Who Is The Patron Saint Of Puerto Rico

Contents

1 Fiestas patronales in Puerto Rico – Wikipedia
2 Contents
3 Schedule of fiestas patronales
4 See also
5 External links
6 Patron Saint Festivals in Puerto Rico is a Cultural Immersion
7 The Festival of St. John the Baptist in Puerto Rico
8 Where
9 When
10 What
11 Why
12 San Juan’s Festival of Saint John the Baptist
13 Puerto Rico’s Festivals
14 Festivities of St. James, The Apostle, Held at the Town of Loiza in Puerto Rico
15 Our Lady of Providence, Patron Saint of Puerto Rico
16 ‘Our Lady Of Divine Providence’ Protects Puerto Rico
- 16.1 Our Lady Of Divine Providence Patroness Of Puerto Rico
17 History
18 Patron Saint Festivals

Fiestas patronales in Puerto Rico – Wikipedia

Every town has a patron saint, or patron saints. The Virgin of Guadalupe, Ponce de Leon’s patron saint, is seen above. Fiestas patronales (patronal festivals) in Puerto Rico are conducted once a year in each municipality on the island. “Fiestas patronales,” as they are known in other countries, are greatly inspired by Spanish culture and religion, and are devoted to a saint or virgin, like in Spain. Religious processions in recognition of the city’s Catholic past are a regular feature of the celebrations.

Parades, games, artists, amusement rides, regional food, and live entertainment are also part of the festivities.

1See also: Calendar of patronal fiestas
2See also: a list of references
A list of external connections

Schedule of fiestas patronales

San Antonio de Paduain Guayama Patron saint celebration in Vieques Fiestas Patronales de San Antonio de Paduain Guayama

Date	Town	Patron saint
January 9	Corozal	Holy Family
January 17	Añasco	Saint Anthony
January 20	San Sebastián	Saint Sebastian
February 2	Coamo	Virgin of Candelaria
February 2	Lajas	Virgin of Candelaria
February 2	Manatí	Virgin of Candelaria
February 2	Mayagüez	Virgin of Candelaria
February 3	Coamo	Saint Blaise
March 17	Loíza Aldea	Saint Patrick
March 19	Ciales	Saint Joseph
March 19	Gurabo	Saint Joseph
March 19	Lares	Saint Joseph
March 19	Luquillo	Saint Joseph
March 19	Peñuelas	Saint Joseph
March 31	Patillas	Saint Benedict
April 29	Guaynabo	Saint Peter Martyr
May 1	Arecibo	Saint Philip the Apostle
May 3	Bayamón	True Cross
May 3	Trujillo Alto	True Cross
May 15	Maunabo	Saint Isidore
May 15	Sabana Grande	Saint Isidore the Laborer
May 30	Carolina	Saint Ferdinand
May 30	Toa Alta	Saint Ferdinand
June 13	Barranquitas	Saint Anthony of Padua
June 13	Ceiba	Saint Anthony of Padua
June 13	Dorado	Saint Anthony of Padua
June 13	Guayama	Saint Anthony of Padua
June 13	Isabela	Saint Anthony of Padua
June 24	Maricao	Saint John the Baptist
June 24	Orocovis	Saint John the Baptist
June 24	San Juan	Saint John the Baptist
June 30	Toa Baja	Saint Peter
July 16	Arroyo	Our Lady of Mount Carmel
July 16	Barceloneta	Our Lady of Mount Carmel
July 16	Cataño	Our Lady of Mount Carmel
July 16	Cidra	Our Lady of Mount Carmel
July 16	Culebra	Our Lady of Mount Carmel
July 16	Hatillo	Our Lady of Mount Carmel
July 16	Morovis	Our Lady of Mount Carmel
July 16	Río Grande	Our Lady of Mount Carmel
July 16	Villalba	Our Lady of Mount Carmel
July 25	Aibonito	James the Apostle
July 25	Fajardo	James the Apostle
July 25	Guánica	James the Apostle
July 25	Loíza Aldea	James the Apostle
July 25	Santa Isabel	James the Apostle
July 31	San Germán	Saint Germain
August 6	Comerío	Holy Christ of Health
August 10	San Lorenzo	Saint Lawrence
August 15	Cayey	Our Lady of the Assumption
August 21	Adjuntas	Saint JoachimSaint Anne
August 30	Rincón	Saint Rose of Lima
August 31	Juana Díaz	Saint Raymond Nonnatus
September 8	Aguas Buenas	Our Lady of Montserrat
September 8	Hormigueros	Our Lady of Montserrat
September 8	Jayuya	Our Lady of Montserrat
September 8	Moca	Our Lady of Montserrat
September 8	Salinas	Our Lady of Montserrat
September 29	Cabo Rojo	Saint Michael the Archangel
September 29	Naranjito	Saint Michael the Archangel
September 29	Utuado	Saint Michael the Archangel
October 2	Yabucoa	Custodian Angels
October 4	Aguada	Saint Francis of Assisi
October 7	Naguabo	Our Lady of the Rosary
October 7	Vega Baja	Our Lady of the Rosary
October 7	Yauco	Our Lady of the Rosary
October 12	Canóvanas	Our Lady of the Pillar
October 12	Río Piedras	Our Lady of the Pillar
October 24	Quebradillas	Saint Raphael Archangel
November 4	Aguadilla	Saint Charles Borromeo
December 8	Guayanilla	The Immaculate Conception of Mary
December 8	Humacao	The Immaculate Conception of Mary
December 8	Juncos	The Immaculate Conception of Mary
December 8	Las Marías	The Immaculate Conception of Mary
December 8	Las Piedras	The Immaculate Conception of Mary
December 8	Vega Alta	The Immaculate Conception of Mary
December 8	Vieques	The Immaculate Conception of Mary
December 12	Ponce	Our Lady of Guadalupe

