Matachines Un Ministerio de danza y devociÓn

A Ministry of Dance and Devotion
Saint Faustina Catholic Church - Fulshear, TX

In the early part of October, the ladies of the Matachines of Saint Faustina begin their preparations for the coming celebration of Our Lady of Guadalupe. While the feast day itself takes place on December 12th, the members of this ministry gather for morning and evening rehearsals during the months prior, learning and refining choreography and the intricate rhythms that shape their ceremonial performance. Beyond the dance, the women work with the church to support educational opportunities for fellow parishioners, helping others to grow their connection to the Virgin Mother by learning about the historic events surrounding her appearance in Mexico.

The Matachines dance rehearsals take place both before and after work hours, in the Saint Faustina parking lot, and are accompanied by drummers (sons of the dancers). Seen here, these dedicated women meet under lamp and moon light, perfecting their steps into the late evening.
"The dance-drama of los Matachines is an ancient tradition in the Hispanic Southwest. It is one of the very few dances shared by both Hispanic and Native peoples. Its roots can trace their influences back to the Middle Ages in Europe and at the same time, find New World influences included within their scope." - Larry Torres, "Understanding Los Matachines"

While Matachines performances look different based on regional histories and traditions, here in Fulshear, Texas, it is comprised of approximately twenty women, a small band of drummers, and one viejo (old man). Donning a mask and bold striped clothing, the elder can often be found following the dancers; a representation of distraction, attempting to lead people astray. Guarding against this, the Matachines present a stunning vision in regalia of white fringe and feathers. Their vestments are created with care by a master craftsman in Monterrey, Mexico. The gourd rattles, which come from Guadalajara, emphasize the dance movement, as do the anklets made of coyoles (dried palm fruit). These sounds, along with the provided drumming and symbolic use of the bow and arrow, serve to defend the soul against the trials of evil.

The rattle
The bow & arrow
The headdress
The rosary

Sobre Las Bailarinas

About the Dancers

Led by parishioner Nora Marroquin and assisted by Lizy Martinez, the Matachines of Saint Faustina are a multi-generational group representing the diverse heritage of the Americas. Members include dancers with direct or familial connections to Mexico, Venezuela, Colombia, Peru, and the United States.

OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE CONFERENCE November 3rd & 4th, 2023
In collaboration with the Arquidiócesis de Monterrey and the Apostolado de Evangelización Guadalupana, Saint Faustina Catholic Church hosted an educational conference in the Fall. Featuring certified Guadalupano speakers Jose and Javier Cesarin, the informational presentations were provided to the community in both English and Spanish.

The Matachines hosted conference attendees at the church's Community Education Center, providing refreshments, educational materials, and mementos from Mexico.

Signed by Father Dat Hoang and Deacon Rey Croson, a certificate of appreciation was presented to both guest speakers for their "commitment to sharing Our Lady of Guadalupe's message of love to the world and our community".
December 12, 2023

Feast Day of Our Lady of Guadalupe

The solemnity of the traditional procession, with the Matachines following closely behind the rose-covered Lady of Guadalupe, marks the initial steps in the celebration of this blessed day. Moving forward into the church, the dancers take their positions along the pews, awaiting the Virgin Mother's arrival and placement above the steps of the alter's dais. As the dance of the Matachines is ceremonial in nature, it is incorporated into various aspects of the mass, providing an audio-visual devotion through wondrous sound and movement.

At the conclusion of the eucharist and the priest's command to go forth "in peace to love and serve the lord", the dancers follow out of the church in joyous celebration, sharing their ministry of dance with the community under the starry night's sky.

MATACHINES OF SAINT FAUSTINA

SAINT FAUSTINA CATHOLIC CHURCH
St. Faustina Catholic Church is a community where the deep love and mercy of God is lived, experienced, and shared.

This photoessay was made with respect for, and with permission from, the Matachines of Saint Faustina. Its intention is to create awareness and understanding for the work of this ministry, and to highlight those who continue to positively share the beauty of culture and faith with the world.

Photos by Heather McAdoo

Bibliography