The Lucena Holy Week Glossary Intagible Heritage

The confraternity glossary reproduced below is the work of Lucena native Ricardo Moreno Gómez, who, in his 1998 book Horquillo compiled more than five hundred terms associated with Holy Week and the ‘santería’ tradition of Lucena. It is a contribution of great value for understanding the rich vocabulary that has emerged around this unique tradition, the result of centuries of popular religiosity and the oral transmission of knowledge between generations of ‘santeros’, ‘manijeros’ and confraternity members.

This repertoire of words and expressions forms part of theintangible heritage of Lucena and reflects a distinctive way of experiencing and understanding Holy Week, deeply rooted in the identity of the town.

Part of this vocabulary also has its roots in the agricultural and rural world, reflecting Lucena’s historic connection with the countryside and the popular origins of many of its traditions. Terms as representative as ‘manijero’ or ‘cuadrilla’ come precisely from that rural environment, having been incorporated over time into the distinctive language of the ‘santería’ and Holy Week in Lucena.

This Glossary therefore aims to serve as a reference and outreach tool for those who wish to become acquainted with the terminology of the confraternity world of Lucena and to gain a better understanding of the language that accompanies a living tradition that remains present throughout the year in Lucena.

Its dissemination without the author’s consent is prohibited.

ABROCHARSE.  (To lock oneself onto the pole). The art of the ‘santero’ and the carrying pole (‘varal’) he embraces becomen a single unit.

ACEITUNERO.  Popular name by which the Sacred Image of the Mos Holy Christ of the Humiliation, the titular image of the Servite Brotherhood, is known. The brotherhood holds its procession on Holy Tuesday.

ACÓLITO / ACOLYTE.  A member of a brotherhood who, during the services in honour of the titular images or during the procession, wears a dalmatic and carries either the incense or the ceremonial candles, and is accordingly known as a ‘turiferario’ (thurifer)or a  ‘ceroferario’ (ceriferary).

ACTA / MINUTES.The official    record , drawn up by the secretary and approved by the ‘Hermano Mayor’ (Head of the brotherhood), of the deliberations held at meetings of the Governing Board and the General Assembly of members.

ADORNO FLORAL / FLORAL DECORATION.      The arrangement of flowers used to adorn processional thrones and devotional altars.   Each throne has its own traditional floral decoration.   The flowers most commonly used are  carnations, gladioli, roses, daisies, irises, lilies, and gerberas as well as, in some cases, tulips, which are arranged into floral displays.   The flowers are complementd by greenery such as  mastic, paniculata,  or  fern.

ADVOCACIÓN / DEDICATION.   The title under which a church is dedicated or sacred image is venerated.

AGONÍA / AGONY.   The dedication of the titular image of Christ belonging to the Brotherhood of the Garden (Cofradía del Huerto), which holds its procession on Palm Sunday.

AGRUPACIÓN DE COFRADÍAS / ASSOCIATION OF BROTHERHOODS.   An association comprising the town’s penitential brotherhoods and some of its glory brotherhoods.   It was founded in 1944.   Among its principal functions are the coordination and representation of the various  brotherhoods that form part of it.   Each year, it publishes the official poster, magazine, and programme  of Holy Week.   It collaborates with any      charitable and public-interest associations that request its support and maintains an important charitable fund.   Throughout  the year, and specially during Lent, it organises various cultural and educational events.

AGUSTINAS / AGUSTINIAN NUNS. The name by which the Agustinian Recollect Sisters are popularly known.  The Agustinian Recollect Sisters are honorary members of the Brotherhood of Our Lady of Solitude.

AHORQUILLAR / TO PROP UP THE THRONE WITH A SUPPORT.   To place the ‘horquilla’ vertically beneath the ‘varales’ (carrying poles), allowing the weight of the throne to rest on it while ensuring that the throne remains still, so that the ‘santero’ can recover from the preceding exertion.

AJORQUILLAR.   See ‘Ahorquillar’.

¡AL SUELO! / DOWN TO THE GROUND!  Command given by the ‘manijero’ at the last of the three stages involved in lowering the throne, indicating that it should be set down on the ground.   The alternative command ‘¡vaya al suelo!’(take it down to the ground!) is also used.

ALEGORÍA / ALLEGORY.   Simbolism or representation.   Several allegorical symbols can be found in the brotherhoods and processions of Lucena’s Holy Week:

    Palm branch: celebration, resurrection, victory and triumph.   It is carried by St. John on Good Friday and appears in ‘La Pollinita’ on Palm Sunday.

     White dove: peace and the Holy Spirit.   You can see it  in the glory scene of the former canopy of the ‘Campanitas’.

    Olive branches: peace.   They are held by of Our Lady of the Campanitas.

    Ear of wheat: the Eucharistic bread.   It appears on the ‘horquillas’ (support forks) of the crosses of Jesus the Nazarene; Love; and Descent.   It has its origins in an offering sheaf of silver ears of wheat presented by farmers from Jaén to Our Father Jesus the Nazarene, popular known as ‘El Abuelo’ (the Grandfather), as a token of gratitude and a lasting remembrance of the harvest obtained after prayers had been offered to the image.

   Woman holding a cross and a chalice:  Faith.   She appears in the Maundy Thursday procession.

   Cross with the burial cloth: Triumph of Jesus over Death and Sin (by dying, He conquered death). It appears in the Good Friday procession.

ALFILER ADVOCATIVO.   Pin or brooch bearing, on its outer side, the name of the Dolorosa whose headdress it adorns.   It is usuallyu made of gold.

ALMOHADILLA.   Rectangular cloth pad, aproximately 50 cm  x  30 cm, filled with wool or padding, which is tied to the ‘varal’ by four ribbons, enclosing the wedge, in order to cushion the weight of the throne on the ‘santero’s’ shoulder.