External links

The Iconography of Puerto RicanSantos

Doreen M. Col�n Camacho Director, Department of Education, Museo de Arte de Puerto RicoSan Juan, Puerto Rico

One of the more interesting topics in exploringsantosis their iconography, the study of the symbols that make up an image or an ensemble of images.An iconographic study identifies symbolic forms such as attributes and signs such as clothing, posture, and context, which establish the identity, context, and history of asanto.Iconographic studies can establish direct links between the wayssantoswere venerated and represented in Europe and in Puerto Rico, where iconographic motifs were not merely repeated:the island�s people proceeded to create their own interpretations.

The Holy Trinity In Puerto Ricansantos,the Holy Trinity is represented in various ways.The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit may be presented as identical figures standing on a common horizontal base, or in a triangular composition as a white dove between two male figures.The Father may be bearded and the Son beardless, or the Father�s beard may be white, the Son�s dark.The dove of the Holy Spirit may be mounted above a column, on a piece of wire, or on a cross interposed between the two male figures.

The Virgin The varied representations of the Virgin can be divided into three main iconographic motifs:the Virgin enthroned, the standing Virgin with Child, and the standing Virgin without Child.The favorite Puerto Rican images are the Virgin of Monserrat, the Virgin of Hormigueros, Our Lady of Mount Carmel, the Virgin of the Three Kings, Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Our Lady of Candlemas, Our Lady of the Pillar, Our Lady of the Rosary, Our Lady of Sorrows, Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal, and the Immaculate Conception.

Saint Anthony of Padua In Puerto Rico, Saint Anthony (early 13th century) is taken to be the patron of lost objects and of things that are hoped for.The color of his habit may vary from light blue, to dark blue, green, brown, or black.Historian Arturo D�vila explains that the Franciscans who came to the island in the 17th century wore blue habits in honor of the Immaculate Mother, but later adopted brown habits.Saint Anthony is the patron saint of the towns of Ceiba, Dorado, Guayama, and Isabela.

Saint Barbara Persecuted for her conversion to Christianity, Barbara was imprisoned by her father in a tower.Upon her release, her father was killed by lightning.Accordingly, Saint Barbara protects against sudden death by lightning, cannon fire, or mine collapses, and she became the patron saint of miners and gunners.Her attribute is a tower.Legends of Barbara date from the 7th century, but she was removed from the liturgical calendar in 1969.

