Monday, March 7

Praying to the Saint of Lost Causes

adapted from Mexican Church Takes a Closer Look at Donors

Churches rise in Mexico
Brick and mortar
blood and drugs
Can stained money build a holy chapel?

Like pardoners from the  Middle Ages
selling ‘indulgences’, forgiving sins and promising heaven
salvation is again for sale

In Pachuca, a church the color of dawn bears a golden plaque
giving thanks to Heriberto Lazcano Lazcano, “the executioner,”
They vow to reject narcolimosnas, “narco alms,”
Yet priests still baptize here

Some holy men threatened
silently transferred to escape extortion and threats
An image of Saint Jude of lost causes shot to dust

Except for their prayers
Village worshipers scared silent
nadie se mete — no one gets involved


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