ALTAR DE CULTOS.   Ephemeral structure, richly decorated, erected by a brotherhood in the chancel of the church where it is based in orden to celebrate the services in honour of its Titular Images, and crowned by a canopy that houses  the Image to which the worship is dedicated.

ALTAR DE INSIGNIAS.   Display arranged by a brotherhood on the day of its procession, featuring the insignia of its cortege (guide cross, lanterns, staffs, dalmatics, standard, etc.) for exhibition.   It is usually installed in the chapel, now vacant, of its Titular Images.

AMARGURA.   Title of the Virgin Mary who is the Titular Image of the Brotherhood of the Valley.  2   Title of a ‘Dolorosa’ venerated in the Brotherhood of Our Lady of Carmen.

AMARRAR.   To tie the cushion to the ‘asón’ and the ‘varal’.   2   To be a ‘santero’.  It is used when indicating the number of times one has served as a ‘santero’.

AMBREÁ.   A type of waterproof covering, owing to the layer of pitch or tar with which it was coated, used in the past to protect labourers and pack animals.   In ‘santería’ terminology, to have a good ‘ambreá’ means to be alongside a good ‘hampón’.

AMOR.   Title  of the Nazarene who is the principal image (Titular) of the brotherhood of the same name.  2  Name by which the Brotherhood of the Most Holy Christ of Love and Most Hoy Mary of Peace), which takes part in procession on Holy Tuesday.

AMORCILLAO.   Said of a ‘santero’ whose posture has become distorted, who is exhausted and unable to continue carrying out his duties as a ‘santero’ properly.

ANÁS.   High Priest of the Jews, father-in-law of Caiaphas, whom he preceded in office.   Because of his great prestige within the Sanhedrin, Jesus was brought before him first.

ANDAS.   Pedestal fitted with a carrying poles for the transport of Images or for conducting the Stations of the Cross (Via Crucis) with them.

ÁNGEL.   Heavenly spirit of the last choir created by God for His ministry.   In the Garden of Gethsemane, one appeared to Jesus to comfort Him, and thus  he is represented in the mystery of the Agony in the Garden.   On many other thrones, angels appear as decorative motifs, bearing the symbols of the Passion (then called ‘pasionistas’), carrying a lantern (‘ceriferario’), a censer (‘turiferario’), or any other object (‘tenante’).

ÁNGELES.   Title of the Virgin Mary who is the Titular Image  of the Brotherhood of the Risen Christ.

ANGUSTIAS.   Title of the Virgin Mary who is the Titular Image  of the Brotherhood of Passion, , also known as Virgin of Stone.   2   Title of the ‘Dolorosa’ who, with the lifeless body of Jesus in her lap, is venerated in the Parish of Santo Domingo.

ANTIFAZ.   Part of the Nazarene’s habit that covers the face, enclosing the ‘capirote’ and falling to the shoulders.

APADRINAR.   To sponsor a brotherhood or an individual at a first public act (presentation Mass, penitential procession), or an Image at its blessing or coronation.

APAGAVELAS.   Long pole fitted with a snuffer at one end, used to extinguis candles during services and on processional thrones.  See Caña de encender.

APLAUDIR.   To applaud as a sign of aproval.   This practice, entirely out of flace in our Holy Week, has been clearly imported from other regions.   It is generally believed that, in keeping with our tradition, an emotional silence is far more expressive than applause.

APURAR.   The healthy ‘santero’ determination to outperfom the ‘contra’.   It is also said that a ‘santero’ or ‘cuadrilla’ ‘van apuraos’, when the ‘santería’ is not going well for them.

ARCHICOFRADÍA   Brotherhood that possesses the priviledge and authority  to affiliate with itself other brotherhoods of the same kind.   This title may only be granted by the Holy See.   In Lucena, those of Jesus and Carmen.

ARMONÍA.   A spirit of camaraderie, good humour, and healthy rivarly  among ‘contras’, respectful of the ‘santería’, which exists ―or ought to exist― at gatherings of ‘santeros’-

ARO DE ESTRELLAS.   Diadem or halo which, when Dolorosas are dressed in the Hebrew style and therefore do not wear a crown, is placed behind the head. It is made of precious metal and is adorned around its entire circumference with stars of the same metal.

ARRASTRAR.  To be the ‘santero’ or the ‘cuadrilla’   overcome by the weight of the throne being carried causing serious difficulties in maintaining the graceful manner of bearing the  paso, and resulting in the santero’s posture becoming distorted.

ARRUGARSE.   To become discouraged when faced with adversity.   In ‘santero’ terminology, when faced with an occasional increase in the weight borne during the ‘santería’.

ASÓN.   Handle which, at each santero’s position, serves both for tying the  cushion and for gripping the  throne when it is carried  by hand.

ATAR.   See Amarrar.

AUREOLA.   Radiance or halo, made of precious metal, placed behind the heads of saints.

AVIAR.   Selection made by the ‘manijero’ of his ‘santeros’ on an individual basis.

BACALAO.   Banner or insignia of a brotherhood, richly embroidered, which, when gathered around the staff that supports it, takes on the shape of that fish owing to the frame beneath it.

BÁCULO.   See ‘Vara’.

BAMBALINA.   The section that hangs from the roof, between the varales (poles) of a ‘paso de palio’..

BANDA DE CORNETAS Y TAMBORES.   Musical ensemble  composed primarily of bugles  and drums, as its name suggest, although it frequently also includes various brass instruments such as trumpets, trombones and euphoniums.

BANDA DE MÚSICA.   Musical ensemble  composed predominantly of wind instruments (both woodwind and brass), and also including percussion instruments.