Saint Blaise Saint Blaise (4th century), who is shown with a small beard and mustache, usually carries a pastoral staff and wears a red and yellow miter or a red tippet (or scarf) instead of a miter, a white alb, a black cassock, and black shoes.Teodoro Vidal confirms that devotion to Saint Blaise as the patron saint for afflictions of the throat observed in Puerto Rico.The town of Coamo, founded in 1579 with the name ofSan Blas de Illesca,is the only town on the island that celebrates patron saint festivities in honor of this saint.

Saint Joseph In Puerto Rico, Saint Joseph is considered the patron saint of carpenters and of those on their deathbed. Saint Joseph is mostly represented as a devotional figure, relatively young, with a beard and long hair, dressed in a tunic, and holding the child Jesus and a flowered staff.Saint Joseph is the patron saint of the towns of Aibonito, Camuy, Gurabo, Lares, Luquillo, and Pe�uelas.

Saint Raymond Nonnatus Saint Raymond (13th century) is considered the patron and protector of pregnant women, women in labor, midwives, and the newborn, and has enjoyed great devotion on the island.He is depicted in ecclesiastical vestments, with a red tippet (stole) adorned with golden trimmings on the collar and purls (looped edges) that simulate lace.Underneath he wears a white rochet (surplice), also with golden trimmings on the sleeves and simulated lace in the lower part.He also wears a red alb (vestment) and black shoes, which are simulated through half-moon incisions in the lower part of the alb.The town of Juana D�az always dedicates its festivities to Saint Raymond Nonnatus.

The Three Kings Devotion to the Three Kings in Puerto Rico came about through several centuries of popularity of the Feast of the Epiphany, January 6th.Traditionally, the Three Kings are portrayed to reflect diverse origins, from different points on earth.In Europe, the Three Kings were shown as being of different races:black (Balthazar), white (Melchior), and oriental (Gaspar).They were also seen as symbols for the three ages of humanity:youth (Gaspar), adulthood (Balthazar), and old age (Melchior).It is interesting to find that in Puerto Rican tradition, Melchior is the �Moorish� king, or the one with a dark complexion, while Balthazar has white hair and beard, and Gaspar is a beardless youth. The numerous carvings of the Three Kings fall into two strongly devotional iconographic types and a third more narrative, historical type.The devotional compositions present the Three Kings standing or on horseback, facing the devotee.The figures are placed horizontally on a common base, shoulder to shoulder, and they may or may not be differentiated by physical traits such as skin color or beards, their dress, or their gifts.The narrative, historical composition also depicts the Three Kings on horseback, but sideways in three-quarter profile, looking toward the star of Bethlehem, to which the leading king points with his right hand. Today, the celebration of Three Kings Day is a feast day for Puerto Rican reaffirmation, also commemorated in New York City, Chicago, Hawaii, and Alaska, where there are large numbers of Puerto Ricans.The Three Kings, transformed from their original religious meaning, personify theprincipal ethnic components of Puerto Rican identity:Indian, African, and European.

Saint Rita of Cassia In Puerto Rico and in other countries, Saint Rita (1381�1457) enjoys great devotion and is considered the patron saint and advocate of marriages and of difficult cases, due to the patience with which she bore her husband�s ill treatment until his death.She is depicted with a drop of blood on her forehead from an unhealed wound made by a crown of thorns while she was at prayer before a crucifix.Another miracle tells of the apparition of a rose or figs in her garden, in the middle of winter, on the day she died.

Saint Roch Saint Roch, a French nobleman, gave away his wealth and set out on a pilgrimage in the 1300s, healing plague victims by making the sign of the cross.Iconographically, he is dressed as a nobleman, but his broad-rimmed hat is trimmed with keys (attributes of a pilgrim to Rome) and the Holy Face (attribute of a pilgrim to Jerusalem).When Saint Roch himself was stricken with plague, a dog brought him food; therefore his personal attribute is a dog with bread in its mouth.Occasionally the angel who miraculously healed him is depicted.In Puerto Rico, he wears a tunic raised to show his left knee�a reference to an ulcer on his leg, caused by the plague.

