Sun, Mar 24
|Martha Liebert Public Library
Penitentes of NM with Ray John De Aragon
The Penitentes of New Mexico have long been a source of mystery and curiosity along with misconceptions and sensationalism. Aragon will clarify the role of the Penitentes in the state’s Hispanic culture and in New Mexican history.
Time & Location
Mar 24, 2024, 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Martha Liebert Public Library, 124 Calle Malinche, Bernalillo, NM 87004, USA
About the event
The Penitentes of New Mexico have long been a source of mystery and curiosity along with misconceptions and sensationalism. To better understand the Hermanos de La Luz (Brothers of the Light) and their spiritual devotion, Ray John Aragon will consider the role of the santeros, carvers of sacred images, along with the unique ablados (hymns) and the role of the Brotherhood in rural Hispanic communities. Their traditions have been passed down through the generations and captured in Aragon’s book. During the lecture, Aragon will clarify the role of the Penitentes in the state’s Hispanic culture and in New Mexican history.
Ray John de Aragon is a bilingual author of 32 books of fiction and non-fiction focused on the Spanish heritage and culture in New Mexico. Throughout his career as a writer and speaker, he has often selected controversial subjects. By relating his personal experiences growing up in a Hispanic family in Las Vegas, New Mexico, he has provided new insights and perspectives that he backs with in-depth research. As a result, he has challenged and changed old views and misconceptions. Aragon has received two degrees from the University of New Mexico and numerous awards. He has appeared on nationally syndicated radio and television talk shows plus Univision and Telemundo.and is currently working on a new book.