BANDERA.    Cloth banner mounted on a staff and used as the insignia of a brotherhood or confraternity.

BANQUILLO.   Wooden or metal frame, usually consisting of two supports, which holds the throne while it is stored in its repository or kept inside the church.   Interestlingly, the pasos (thrones) of the Archconfraternity of Jesus are placed on their supports in Plaza Nueva on Good Friday, until the procession continues.

BARRABÁS.   A bandit who was being held in Jerusalem on a murder charge at the same time taht Jesus was arrested.   Following the Jewish tradition  of releasing a prisoner at Passover, Pilate offered; however, the crowd chose the release of Barabbas, thereby condemning our Saviour to death.

BARRENILLAS.   Popular name by which the processional throne of Our Father Jesus Stripped of His Garments is known.   In the scene, there is a Jew who, with an auger in hand, prepares the cross for the Martyrdom, giving his name to the entire group.   It is placed in the Hous of Brotherhood of the Brotherhood of Love.

BENDICIÓN.   The blessing imparted, by means of a spring mechanism, by the Sacred Image of Jesus the Nazarene on Passion Sunday and Good Friday during His procession in Plaza Nueva, Coso and in front of its  chapel prior to His return.

BESAMANOS.   Devotional act which, in honour of a Virgin Mary of Christ, consists of kissing the hand of the Image during a day specially arranged for this purpose by the Brotherhood.

BESAPIÉS.   Devotional act which, in honour of a Christ, consists of kissing the foot of the Image during a day specially arranged for this purpose by the Brotherhood.Particularly notable is the   Besapiés  held for Our Father Jesus, which brings together the whole Lucena on Passion Sunday; and that of the Holy Christ of Silence, attended only by the brethen and ‘santeros’, taking place behind closed doorss on the night of the Friday of Sorrows.

BOCINA.   Muted trumpet which, as a mark of respect and as a reminder of past traditions, accompanies the processional thrones of the brotherhoods and confraternities.  A cloth bearing the colours of the brotherhood or embroidered motifs related to it is attached to its tube.

BOLETÍN DEL COFRADE.   Publication of the Agrupación de Cofradías of Lucena which, since 1994 and in the form of an informational bulletin, has provided information on the activities of the brotherhoods and confraternities and includes a section devoted to formation, interviews, etc.

BOLO.   At gatherings of ‘santeros’, when the ‘manijero’, after sticking a piece of cutlery into the centre of the ‘perol’, calls for a pause for a particular purpose.

BOLSA DE CARIDAD.   Funds allocated to charitable and welfare works, either drawn from a brotherhood’s budget or raised through other means (raffles, collections, charitable dinners).

BONDAD.   Title  of the Nazarene who is the principal image (Titular) of the Brotherhood of Sacred Encounter.

BORDAR.   To carry out something in an outstandig manner.   In ‘santero’ terminology, when the ‘santería’ is carried out in accordance with tradition and the ‘cuadrilla’ performs with distinction, it is said to have come out bordá (“embroidered”).

BORRACHUNA. Term used for the rhyming verses sung by the ‘santeros’ to one another during ‘santero’ gatherings and meetings. Author’s note: the use of this vocabulary is defended by some and criticised by others, with both sides presenting highly interesting arguments. See ‘Saeta de santería’.

BOTAR.  To raise the shoulder on which the throne is being carried while ‘santeando’, without lifting it away from the cushion.   This is done when the foot corresponding to the shoulder bearing the weight comes down in support, giving the processional Image the appearance of movement.   That is a characteristic of thrones bearing representations of Christ alive.

BUENA MUERTE Y ÁNIMAS.   Title of the Crucified Christ who forms part of the Calvary of El Carmen, in this parish.   In the late 1960s, he was the Titular Image of a brotherhood associated with the Legion.

BUQUÉ.   Pinecone-shaped floral arrangement. See ‘Piña’.

CABILDO.   Meeting of the Governing Board or of the members of a brotherhood; in the latter case, it is known as a ‘General Chapter of the Brethen’.

CAFÉ,  EL.   Traditional event in which the ‘cuadrilla’, having been summoned by the  ‘manijero’, and before making its way to the church in procession, visits a café or other hospitality venue where, over a coffee (or another refreshment), aspects of the forthcoming ‘santería’ are usually recalled or finalised.

CAÍDO.    Title added to the Nazarene who is the Titular Image  of the brotherhood of the same name.   2  Name by which the Brotherhood of Our Father Jesus Fallen and Mary Holy of Health, of Maundy Thursday, is commonly known.

CAIFÁS.   High Priest of the Jews and son-in-law of Annas.   In the Sanhedrin, he imposed the death sentence upon Jesus.

CAIREL.     Cord ending in a tassel which aapears to hold the ‘bambalina’ (valance) in place, hanging gracefully.

CAJÓN.   On some thrones, beneath the ‘canastilla’ (basketwork), there is a wooden box used during the procession to carry tools or items that may be needed, such as tape for the cushions, wire, a key for the wedges, and so forth.

CALVARIO.   Hill on the outskirts of Jerusalem where Our Lord Jesus Christ was put to death.   In Greek it is called Golgotha, translated as ‘skull’.   2 Sculptural group venerated in the Church of Saint Martin, belonging to the Augustinian Recollet Nuns, composed of the carvings of Christ, the Virgin Mary, Saint John, Mary Magdalene, Dismas, Gestas and Longinus.      3  Generic name for the representation  of the Crucified Lord, the Virgin Mary, and Saint John (e.g. that of El Carmen).

CALLE.   Central space left between the two sections of candles on a ‘paso de palio’, allowing the Virgin to be seen from the front of the throne.

