The Ysleta Del Sur Pueblo, a vibrant and historically rich community also known as the Tigua Indians, is steeped in tradition and cultural heritage. As the sun nears its zenith on the calendar, anticipation builds within the Pueblo as they prepare to celebrate one of their most significant and cherished holidays: the Feast of St. Anthony. This annual observance is not merely a religious event; it is a profound expression of faith, history, and the enduring spirit of the Tigua people. This convergence of indigenous customs and Catholic traditions creates a unique tapestry that reflects the resilience and adaptability of this ancient community.
The Feast of St. Anthony holds a place of paramount importance within the cultural landscape of the Ysleta Del Sur Pueblo. This beloved saint has been a central figure in their spiritual life for over three centuries, his influence deeply interwoven with the fabric of their traditions. The integration of St. Anthony into the Pueblo’s existing spiritual practices speaks volumes about the adaptability and syncretism that have characterized their history. These Native American traditions stretch back to the 1200s. This blending of old and new, indigenous and Catholic, is what makes the Feast of St. Anthony such a distinctive and compelling event.
This year’s observance, set to commence on Friday, will follow the established traditions and liturgies that have defined the celebration for generations. These time-honored rituals serve as a living link to the past, connecting present-day members of the Pueblo with their ancestors and reaffirming their shared identity. The Feast of St. Anthony is more than just a religious ceremony; it is a powerful memorial, an opportunity for the Tigua people to honor their history, celebrate their culture, and strengthen their bonds as a community. Moreover, the Feast of St. Anthony is an event that holds an undeniable allure for those outside the Pueblo, offering a glimpse into a unique cultural expression.
Rick Quezada, the esteemed Tigua war captain, provides valuable insight into the significance and structure of the Feast of St. Anthony. According to Quezada, the observance is an all-encompassing, day-long affair that commences with a solemn Mass held within the hallowed walls of the Ysleta Mission. This spiritual beginning sets the tone for the day, preparing hearts and minds for the ceremonies and traditions that follow. The culmination of the day’s events is a grand feast, a celebration of community and abundance featuring a delectable array of traditional Tigua foods.
"This is probably the most observed religious ceremony that is recognized by the pueblo," Quezada explains, highlighting the central role the Feast of St. Anthony plays in the community’s spiritual life. He further elaborates on the saint’s significance, stating, "I guess St. Anthony is kind of compared to a creation story figure in our people." This comparison underscores the deep reverence and profound connection the Tigua people feel towards St. Anthony, viewing him as a pivotal figure who embodies guidance, protection, and spiritual strength.
St. Anthony’s prominence within the Tigua faith tradition stems from his reputation as a compassionate and benevolent figure, known for providing assistance to those who are lost, hungry, or in need of spiritual guidance. This aligns perfectly with the core values and beliefs of the Tigua people, who have always emphasized community support, generosity, and spiritual well-being. Before the arrival of Spanish conquistadors and the accompanying Catholic priests, the Tiguas practiced traditional corn dances in the Colorado region, a ritual that symbolized abundance, gratitude, and the interconnectedness of all living things.
With the introduction of Catholicism to the region, a fascinating synthesis occurred, merging the ancient corn dance tradition with the Catholic feast day of St. Anthony. This blending of cultures and beliefs resulted in a unique expression of faith, one that honors both the ancestral traditions of the Tigua people and the teachings of the Catholic Church. The Ysleta Del Sur Pueblo embraced the new faith. This integration demonstrates the Pueblo’s ability to adapt and evolve while retaining its unique identity and cultural heritage.
One of the most distinctive and intriguing aspects of the Feast of St. Anthony celebration is the willow whipping ceremony. This ritual, conducted in private after the traditional Mass, holds deep spiritual significance for the Tigua people. The whipping with willow branches is not intended as a form of punishment but rather as a symbolic cleansing of sins, a way for individuals to atone for past transgressions and reaffirm their spiritual promises.
Quezada explains the significance of the ritual: "The people praying for promises from St. Anthony, they get whipped at the door of the church." This act represents a purification of the soul, a shedding of negativity, and a renewed commitment to living a life of virtue and faith. The willow, a tree often associated with healing and resilience, is carefully chosen for its symbolic properties, further emphasizing the restorative nature of the ceremony.
Following the willow whipping, the community embarks on a procession around the Ysleta Mission, carrying a statue of St. Anthony with reverence and respect. This public display of faith allows the entire community to participate in honoring their patron saint and reaffirming their shared beliefs. The procession culminates at the Tusla, the traditional meeting grounds of the Pueblo, where the highly anticipated feast takes place.
The feast is a vibrant celebration of community and abundance, featuring a carefully curated menu of traditional Tigua dishes. Among the culinary delights is a hearty red chili stew, simmered to perfection and filled with tender meatballs, a dish that warms both the body and the soul. Indian bread soup, a comforting and flavorful broth infused with the taste of traditional Indian bread, is another staple of the feast. The menu also includes freshly baked Indian bread, a symbol of sustenance and nourishment, and traditional biscocho cookies, sweet treats that represent the joy and sweetness of life.
"It’s very fascinating," Quezada remarks, encapsulating the unique blend of tradition, spirituality, and community that defines the Feast of St. Anthony. The Ysleta Del Sur Pueblo extends this fascinating experience to the public. The event serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring strength and resilience of the Tigua people, their unwavering commitment to preserving their cultural heritage, and their ability to adapt and thrive in a constantly changing world.