The “Mayan Rite” Controversy: Local, Cultural Context
Chiapas is a region unlike the rest of Mexico.
Above: the Usumacinta River in the state of Chiapas, southern Mexico. With the dust settling around the “Mayan Rite” controversy, we can now examine the issue thoughtfully. This topic is inherently sensitive, so it’s essential to tread carefully. Opinions have ranged widely: some attack anything originating from the Vatican—sometimes to generate profit—while others defend Church…