Saint Ursula and the Eleven Thousand Virgins The Christian Ursula and her retinue were killed by the arrows of Huns in the year 451�an improbable Medieval legend seemingly unlinked to Puerto Rico.But, according to the scholar Yvonne Lange, devotion to Saint Ursula developed when the English attacked the island in April 1797.The Bishop of San Juan organized a procession dedicated to her. At night, men, women, and children, all holding candles, moved through the streets.The English, seeing the lights, thought that the Spanish had received reinforcements and abandoned trying to take the city.Saint Ursula holds the palm of martyrdom in some cases, as her only attribute, although in the European tradition she is depicted with an arrow.Now removed from the liturgical calendar, she was considered the patron saint of chastity, marriage, and teachers, and was invoked in times of plague.

Anima Sola The unique and curious motif of the “Anima Sola� represents a particularly interesting devotion. The souls in Purgatory are personified through the image of semi-naked long-haired woman enveloped in flames and posed in prayer.The flames, carved in relief, seem to form a skirt around her lower body, while her hair or flames cover her naked upper body.Even though she may be considered a sinner, she is taken as an intercessor for devotees.

The Three Marys The Three Marys�Mary Magdalene, Mary of Cleophas, and the Blessed Virgin Mary�have been collectively venerated in Puerto Rico.They are usually represented as three identical female figures placed horizontally on a common base.Puerto Rican devotees have associated this theme with the theme of the Three Kings, which is an anachronism, both in religious and historical terms.

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Patron Saint Festivals in Puerto Rico is a Cultural Immersion

This summer, taking part in Patron Saint Festivals, also known as fiestas patronales, can be a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in Puerto Rico’s vibrant culture. Because around 85 percent of the county’s citizens are Roman Catholic, religion plays an important role in the lives of the people who live there. As a result, each area or town has a patron saint, who is celebrated annually at a festival in his or her honor. Attendees of one of these events will be entertained in the town’s center square, which will have lots of food and drink, as well as music, games, and a religious procession, among other activities.

For example, the Virgen del Carmen has been designated as the patron saint of nine separate municipalities on the island.
Travelers that choose to visit areas such as Arroyo, Aguadilla, Villalba, Cidra, Culebra, or Barceloneta during this time period will have the opportunity to take part in the many activities that will be taking place.
The next day, on July 16, they will gather in the plaza and march to the sea in a religious procession.
Every year on July 25, the Catholic Church commemorates the life and death of this apostle and martyr.
John the Apostle was brought to Puerto Rico by the Spanish conquistadors in the 1500s, tourists who have the opportunity to see this celebration will realize that it is still very much alive today.
Locals participate in religious activities as well as a carnival celebration throughout this time period.
Travelers who are unable to visit Puerto Rico this summer, however, will not be denied the opportunity to partake in all of the festivities.

Throughout the year, festivities honoring patron saints are held all around the island. Visitors who prepare ahead of time will be less likely to miss one of the many events taking place throughout the year.

The Festival of St. John the Baptist in Puerto Rico

In Puerto Rico, the Festival of St. John the Baptist is celebrated (Photo:) On the island of Puerto Rico, Catholic festivals are held in honor of the patron saints of several towns and villages. Although the saint in issue may be the patron saint of only a few communities on the island, these feast days, known as fiestas patronales, are celebrated across the country. The Festival of St. John commemorates San Juan Bautistata, the patron saint of San Juan, and is celebrated all across the island, starting in the city and spreading all the way to the other end.

Where

St. John is the patron saint of Maricao, Orocovis, and San Juan, although the entire island participates in this event, which takes place on the beach and lasts for many days. The major event takes place immediately after midnight on the first day of the festival, following the first day of the festival. The beaches of San Juan, Condado, Isla Verde, Ocean Park, and Escambron are the most popular places for people to congregate.

When

Despite the fact that St. John’s formal birthday is on June 24, the feast continues for many days after that day. After the clock strikes midnight on the morning of June 25, the climax of the celebration begins as individuals walk backward into the sea and dive headfirst into the very cold water below.

