Monument de San Lazaro

This Cathedral is a fascinating place. We went on a Saturday and there was a good crowd, not overwhelming but enough to make it interesting. Saint Lazarus is the patron saint of lepers, the sick, and those with AIDS. Often depicted as a thin man on crutches, clothed with rags, with leprous sores on his body. It is obvious why a figure as wretched as Lazarus should be petitioned for relief from chronic illness, immobilizing pain, and skin diseases -- but it is also a fact that Lazarus is a favorite saint whose help is sought by those who are poor and in need of money, especially those who hope to receive charitable gifts, government grants, and other forms of philanthropic assistance. To some extent the people who are at the Cathedral reflect this. In the adjacent parking lot there are vendors selling all sorts of kitschy statues, post cards and other trinkets. In mid-December there is a processional of penitents for several miles some of whom walk on their knees while others use small whips or switches to flagellate their backs. Inside many light candles, pray and meditate.