CITY OF MEXICO Repairing them could be more expensive than purchasing new ones. In January, however, a section of downtown Mexico City is crowded with people who have broken religious statues in search of a workshop for hands, legs, noses, eyes, eyelashes, or fingers since baby Jesus figures hold such sentimental importance for families.
In time for Candlemas on February 2, the Catholic holiday that concludes Christmas celebrations and honors the purification of the Virgin Mary and the presenting of Jesus at the temple, Mexicans repair their baby Jesus statues.
Plaster figurines frequently lose a hand, a nose, a finger, or even their entire head from year to year. Because the figure was a gift or has been with them for years, some people choose to preserve it rather than replace it.
It is less expensive to purchase one, but the reason you have it is more about the one you were given than the one you purchased. Mar a Snchez Arena, 61, who assists in restoring baby Jesus statues during this time of year, said nothing more.
Mexicans take the figurines to church to be blessed on Candlemas, and they frequently keep them in Nativity scenes that are on display in their homes during the Christmas season.
The Associated Press