What

Enjoy a parade, a dance, or a concert as part of the festival’s festivities. Despite the fact that the events are of a religious character, everyone is invited to join. You may bring your own picnic or eat some of the delicious street cuisine available on the island. Crafts and amusement rides are also readily accessible in a variety of forms. As the clock strikes twelve, everyone gathered at the water’s edge descends into the water three times and then backs up into it.

Why

St. John the Baptist was a precursor to Jesus, preaching a message of repentance in the first century. Converts might indicate they had accepted his message and were willing to repent by being baptized. John performed this by sinking the convert into the Jordan River, on his back, three times to represent the washing away of sins and a new life upon rising from the river. This is the origin of the water custom at the Festival of St. John, while secular Puerto Ricans think the practice provides good luck for the next year.

San Juan’s Festival of Saint John the Baptist

When it comes to preaching the message of repentance in the first century, St. John the Baptist is considered a predecessor to Jesus. It was possible for converts to demonstrate that they had heard his message and were prepared to repent by getting baptized. As a symbol of the washing away of sins and the beginning of a new life, John lowered the convert into the Jordan River three times on his back, symbolizing the washing away of sins and the beginning of a new life upon emerging from the water.

John dates back to this time period, secular Puerto Ricans believe that the practice brings good fortune for the next year.

She also creates screenplays for short and feature films, as well as for television.

Puerto Rico’s Festivals

Every year, in honor of the town’s patron saint, fiestas patronales (patron saint festivals) are held in honor of the town’s patron saint. Religiousprocessions are included in the celebrations since they are based on a Catholic custom that began centuries ago. They have, however, incorporated additional aspects of African and local provenance into their designs. These festivals, which are usually held in the town square, are vibrant displays of community pride and joy, complete with parades, games, rides, regional food, and live entertainment.

The celebrations will take place over a ten-day period, beginning on the date specified, with events taking place in the evenings on weekdays and all day on weekends.