CAMARERA.   Office within the Governing Board of certain brotherhoods whose responsibilities include the care and safekeeping of the Titular Images’ garments and altar cloths, as well as their maintenance, upkeep, and making; in some cases, the holder of this office is also responsible for dressing the Dolorosa.

CAMARÍN.   Structure behind the altar where a venerated Image is housed and displayed for devotion.

CAMELLERO.   A Santero who always carries in all ‘santerías’ on the same shoulder, even going so far as to change the position of the bell when he serves as ‘manijero’.

CAMISITOS.   Popular name by which the Sacred Image of the Holy Christ of Mercy is also known, owing to the business run by its ‘cuadrillero’.  As a processional throne, it made its final procession on Holy Monday in 1990.   Previously, it processed on Holy Tuesday.   It is currentlyu venerated in the Convent  of the Discalced Carmelite Nuns, who are its owners.

CAMPANA.   Metal bell fitted with a spring-loaded striker ending in a small ball, used by the ‘manijero’ to signal the beginning and end of each ‘horquillo’.  It is originally from Málaga, but its placement and adaptation are distinctly Lucena in style. It is documented  that the bell was first used in  1885 on the throns of the Brotherhood of the Vera Cruz.   Oral tradition also tells us that, towards the end of the 19th century, it was used in the ‘santería’ of the Cristo de la Humildad ―del Carmen) (Christ of Humility―El Carmen).

CAMPANILLA.  Bell carried by a member of the Governing Board to regulate the ranks of the ‘nazarenos’ during the procession, signalling when to advance and when to halt.

CAMPANITAS.   Popular name by which the Sacred Image of Our Lady of the Peace Titular image of the Brotherhood of Love is known, which processes on Holy Tuesday.   This name derives from the small bells that chime on the fourteen ‘varales’ (poles) of its ‘paso de palio’.

CANASTILLA.    Basketwork structure mounted  on the ‘parihuelón’, serving as the base for the Images.   On ‘pasos de palio’ it is usually made of finely chased precious metal; on other thrones, it may be crafted from the same material, from beautifully carved wood, or from wood covered in velvet.

CANDELABRO.   Multi-branched candlestick used to hold the candles that provide light on the throne or during acts of worship.   On processional thrones, these may be either tree-style candelabra or tail candelabra.

CANDELERÍA.   Set of candelabra.   On ‘pasos de palio’, sets of candlabra of different sizes are used to create a more elegant arrangement.

CANDELERO.   In certain dressed Images, the internal framework or structure extending from the waist to the feet, which simulates this part of the anatomy.   It is made up of wooden slats, all covered with canvas, wooden or metal panels.     2 Single-branched candlestick.

CANTAOR.   Flamenco singer who offers a saeta to the Images as an expression of devotion and prayer.

CANTILLÓN.   Marker squad.   See ‘Escantillón’.

CANTONERA.   Metal fitting attached to the edges and corners of processional crosses, ‘nazareno’ crosses, books of rules, and similar items.

CAÑA DE ENCENDER.   A stick, of whatever length is required, onto which the wick and cap are placed, used to light and extinguish the candles on altars or processional floats.   Nowadays, the traditional pole has undergone many innovations, including the incorporation of gas lighters.   See ‘Apagavelas’.

CAPA.    Sleeveless garment, open at the front, which falls from the shoulders almost to the feet of the ‘nazareno’, completing the habit in some brotherhoods.

CAPILLA.   Popular name by which the Sacred Image of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, the Titular Image of the Good Friday brotherhood, is known.   2    Small chapel dedicated to a sacred image.   By excellence in Lucena, that of Jesus Nazareno. 3   Part of a church in which the Titular Images of a brotherhood are kept for daily veneration.   4  Each of the niches on a processional throne housing a small figure, relief, or painting to the Image being carried or to the titular brotherhood.

CAPILLA DE JESÚS NAZARENO.  Chapel from which the Archconfraternity of Jesus the Nazarene (Good Friday) begins its penitential procession.

CAPILLITA.   Colloquial term referring to someone who belongs to one or more brotherhoods, takes an active part in their activities, and is closely involved in the world of Holy Week brotherhoods.   2    V. Capilla de Jesús.

CAPIROTE.   Cardboard framework covered with the fabric of the nazareno’s or santero’s habit.   By  extension, the term also refers to the entire assembly.   For the santeros, the term refers to both the rigid visor they wear and the fabric that hangs down from it at the back.    For nazarenos, it refers to the conical framework and the fabric that covers it, concealing the nazareno’s head and face down to the shoulders (see Antifaz).

CAPIRUCHO.   Face veil that covers the conical framework of the capirote, concealing the nazareno’s face.   By extension, in Lucena the term is also used to refer to the nazareno taking part in the procession.

CARMELITA.    Additional title borne by the Nazarene venerated in the Convent of the Discalced Carmelite Nuns.

CARRERA OFICIAL.   Common processional route prescribed by tha Agrupación de Cofradías, or simiar governing body, which must be followed by all the brotherhoods. It usually includes official grandstands at the beginning and end of the route to monitor procession timings, as well as a presidential stand.   In Lucena, there is no offical common processional route as such. Instead, thereis only a ‘de facto’ shared section, where all the brotherhoods naturally coincide as they pass in front of the Parish Church of Saint Matthew.

CARTEL.   Poster, carefully designed and displayed in public places through which a brotherhood announces the celebration of its acts of worship.   The official poster announcing our Holy Week is published each year by the Agrupación de Cofradías.

CARTELA. Medallion bearing, at its centre, a coat of arms, monogram, relief, or painted motif associated with the brotherhood or its Titular Image, serving as a decorative element executed in the same artistic style as the resto of the work.

