The history of the construction of the Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus starts from the day the Spanish conqueror Francisco de Ibarra founded the Villa de San Juan Bautista de Carapoa on June 24, 1564 ordering to build a church that was made as provisional.
The Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus was finished in 1804 in front of the Plaza de Armas, but with a wooden roof and terrace and without the tower. It was not finished until 1889 with the complete tower and vaulted roof.
The history of the Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is closely linked to that of the municipality. Its parish archive provides an efficient service both to believers in religious ceremonies and in issuing documents of baptism, marriage, or death records, which are of great value for legal procedures before government authorities, as well as to researchers seeking information about people or significant events in the life of the parish.
The Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus was completed in 1804, but with a wooden roof and terrace and without the tower.
Some books in the archive record, apart from the religious work and constructions, those events that impacted the communities, or the most outstanding religious celebrations; the activities of religious groups with specific missions… In these documents we find, well, much of the history of the municipality. I found that municipal authorities and the church, jointly celebrated the first centennial of the Independence of Mexico at the initiative of President Porfirio Diaz.
Daily services at the Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus
The tolling of the bells of the Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus announces and calls to the daily offices, but they also announce sad news -death-, or joyful -weddings, baptisms or first communions. Only the bells are silent on the days of the death of Jesus during Holy Week, resuming their tolling on the Saturday of glory. Many priests have officiated at its altar, from those described as folkloric or very popular anecdotes, such as Father Rafael Venegas, who liked to dress as a charro and ride a horse.
The sobriety and simplicity of its interior, with few images, invites reflection to parishioners and visitors.
During the Cristero era when the churches were closed by order of Plutarco Elias Calles, he did not resign himself and continued to officiate “at home”, that is why he was very loved and respected, forgiving his very human failings. Father José Trujillo Alcalá left a great mark as a good priest preaching by example with his serious and quiet character, and very respectful. He promoted sports among children and young people earning their affection and respect; he formed Soccer and Baseball teams and organized leagues constantly.
The Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, as an integral part of the Historic Center, is an architectural beauty that served as a fundamental piece to achieve the designation of Magical Town in July 2009.
Text: Prof. Ernesto Parra Flores
Chronicler of the City of El Fuerte, Sinaloa
Image Gallery
How was this tour made:
In night photography with artificial lights such as lamps, spotlights or flying buttresses, I use a very narrow aperture, f/11.
With this, I can bring out detail, as using an open aperture would “burn” the scene.
Use our photos
Our photos have “Creative Commons“ license. This license allows you to use our photos, without needing permission, legally. When using the photos, the only requirement is that you provide credit as follows:
“Photography: Miguel Angel Victoria / Sinaloa 360”
English translation made by María José Balcázar Gamboa, student at PrepaTec Campus Sinaloa. Tecnológico de Monterrey.
