Award: Third Prize

Time: October, 2004 - March, 2005
Place: Mexico

Jose Fidencio Sintora Constantino was a traditional healer who cured ailments large and small by using mystical powers. By the time he reached his 20s, thousands of people had come to see Espinazo, drinking his healing potions and allowing him to lay his hands upon them. At the age of 40, he was Mexico 's most-famous herbal healer.

Today, scores of healers have carried on the tradition of the young Fidencio, claiming to have channeled the same healing power he tapped into 100 years earlier. For about five days every October and March, the town of Espinazo fills with pilgrims who come from all over Mexico and the United States to pay tribute to and feel the lasting power and influence of Fidencio.

Most of the faithful head in massive groups to his grave, and some arrive crawling on their knees in penitence. Nearby, in the Espinazo center square, is a small, shallow fountain filled with muddy water. As mandated by tradition, thousands of the faithful line up to bathe in the fountain, submerging themselves in its water known as the "Charquito," or "Puddle." Some fill small bottles with its water, which they take away with them. Also popular with pilgrims is a nearby hill known as La Campana, "The Bell," where the faithful go to pray or seek the services of modern-day herb healers.

The cult of young Fidencio is a religious and cultural phenomenon that began in the early years of the previous century and continues to be an important mystical experience for thousands, especially those in northern Mexico and the southeastern United States .