CASA DE HERMANDAD.   Building  owned by a brotherhood, providing facilities for members meetings, offices, archives, storage, and the various educational, cultural and social activities it organises.   They are especially active during Lent.   Also known as brotherhood headquarters.

CASA HERMANDAD.  See ‘Casa de hermandad’.

CASQUETE.   Ornamental finial in worked metal fittet to the  poles of a processional throne or to the arms of crosses, whether processional crosses, nazareno crosses, or crucifixes.

CAUTIVO.   Image of Christ in captivity.

CEDRÓN.   The Brook of Judea, famous in the Bible, which separates Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives.   Some preachers of our Holy Week have used the simile o the “Water Street of the Kidron”.

CERA.   Raw material used to make the candles and tapers for the brotherhoods.   It is always white for the Virgin’s thrones, and in the colour of the brotherhood for the Christ’s throne.

CERIFERARIO.    Person who carry a candle   Used to refer either to acolytes or to statues of youthful angels.

CEROFERARIO.  See ‘Ceriferario’.

CIMBRA.  Position on one side of the throne between the two legs (or counterlegs); by extension, the ‘santero’ occupying that position.

CÍNGULO.   Cord worn as part of the nazareno’s habit (See Cordón)  2 Gold cord  used as a cincture on Images of the Lord, with its ends hanging down the length of the tunic and finished with ornate tassels.   3  Images of Dolorosas sometimes wear silk cinctures   in the form of bows around their skirts, with tasselled ends or gold embroidery.

CINTO.  Belt worn by santeros over their tunic to gather it to the appropriate length, remaining concealed beneath the folds of the garment.   2   Harness made up of several straps, worn over the sash and benetah the tunic, reinforcing the sash’s protective and supportive function.

CIRENEO.   Name given to Simon, father of Alexander and Rufus, a gardener by trade and a native of Cyrene, who was compelled to carry Christ’s cross on the way to Calvary.   He is depicted holding the cross by its lower end.   Many authors specialist in Holy Week regard him as the first santero.   He appears on the ‘paso del Valle’.

CIRIAL.   Tall candlestick.   Stand used to hold the candle or taper carried by  members of the brotherhood as they accompany the Titular Images  during the procession.   It is known as cirial de respeto (ceremonial candlestick) the taller version that accompanies  processional thrones.

CIRINEO.    Person  who assists another  in carrying out a task. See ‘Cireneo’.

CLÁMIDE.   The purple cloak placed on Jesus by the Roman soldiers after His scourging, in order to mock Him.

COFRADE.   Member of a brotherhood who, in accordance with its statutes, must be a Catholic.   When, on the day of its penitential procession, that member dons the brotherhood’s habit, he is known as a nazareno or capirucho.

COFRADÍA.   Public association of the Catholic faithful, established in accordance with the applicable law to promote public worship of the mysteries of the Passion, Death and Resurrection of Our Lord, of the Most Holy Sacrament of the Eucharist, of the Blessed Virgin Mary, and of the Saints.  It is subject to the authority of the bishop of the corresponding diocese.   The current Code of Canon Law devotes a considerable number of canons to their establishment, activities, requirements, administration of assets, and the rights and obligations of their members.   A confraternity or brotherhood legally comes into being through its canonical erection by the prelate.   It shall not be deemed to have ceased to exist, save by decision of the ecclesiastical authority, for as long as at least one registered member remains.   In Lucena  , the terms ‘cofradía’ and ‘hermandad’ are used interchangeably, without regard to the distinction that a ‘cofradía’ is a ‘hermandad’ that carries out the penitential procession.

COFRADÍA DE GLORIA.   A corporate boty devoted to the veneration of an image of Our Lord Jesus Christ, the Virgin Mary, or a saint depicted in a glorious scene.

COFRADÍA DE PENITENCIA.   A corporate body approved by the ecclesiastical authority, enabling its members, clad in the nazareno tunid to preserve their anonymity, to perform an act of  penance in a public and outward expression of faith.

COFRADÍA SACRAMENTAL.   A corporate body devoted to the worship of the Most Blessed Sacrament of the Altar. 

COHETE.   Firework device used to announce acts of worship and ‘besamanos’ or ‘besapiés’, calling the  faithful to attend.

COLEAR.   The distinctive style of carrying a processional ‘paso’, resulting from the front and rear bearers stepping out of sync with one another.   The Holy Burial is carried in this manner.   It may also ocurr in the first moments after a throne is lifted to the shoulder when the ‘cuadrilla’ is out of step,  with some advancing on the right foot while others  advance on the left.

COLUMNA.   The popular name by which the Sacred Image of Our Father Jesus bound to the column, Patron of the Holy Thursday brotherhood.   2   Name by which the Brotherhood  of Our Father Jesus Bound to the Column and Mary Holy of Peace and Hope, of Maundy Thursday.   3     The name also given to the image of Christ bound to the column venerated in the Franciscan Friars’ monastery.   Its iconography differs from that of the sacred image depicting the same Gospel episode venerated in the Church of Santiago.

COLUMNERO.   Relating to the Brotherhood of the Column or its sacred titular image.   A devotee of Christ Bound to the Column.

COLUMNILLA.   An organised group of ‘santeros’ which, despite having no sacred image to carry, appoints a ‘manijero’ from among its members to allocate positions  and organise gatherings of ‘santeros’.

CONFIANZA.   The dedication of the Crucified Christ venerated in the Parish Church of Santiago.

CONSILIARIO.   A counsellor.   2     A member of the Governing Board of the Brotherhood of Jesus the Nazarene   who, as a general rule,  will serve as ‘cuadrillero’ in the following term of office.   In earlier times this office was called Deputy for Insignia and Worship.   3   An adviser to the Association of Brotherhoods serving as a consultant with officer status, but without a vote and with no obligation to attend meetings.

