Viva Mãe Soberana!  Viva  Mãe Soberana!

An emotional day in Loulé, last Sunday, celebrating the festival of Mae Soberana. 

Arriving early

I approach the dais

As close as I can get

The arrival of the priests

The ceremony begins

Peace be with you, young Skywalker?

The scouts link hands

Hoisted onto shoulders

Down into the waiting crowd

Parading through the streets

Expectant crowd

An image for posterity

Swift stepping marching girls

Followed by the band

The Senhora arrives at the church square

The crowd look on, and cheer

Peace at last

The sun sets on the Sanctuarium

For 15 years I’ve wanted to be a part of this ceremony.  The captions tell part of the story, but it’s a memory I hope will stay with me forever.

Impossible to share in Six Words, but I tried.  Viva Mãe Soberana!  Wishing you all a peaceful weekend.