A Spectacle of Faith and Tradition
A Spectacle of Faith and Tradition: Semana Santa in Alcalá de Henares
Every year, the streets of Alcalá de Henares in Spain come alive with a spectacle of faith known as Semana Santa, or Holy Week. Recently, I had the opportunity to witness these powerful processions, a tradition steeped in history and religious fervor. Thousands lined the cobblestone streets on Thursday, April 17th, 2025, for Maundy Thursday, to observe the solemn displays put on by the Cofradía Cristo Universitario de los Doctrinos and the Cofradía Jesús Nazareno de Medinaceli. While we appreciate the dedication and community involvement in these events, it also gave us cause to reflect on some of the theological differences between these traditions and our own Pentecostal/Assemblies of God beliefs.
The vibrant colors of Semana Santa, yet the visual display is a reminder that traditions alone do not secure our relationship with God.
One of the most striking aspects of Semana Santa is the visual symbolism. Confraternities, or brotherhoods, parade through the streets, many dressed in distinctive robes and capirotes – the tall, pointed hats that often draw questions. These garments are worn by nazarenos, who are undertaking public acts of penance. The robes symbolize humility, and the capirotes represent a desire to be closer to God. Women often dress in black, a sign of mourning and respect.
Central to the processions are the pasos, or floats, carrying statues depicting scenes from the Passion of Christ or the Virgin Mary. These floats are ornately decorated with flowers, candles, and rich fabrics, and are carried by teams of men and women hidden beneath. The floats serve as a focal point for prayer and contemplation, but they also highlight a key difference in theological understanding. We believe that Jesus is the only mediator between God and humanity (1 Timothy 2:5). While honoring Mary for her role in salvation history, we don't believe in praying to her or any other saints. Our prayers are directed to God alone, through Jesus Christ.
A powerful image of sacrifice and penance, yet a reminder that salvation is a free gift through faith in Jesus, not through self-inflicted suffering.
Perhaps one of the most moving, and simultaneously disturbing, sights is that of penitents walking barefoot, some with chains binding their ankles. This act of self-inflicted suffering is intended as a display of remorse for sins and a plea for forgiveness. One image, in particular, shows a figure shrouded in black, carrying a heavy wooden cross, his bare feet shackled. This is a powerful image of sacrifice, but it also highlights a fundamental divergence in our understanding of salvation. As Pentecostals, we believe that salvation is a free gift from God, obtained through faith in Jesus Christ and His sacrifice on the cross (Ephesians 2:8-9). We do not believe that we can earn God’s favor or atone for our sins through acts of penance or self-mortification. Jesus paid the ultimate price for our sins; He suffered in our place.
A young girl reverently carries a banner before the image of Christ. A poignant scene, yet a reminder of our responsibility to teach the next generation the true Gospel.
Another image shows a young girl in white, reverently carrying a banner ahead of a float bearing an image of Jesus. While the scene is beautiful, it reminds us of the importance of teaching children the unadulterated truth of the Gospel. We must instill in them that salvation comes through faith alone, not through rituals or traditions.
Finally, an image with a priest and a banner framing a nazareno in a red pointed hat. The flag calls attention to the association and traditions they represent, which, again, do not align with Scripture.
While we can appreciate the cultural and historical significance of Semana Santa, and acknowledge the genuine faith of many participants, it's important to approach these traditions with discernment. As believers in the finished work of Christ, we are called to examine all things in light of Scripture (1 Thessalonians 5:21). We must always remember that our salvation is secured through faith in Jesus Christ alone, and not through any human effort or religious ritual.
Let us pray for those participating in Semana Santa, that they may come to a full understanding of the grace and truth found in Jesus Christ. May they discover the freedom and joy that comes from knowing Him as their personal Lord and Savior.
