The traditional Procession of Senhor dos Milagres, one of Machico's most emblematic religious events, was at the center of a controversy 23 years ago. In its October 8, 2003 edition, DIÁRIO reported on the objections raised by the Municipal Chamber's decision to include the religious ceremony in the official program of the Council Festivities.
The night procession, with about two centuries of history, was scheduled for 8 PM, carrying the image of Senhor dos Milagres through the city streets by torchlight. The discord arose from a municipal information leaflet that integrated the procession into the municipal celebrations, which displeased a segment of the population.
Then-councillor Bernardo Martins wrote to the Bishop of Funchal, accusing the social-democratic majority of "unforgivable opportunism" and attempting a political appropriation of a religious event. The then Mayor, Emanuel Gomes, rejected any political exploitation, stating the inclusion was merely to "inform people that the procession takes place at that time."
