Annually, during the month of October, a grand procession unfolds in Lima, Peru to commemorate a significant historical event: the aftermath of a life-altering earthquake that struck both Lima in the 17th century. The Señor de los Milagros, also known as the Lord of Miracles, is a revered representation of Jesus Christ, held in deep reverence in Lima.
The Señor de los Milagros procession in New York City mirrors the tradition in Lima. Following a mass held at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, women known as “Humadoras” play a special role by carrying incense in front of the altar. Their task is to purify the air as the procession moves forward, just as is done in the original Lima procession.