Celebrating Tradition in Paraguay
In Emboscada, Paraguay, the rain may have poured, but that did not stop Blanca Servín from dressing her 7-year-old son in colorful bird costumes. They were part of a procession honoring St. Francis Solanus, the town’s patron saint, located about 20 miles from Asunción.
On July 24, many Catholics in Emboscada participate in this celebration by wearing elaborate feathered outfits. This tradition connects them with St. Francis, a 16th-century missionary known for his miracles, and reflects their promises made to him over the years.
Blanca shared a deeply personal story. “I couldn’t have children for a long time. After several treatments, I prayed to St. Francis Solanus during my pregnancy, promising to honor him if my child survived.” Her son, now almost 7, symbolizes hope for her and her commitment to faith and tradition.
The Feathered Tradition
Known as “promisers,” participants cover their faces and mimic birds as part of the ritual. Marcos Villalba spent months crafting his costume and proudly noted that his family has a long tradition of participating in this festival.
Sulma Villalba, another participant, dedicated six months to preparing her family’s costumes, painstakingly attaching feathers. She explained that while they fulfilled their promise to St. Francis, honoring him has become an enjoyable family tradition.
Ireneo López, a lay leader in the parish, emphasized St. Francis’s role as a missionary who brought the message of faith to Indigenous people through music. The first church dedicated to St. Francis was built in the 1930s, further strengthening the community’s bond.
Participants use materials from nature, reflecting ancient practices, and design their costumes from dozens of birds. “These garments symbolize our heritage,” López remarked.
A Rich History
Historically, the celebration takes place in a region once disputed by the Guaraní and Chacoan tribes before the Spanish arrived. It’s a reminder of the past and the interplay of cultures that shaped this community.
The Guaraní name for the festival, “Guaykurú Ñemondé,” means “dressing like a barbarian.” This phrase connects to their ancestors and the stories of conflict that underline the importance of remembrance in their festive gatherings.
Overall, the St. Francis festival in Emboscada highlights the deep faith, communal spirit, and rich culture of Paraguay, celebrated through vibrant traditions that bring generations together.