CONTRA.    In a ‘cuadrilla’ the position – and the ‘santero’ occupying it – diametrically opposite another position on the throne.

CONTRAESQUINA.    Position next to a corner post; by extension, the ‘santero’ occupying that position.

CONTRAPATA.   A position -and the ‘santero’ occupying it- between a ‘pata’ and the second ‘contrapata’ or ‘cimbra’.

CONTRARREPISÓN.   A position -and the ‘santero’ occupying it- between the ‘repisón’ and the ‘canastilla’.   This position exists only on the throne of Mary Most Holy of Araceli on her feast day.

CONTRASQUINA. See Contraesquina.

CORAZÓN.   A heart shaped jewel adorning the breast of Sorrowful Virgins and some images of Christ.   On Sorrowful Virgins it is pierced by one or seven daggers, symbolising Mary’s sorrow.

CORDÓN.   A thin cord, usually ending in small tassels, used by ‘santeros’ in some teams or by ‘nazarenos’ in some brotherhoods to fasten the tunic at the waist.   2  Silk or gold thread cords  adorning canopy curtains, canopies, standards or flags,  or from which brotherhood medals  hang.

CORONA.   An ornament placed on images of the Most Holy Virgin to signify her exalted dignity as Queen, since she is the Mother of Our Redeemer.   Made of precious metal,  it consist of a radiant halo with rays ending in stars,  surrounding the circlet fitted over the image’s temples.

CORONA DE ESPINAS. A circlet of interwowen rushes bearing plant throns, placed on Our Lord Jesus Christ by the Roman soldiers in mockey as they proclaimed Him King of the Jews.  According to tradition, it bore 72 thorns and was deposited in Notre-Dame of Paris in August 1239 by St Louis, King of France (Louis IX).  On our sacred images it may be a separate piece made of wood or precious metal or carved in one piece with the sculpture by the image-maker.

CORONACIÓN CANÓNICA. A solem ceremony held in honour of an image of the Most Holy Virgin. Its requirements include  genuinely popular devotion and an image at least one hundred years old.   In the summer of 1997, the liturgical coronations of several Sorrowful Virgins in Seville that did not meet these requierements were recognised as canonical.

CORONILLA DE GUARDABRISA. A worked-metal ring placed like a crown at the top of a glass candle shade to ornament and embellish it

CORREÓN.  An old method  of carrying sacred images.   The bearers wore straps, or ‘correones’,  fitted around their bodies and attached  to the image’s platform,  enabling them to lift it from the ground with the straps and move one place to another. Under a resolution of the Governing Board of the Brotherhood of Jesus the Nazarene dated 31st March 1839, the use of the ‘correón’was henceforth prohibited.   Author’s note:   There is no consensus  regarding the ‘correón’ theory, some people consulted by the compiler of this vocabulary believe that it was not used for every  sacred image.

CORTARSE LA COLETA.   An euphemistic expression (although on occassion it has literally involved cutting off the trailing part of the ‘capirote’)   meaning to cease carrying thrones as a ‘santero’ for life.

COSTADO.   Either of the two longer sides of a throne.   The side running from the ‘manijero’’s corner to the health corner is called the right side, and that running from the left corner to the bad corner is called the left side.

CRISMÓN.   A Greek monogram of the name of Christ formed by the interlaced letters   ji  and  a  rho .

CRISTO.   The term used for images of Jesus  crucified.   The word Christ, of Greek origin, means  Messiah.   2   Generally, any Image of Jesus.

CRISTO DE BLANES.   Popular name by which the Sacred Image of Our Father Jesus Fallen, belonging to the Brotherhood that processes on Maundy Thursday,is also known, derived from the surname of one of its former ‘cuadrilleros’.

CRUCIFICADO.   Image of Jesus nailed to the cross.   The presence or absence of the wound in His right side determines whether the image represents the dead or the living Christ.   Longinus pierced Jesus’s side with his spear to verify His death after it had already occurred.

CRUZ.   A structure formed by two pieces of wood, one set across the other, on which the Romans executed those condemned to death.   It consisted of a horizontal beam, the ‘patibulum’, and a vertical beam (fixed at the place of execution), the  ‘stipes’.  Because Our Redeemer suffered death upon it, it is the symbol of our faith.

CRUZ ARBÓREA.   A cross whose beams resemble natural tree trunks, with knots and rough bark (for example, the Christ of the Blood or the Holy Faith), as opposed to slender, flat and smoothly finished crosses (for example, Christ of  Silence).

CRUZ DE GUÍA.   The cross that heads the cortege in a procession.   It must be accompanied by a pair of  lanterns.

CUADRAR.   The subtle action performed by the corner bearers to align the throne correctly with the centre line of the street. A throne is said to be ‘descuadrao’ when its sides are not parallel with the kerbs.  2   To position a throne correctly before executing a turn, following the ‘manijero’’s instructions.

CUADRILLA.   The group of ‘santeros’ who will carry a sacred image under the command of the ‘manijero’.   It is a   temporary association created when the team is recruted (the ‘avío’) and dissolved after the procession   During Holy Week, a team may comprise 20 ‘santeros’ (Holy Burial), 24 (Christ of Love, Christ of Silence…), 26 (Medinaceli, Virgin of Hope…) or 28 (Agony in the Garden, Jesus the Nazarene…).

CUADRILLERÍA.   The office of the ‘cuadrillero’.   The period for which the ‘cuadrillero’ holds office. 

