Yucatán Bans Old Religious Images in Processions to Preserve Heritage

Mérida, Yucatán — The Archdiocese of Yucatán has issued a decree restricting processions featuring religious images older than 76 years, a measure affecting both Yucatán and Campeche. The directive aims to preserve historical and religious heritage from deterioration caused by weather conditions and improper use of church properties, including a ban on launching fireworks from temple rooftops.

Preservation Over Tradition

Under the new rules, antique religious images may only be moved within churches during patron saint festivities. The archdiocese recommends using replicas for outdoor processions, granting parishes a one-year deadline to produce them.

The decree impacts deeply rooted traditions in both states. In Campeche, the September feast of San Román includes a procession with the revered Cristo Negro de San Román, drawing devotees nationwide. Similarly, Ciudad del Carmen’s July 16 celebration of the Virgen del Carmen features a maritime procession, one of the region’s most significant events.

In Yucatán, the August 15 festivities honoring the Virgen de Izamal, the state’s patron saint, involve community-wide processions in Izamal. These traditions will now require adjustments to comply with the archdiocese’s preservation efforts.

Key Provisions of the Decree

The decree, signed by Archbishop Gustavo Rodríguez Vega and Chancellor Secretary Edwin Beltrán Pereira, specifically prohibits the transport and handling of religious images dating before 1950. Exceptions may be granted by the local Ordinary in special cases, provided stringent safeguards for the original artifacts are in place.

To maintain processions without risking historical pieces, the archdiocese promotes creating "pilgrim images"—new replicas—with guidance from the Diocesan Commission of Sacred Art.

Safety Measures for Churches

The directive also addresses structural risks, banning fireworks from colonial-era church rooftops—a common practice during religious celebrations. Recent roof collapses in churches like Nabalam, Calkiní, and Tekax prompted urgent action.

Authorities at federal, state, and municipal levels are called upon to enforce the decree. Annual preventive roof inspections are mandated from June 1 to November 30, covering cleaning and maintenance to ensure congregant safety.

Jurisdictional Scope

The Archdiocese of Yucatán oversees churches and congregations in both Yucatán and Campeche, extending the decree’s reach across the two states. The measure seeks to balance heritage conservation with the continuity of religious traditions.