This year, the traditional Passion of Christ in Iztapalapa, an emblematic Holy Week representation in Mexico City with over 180 years of history, will be led by a surgeon and UNAM graduate. Arnulfo Eduardo Morales Galicia, a 25-year-old from the San Lucas neighborhood, was chosen to portray Jesus of Nazareth in the 183rd edition of this religious and cultural performance, considered Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. A tradition with deep meaning The Passion of Christ in Iztapalapa is held every Holy Week and faithfully follows the passages of the life, trial, crucifixion, and resurrection of Jesus. This representation involves hundreds of people from the eight original neighborhoods of the borough and attracts millions of national and international spectators during the celebration days. It mainly takes place on Good Friday, when the Via Crucis procession departs from the streets of Iztapalapa to the Cerro de la Estrella, imitating Jesus's journey to Calvary. The event is so significant that in 2025 it was recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, reinforcing its cultural, historical, and religious importance. How was he chosen? To assume the role of Jesus, Arnulfo Morales had to go through a rigorous selection process that included physical and social evaluations, as well as meeting the requirements set by the Via Crucis organization. One of the most demanding challenges for the person portraying Christ is to drag and carry a cross of approximately 90 to 100 kilograms during the procession. Applicants must be from the borough and demonstrate commitment and previous experience in performing the Passion. Finally, the choice falls to the event coordinators and neighborhood leaders, who seek to ensure that the protagonist can convey the devotion and solemnity that the representation requires. “I have the honor, the blessing, and the joy of representing the most important man” ✝️✨ Arnulfo Morales Galicia, 25 years old, a surgeon from the San Lucas neighborhood, will be Christ in the traditional representation in #Iztapalapa this year. #holyweek #lent Pride and community commitment Arnulfo has been linked to the Via Crucis since he was young: he started participating as a drummer boy, then as an apostle and priest in previous editions, until reaching this leading role that he describes as a source of pride and a profound responsibility. Alongside him, Erika Yasmín Morales Hernández will portray the Virgin Mary, a role that also involves a strong emotional burden when representing a mother's pain at her son's crucifixion.
