Statues of Christ being carried by priests parading in ceremonial clothing. Ancient icons and relics being brought from distant places so that the worshippers can touch and be healed by their spiritual powers. These and similar aspects of religious belief are being emphasized in a stronger way in mexico these days, with the panic and fear of Swine Flu overtaking both the educated and uneducated classes.

Some statues as old as four centuries have been brought back from church vaults and treasuries to provide healing to the stricken, and to protect to the healthy from being afflicted with the disease.

Mexicans can seek comfort in their religious beliefs in these testing times. And for those who don’t lack beliefs, the only option is apathy, according to the faithful. Photos from www.flickr.com/photos/2rokbotoy.