CUADRILLERO.   A member of the Governing Board who, where the office exists, is responsible for the brotherhood’s ‘santería’ and is obliged to take the sacred image out in procession, either appointing the ‘manijero’ who will command the team or doing so himself.   In former times, for various reasons, numerous sacred images were kept in the homes of their ‘cuadrilleros’, giving rise to major legal disputes between them and their brotherhoods.   The office still exists today in the Archbrotherhood of Jesús Nazareno  and in the Pollinita and Love brotherhoods.

CUARESMA.   The period from Ash Wednesday to Easter Sunday, understood as preparation for the Passion, Death and Resurrection of the Lord.   During these forty days, services are held in honour of the various titular images, beginning with those dedicated to  the Lord of the Agony in the Garden and ending with those organised by the brotherhoods of Solitude, Love, the Encounter, the Valley and Jesús the Nazarene.

CUARESMA LUCENTINA.    A television programme produced and broadcast by Videoluc TV during Lent,  dealing with brotherhood life and the world of the ‘santeros’.   It has been broadcast since 1988.  2   A programme on brotherhood life and the world of the ‘santeros’ broadcast by Radio Lucena in 1990, 1991 y 1993.

CUBRERROSTRO.    The part of the ‘nazareno’’s habit that covers the ‘capirote’ and conceals the member’s face.   It has two openings at eye level to allow vision.   Also known as ‘antifaz’ (mask).

CULTOS.  Acts of worship held in honour of a brotherhood’s titular image.   They take place over several days (3,5,7,or 9), during which the Most Blessed Sacrament is exposed and the Holy Rosary is recited.   Holy Mass is then celebrated by the spiritual director or by a priest invited specifically for the purpose.   The preaching on those days is normally linked to the titular images.   The ‘besamanos’ (hand-kissing) or ‘besapiés’ (foot-kissing) ceremony and the penitential procession also form part of these devotions.     Under the estatutes, ‘cultos’ may be internal (held inside the church), external (outside it, such as a procession or Vía Crucis), public (open to anyone wishing to attend) or private (restricted, such as the ‘besapiés’ ceremony of the Christ of Silence).

CUÑA.  A wooden piece placed at a ‘santero’’s position to raise his shoulder to the height of the tallest bearer, ensuring that every ‘santero’ reaches the carrying pole equally and that the weight is distributed evenly.  When it is more than 20 cm high, it is jokingly called ‘mesilla de noche’ (bedside table); it may even be fitted with a hinge so that it can be folded and does not obstruct the lowering of the throne.

CHILLÓN.   Popular name by which the Crucified of Mercy is known, also called the Camisitos.   The nickname comes from the continual squeaks and creaks formerly produced by its throne.

CHUPÓN.  A person attending a gathering of ‘santeros’ without belonging to the team.

DALMÁTICA.   A tunic with wide, short sleeves —or sleeveless— worn over the alb and forming the habit of the acolytes.

DE UN TIRÓN.   In a single action or effort.    In the language of ‘santeros’, this describes the ‘echá al hombro’ (liftting the throne to the shoulder) without using the customary three stages.

DEL PADRÓN.   Excellent.   In the language of the ‘santeros’, the expression is applied to a team or a ‘santería’.

DEL PINO.     A title added to the image of Christ carrying the Cross venerated in the Parish Church of El Carmen, formerly belonging to the archbrotherhood based there.  

DERRIBO.   Popular name by which the Nazarene of Passion, of the Holy Monday brotherhood, is known.   The name derives from the intention of the leaders of the now-defunct brotherhood to which it belonged to associate it with the building trade.

DESPEDIMIENTO.   A sculptural group based on Our Lord Jesus Christ taking leave of His Holy Mother before the beginning of the Passion, formerly belonging to the Franciscan Brotherhood of the Passion.

DESPOJADO DE SUS VESTIDURAS   A title added to the image of Christ in the sculptural group representing the preparations for the Crucifixion (stripped of His garments).  See Barrenillas.

DIADEMA.   A radiant ornament of precious metal placed over the temples of Sorrowful Virgins.   It consists of a burst of rays crowned by a cross.  See Glow.

DIMAS.   The Good Thief,  one of those crucified beside Jesus on Golgotha.  He is represented in the  Calvary group in the Church of St. Augustine.

DIOS PADRE.   Trinitarian hermitage  from which the Cofradía de la Santa Fe (Holy Faith Brotherhood) begins its penitential procession (Holy Thursday).

DIPUTADO.   See Consiliario.

DIRECTOR ESPIRITUAL.   An office on the Governing Board, generally held by the parish priest of the brotherhood’s canonical seat, responsible for safeguarding matters of faith and morals and the Christian life of the brotherhood and its members.

DIVINO CONSUELO.   Title of the Dolorosa who is the Titular Image of the Brotherhood of the Sacred Encounter.

DOBLETE.   When a ‘santero’ carries  more than one sacred image during the same Holy Week.

DOLORES.     Title of the Dolorosa who is the Titular Image of the Servite Brotherhood.  2   The dedication of the Sorrowful Virgin who accompanies Our Father Jesus on His entry into Jerusalem.   3   The dedication  of the Sorrowful Virgin presiding over the high altar of the Church of St. Martin of the Augustinian Sisters.

DOLORES DE MARÍA.    Sorrowful Virgins are sometimes adorned with a heart on the breast pierced by one dagger—or seven—in remembrance of the Sorrows suffered by the Most Holy Virgin Mary.   They are:   1st. The prophecy of the aged Simeon.  2nd.  The flight into Egypt.  3rd.  The loss of the Child Jesus.   4th.  The Scourging of Christ.   5th.  The encounter on the Via Dolorosa.   6th.   The Crucifixion.   7th.  The dead Christ in Her arms.

DOLOROSA.  An image  of the most Holy Virgin expressing grief and sorrow at the Passion and Death of Her Son.

