacy of San Ginés as an example of faith, commitment and service. The civil and military authorities occupied a prominent place in one of the lateral naves of the temple.
Before the Eucharist ended, the parish priest Don Juan Carlos Medina took the floor to thank all the collaborators for their effort and dedication, fundamentally so that the festivity could be celebrated with the solemnity it deserves. The Eucharist concluded with the intonation of the "Hymn San Ginés Obispo", which was sung with enthusiasm by those present.
The ringing of the bells then announced the beginning of the traditional procession. The image of the Patron Saint crossed the portico of the temple amidst applause, beginning its journey through the main streets of Arrecife. The entourage headed by the Music Band La Unión Musical de Lanzarote, directed by Professor Pepe Artiles, followed by the celebrating priests, authorities and numerous faithful who accompanied the image of the Patron Saint with recollection.
Upon returning to the temple, San Ginés was received again with applause and the ringing of bells, thus closing a day of deep devotion and popular participation, which each year reaffirms the bond between the people of Arrecife and their Patron Saint.
