Mean piss chain and good Friday traditions piercing cactus in Atrexco, Mexico

Atlixco, Mexico (AP) – Every year, during Good Friday Catholic holidays, crowds witness the sight on the streets of Atrixco, a small town in central Mexico.

A group of half-naked men walked through the strenuous streets, covering the 70-pound chain and the arms and legs of the cactus. It is part of the town’s tradition, and participants say they are paying pen remorse for their sins.

But participation has declined in recent years, and this tradition once involved more than 100 people and only 35 people. It is larger than those who think themselves in the Latin American country.

Locals and organizers believe this is due to the loss of faith in young people, who think the practice is too arduous.

According to Mexico’s 2020 Census, the share of Mexicans has dropped from just over 90% to 78% since 1990.

“Young people, they are losing faith,” said Vicente Valbuena, 68, an Atlixco businessman. “And, there are huge physical casualties.”