PASSION SUNDAY.   The one before Palm Sunday.

PALM SUNDAY.   First day of Holy Week.   The Pollinita, Agony in the Garden and Sacred Encounter brotherhoods  hold their penitential processions on this day.

EASTER SUNDAY.   The day commemorating the glorious Resurrection of the Saviour.   The Brotherhood of the Risen Christ holds its penitential procession on this day.

DOSEL.   A fixed or removable architectural structure or hanging which shelters the altar containing a sacred image like a canopy, falling behind the image like a backdrop or curtain.

ECCE HOMO.    The title of the image of Christ Crowned with Thorns venerated in the Church of St John the Baptist.    Also known as Christ of Health.

ECHÁ AL HOMBRO.   The action of raising the throne to the ‘santeros’ shoulders, either in three stages or directly from the ground ‘de un tirón’ (in one movement).

ENTRE CORNETAS Y TAMBORES.   A radio programme about brotherhood life and the world of the ‘santeros’, broadcast by Radio Lucena in 1986 and 1987.

ESCANTILLÓN.   Marker squad.   2   A ruler, template or pattern incorporating that measurement, used by some ‘santeros’ to check the height of their wedge.

ESCAPARATE.   The name given to the front ends of the carrying poles and the front corner  bearers.

ESCUDO.  The heraldic emblem  representing a brotherhood.   It is composed of symbols representing its titular images and dedications.

ESCULTOR IMAGINERO.   A person devoted to the difficult and painstaking art of carving sacred images in wood, which are subsequently polychromed.

ESQUINA DE LA SALUD.  The rear corner on the right-hand side of the throne, diagonally opposite the left corner.  2  The corner bearer at this position  is also  called the ‘esquinero de la salud’.   3  By extension, the ‘santeros’ forming this corner.

ESQUINA DEL MANIJERO.  The front right-hand corner of the throne, occupied by the ‘manijero’ and diagonally opposite the bad corner   2  By extension, the ‘santeros’ forming this corner.

ESQUINA  IZQUIERDA.  The front left-hand corner of the throne, diagonally opposite the ‘manijero’s’ corner.  2   The corner bearer at this position is also called the left corner bearer.   3  By extension, the ‘santeros’ forming this corner.

ESQUINA MALA.   The rear  left-hand corner of the throne, opposite the ‘esquina del manijero’ (manijero’s corner)   2   The bearer at the bad corner.   3   By extension, the ‘santeros’ forming this corner.

ESQUINERO.   A ‘santero’ whose position is at one of the four corners of the throne.   A throne has four corners, which give their names to the corner bearers: the manijero’s corner (‘esquina de manijero’), thebad corner (‘esquina mala’), theleft corner (‘esquina izquierda’) and the health corner (‘esquina de la salud’).   Their names have their origins in the earliest days of the ‘santería’.   The ‘cuadrilleros’ were the wealthy  landowners of the town and entrusted the leadership of the team to their foremen or ‘manijeros’, who were men they trusted.   The corner occuppied by the latter was therefore called  ‘esquina del manijero’.   The name ‘esquina mala’ may have two explanations.   First, because it is furthest from the bell  and therefore receives and hears the manijero’s instructions with greater difficulty.   Second, because the ‘manijero’ generally surrounded himself with men of great strength and ability, which in the old ‘santerías de contras’could place the bad corner at a disadvantage.   The left corner is so called because of its position on the throne.   The ‘esquina de la salud’  is on the same side as the ‘manijero’ and can therefore receive his instructions more easily.

ESTACIÓN.   Any of the fourteen stations of the Via Crucis.           

ESTACIÓN DE PENITENCIA.  A brotherhood’s penitential procession accompanying its titular images..

¿ESTÁIS? … ¡PUESTOS!   Before the throne is lifted to the shoulder (‘echá’), the ‘manijero’ calls out  ‘¿estáis? (Are you ready?), 

asking whether the team is prepared to obey his command, after checking that everything is in order, the bad-corner bearer replies ‘¡puestos!’ (Ready!).  The ‘manijero’ then orders the throne to be lifted to the shoulder (‘echá’) either in three stages or in one movement (‘de un tirón’).

ESTAMPA.  A small lithographic reproduction of a titular image, distributed at hand- or foot-kissing ceremonies to promote devotion.

ESTANDARTE.  An insignia consisting of a tall pole  and a crossbar from which a cloth hangs, bearing at its centre the brotherhood’s emblem or a portrait of its titular image.

ESTATUTOS.   The rules and regulations governing a brotherhood with the force of law, which must be approved by the prelate.

ESTRELLA.   The dedication of the Sorrowful Virgin presiding over the high altar of the Chapel of God the Father

ESTRENARSE.     For a ‘santero’ to take part in his first ‘santería’.

EXPIACIÓN.   The dedication of the Crucified Christ located in the choir of the Church of St Augustine.

FAJA.   A strip of cotton cloth approximately two and a half metres long, wrapped around the santero’s waist over his shirt to protect  his kidneys and lower back from the weight of the throne.

FAJAR.   To fit and taighten the ‘faja’ (sash) around the waist.

FAJÍN.  A fabric band worn around the waist of a ‘nazareno’ to fasten the tunic.   2  A band of fine fabric or embroidered velvet worn around the waist of the tunic or skirt of an image of Christ or the Virgin.

FAJÍN DE HEBREO.  A brightly striped fabric band placed around the waist to fasten the skirt of a Sorrowful Virgin dressed in the Hebrew style, or the tunic of certain images of Christ.

FAJÍN MILITAR.   A sash presentid by a senior military officer to a Sorrowful Virgin and worn over Her skirt.   In Lucena, the only example is that of the Virgin of Divine Consolation.