On Saturday afternoon, at 5:30 PM, the residents of the village of Soo, in the municipality of Teguise, gathered in the social hall of the "El Buen Lugar" Socio-Cultural Center to celebrate the feast of San Juan Evangelista, affectionately known by the older residents as "San Juan el de los Viejos" (Saint John of the Old Ones)
The Eucharist was presided over by the parish priest of Tiagua, Rafael Tejera Parrilla, and featured the collaboration of several residents who actively participated in the readings for the celebration. The religious event took place in the social hall, which was prepared by the residents themselves, as the church remains closed for worship pending necessary repairs.
The image of Saint John the Evangelist presided over the Eucharist from its throne, specially prepared for the occasion, although the traditional procession could not be held this year. It is a much-loved image of great historical and devotional value, linked to the hermitage of San Juan Evangelista, originally built in the 17th century and which, despite the modifications it has undergone over time, remains one of the most unique hermitages on the island. This image represents the deep-rooted faith in the people of Soo and their religious heritage.
Upon concluding the Eucharist, the parish priest approached the exit door, where the Tinajo Archinech Easter Ranch awaited. The priest, carrying the image of the Child Jesus, made a solemn entrance singing "El Corrido," also known as "Besa Pie." Accompanied by the members of the ranch, the priest positioned himself next to the image of Saint John the Evangelist so that the parishioners could approach and perform the traditional "Besa Pie."
The Archinech Easter Ranch continued to perform songs typical of these dates, such as "El Niño mira a María," "Vamos todos Juntos," "Endechas," and concluded with the lively "Zapateo." The powerful and in-tune voices, accompanied by traditional instruments such as swords, the bone rattle, tambourines, castanets, triangle, guitars, lutes, and timples, filled the hall with joy and emotion, being rewarded with resounding and prolonged applause from the attending audience.
Once the performance concluded, all attendees were invited to taste the traditional sweet potato fritters, handcrafted by the women of Soo, accompanied by a glass of warm chocolateOnce again, the feast of San Juan Evangelista managed to bring together residents and visitors in an atmosphere of conviviality, tradition, and camaraderie, keeping alive the customs and community spirit of the town of Soo.
