Archdiocese of Puebla apology over México Monumental event, Digi Mart USA News (Puebla, Mexico): The Archdiocese of Puebla has apologized to people who felt hurt in their faith or experienced confusion following the “México Monumental” event held on November 5 at the Puebla Cathedral.
In a statement, the religious institution explained that the gathering included exhibitions of historic liturgical vestments, pieces made by Puebla artisans and contemporary bridal wear. It said each presentation was accompanied by catechetical explanations of the religious meaning of the garments.
According to the institution, the program featured a display of original liturgical vestments from the historic and cultural collection of the Archdiocese of Puebla. Among the pieces shown were cloaks, chasubles and stoles, garments used by clergy in various Catholic celebrations.
The program also presented work by artisans from San Andrés Hueyapan in the Sierra Norte of Puebla, who make liturgical vestments used by priests during religious ceremonies in indigenous communities. An exhibition of contemporary Mexican bridal wear, linked to the sacrament of marriage, was also included.
According to the statement, the displays were accompanied by musical performances on the cathedral’s monumental organ, played by its titular organist, as well as soprano performances and a concert by the BUAP Symphony Orchestra and Symphonic Choir.
The institution said each display was accompanied by catechesis on the importance, dignity and sacred character of the vestments used in Catholic sacraments. The explanations addressed both the attire of priests and that of couples taking part in the marriage ceremony.
To support the purpose of these activities, the Archdiocese cited paragraph 1145 of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, which concerns the use of signs and symbols in sacramental celebrations.
In its position, the Archdiocese said the presentation of the vestments sought to explain their spiritual meaning and did not promote luxury or ostentation. It also argued that the beauty, cleanliness and decorum of these garments are among the elements that, within Catholic tradition, express the solemnity of religious celebrations.
After apologizing for any inconvenience that may have resulted from “México Monumental,” the Archdiocese said it intends to continue seeking ways to preserve the sacred character of its churches.