The Patronal Festivals of the Sagrada Familia take place in January. Corozal’s Patronal Fiestas de San Antonio Abad are held in January. December
Patronal Festivals of San Sebastian – January Festivals honoring Nuestra Senora de la Candelaria in San Sebastian take place in February. March Lajas
Patronal Fiestas de San Blas Illescas and La Virgen Candelaria-February The Coamo
Patronal Fiestas of the Virgen de la Candelaria are held in February. Valentine’s Day
Patronal Fiestas of the Virgen de la Candelaria- February San Benito Abad’s Patronal Fiestas are held in Mayaguez every March. Patronal Fiestas de San Jose (Patillas) are held in March. Gurabo
Fiestas Patronales de San Jose en Marzo San Jose Patronal Fiestas in Luquillo (March) In March, Penuelas
Fiestas Patronales de San Jose will be held. Festivals Patronales de San Patricio in Lares (March) Loiza
Patronal Fiestas de San Pedro Martir en April Guaynabo’s Festival de la Santa Cruz takes place in May. San Felipe Apostol’s Patronal Fiestas are held every May in Bayamon. Arecibo’s Patronal Fiestas de San Fernando are held in May. Dominican Republic
San Fernando Festivities – May A high point in the month of May is the celebration of the patron Saint Isidore Labrador. Summer at the Sabana Grande
Patronal Fiestas of San Antonio de Padua in June In June, Barranquitas and Patronal Fiestas of San Antonio de Padua will be held. Ceiba
Fiestas Patronales de San Antonio de Padua (St. Anthony’s Festival) – June Dorado
Fiestas Patronales de San Antonio de Padua (St. Anthony’s Festival) – June Guayama
Fiestas Patronales de San Antonio de Padua (St. Anthony’s Day Celebrations) – June Isabela
Patronal Fiestas de San Juan Bautista en Junio Fiestas Patronales de San Juan Bautista in Orocovis en Junio San Juan
Patronal Fiestas de San Juan Bautista en June Festas Patronales de San Pedro Apostol
Maricao
San Pedro Apostol – The month of June San Pedro and San Isidro Patronal Festivals in Labrador
Toa Baja
Toa Baja – The month of June Maunabo
Fiestas Patronales de Santiago Apostol (St. Andrew’s Day celebrations) – July/August Aibonito
Fiestas Patronales de la Virgen del Carmen- JulyBarceloneta
Fiestas Patronales de Nuestra Sra. del Carmen- JulyAibonito
Fiestas Patronales de la Virgen del Carmen- July August
Patronal Festivities of Our Lady of the Rosary- July
Cidra Morovis
Patronal Fiestas de Nuestra Sra. del Carmen en Julio In Caguas, the Patronal Fiestas of Nuestra Sra. del Carmen are held in July. Culebra
Fiestas Patronales de Nuestra Sra. del Carmen (Our Lady of the Rosary) – July Festivals Patronales of Nuestra Sra. del Carmen (Our Lady of the Rosary) – July Vieques
Fiestas Patronales de Nuestra Sra. del Carmen (Our Lady of the Rosary) – July In Catano, the Patronal Festival of Nuestra Sra. del Carmen is held in July. Hatillo
Fiestas Patronales de Nuestra Sra. del Carmen (Our Lady of the Rosary) – July Fiestas Patronales de Nuestra Sra. del Carmen (Our Lady of the Rosary) en Julio Villalba’s Patronal Fiestas de San German Euserre take place in July. Fiestas Patronales de Santiago Apostol en Julio en San German Fajardo’s Patronal Fiestas de Santiago Apostol are held in July. Santa Isabel
Fiestas Patronales de Santiago Apostol- July
Fiestas Patronales de Santiago Apostol- Festivals Patronales de San Joaquin
Guanica Santa Ana, California – August Asociados
Fiestas Patronales de Santa Rosa de Lima in Augusto. Patronal Fiestas of Nuestra Senora de Asuncion (Our Lady of Asuncion) in August Santo Cristo de la Salud Fiestas Patronales- August in Cayey Fiestas Patronales de Nuestra Senora de las Mercedes (Our Lady of the Mercedes) – September Florida
Patronal Fiestas de San Miguel Arcangel-September Nueva Naranjito
Fiestas Patronales de San Miguel Arcangel- SeptemberUtuado
Fiestas Patronales de San Miguel Arcangel- SeptemberCabo Rojo
Fiestas Patronales de San Ramon Nonato- SeptemberJuana Diaz
Fiestas Patronales de Santa Cruz- SeptemberTrujillo Alto
Fiestas Patronales de Nuestra Senora de la Monserrate- September Aguas Bu SeptemberSalinas
Fiestas Patronales Nuestra Senora de la Monserrate- SeptemberJajuya
Fiestas Patronales Nuestra Senora de la Monserrate- SeptemberSalinas, Spain – The month of September Fiestas Patronales Nuestra Senora de las Mercedes in Moca en September The Patronal Festivals of the Virgen de la Monserrate are held in September in San Lorenzo. In October, Hormigueros will celebrate the Patronal Festival of the Santos Angeles Custodios. Oktoberfest
Patronal Festivals of Nuestra Senora del Rosario and San Jose del Cabrillo- Cinco de Octubre
Fiestas Patronales of Nuestra Sra. del Pilar on Octubre November – Canovanas
Fiestas Patronales of Nuestra Virgen del Rosario (Our Lady of the Rosary) In October, Naguabo hosts the Fiestas Patronales de Nuestra Virgen del Rosario. Festivals in honor of Nuestra Virgen del Rosario, held in October, in Vega Baja Every Yauco, the Patronal Fiestas of San Carlos Borremeo are held in October. San Francisco de Asis Fiestas Patronales en Aguadilla, Honduras – October San Rafael Arcangel Patronal Festivals in Aguada, Mexico (October). Quebradillas
Fiestas Patronales of La Inmaculada Concepcion de Mara- DecemberVega Alta
Fiestas Patronales de Nuestra Senora de la Guadalupe- DecemberPonce
Fiestas Patronales Inmaculada Concepcion de Maria- DecemberHumacao
Fiestas Patronales Inmaculada Concepcion de Maria- DecemberJuncos
Fi Fiestas Patronales de la Inmaculada Concepcion de Maria- December in Guayanilla Christmas Eve
Patronal Fiestas Nuestra Senora de Asuncion- December Las Piedras (the Stones)

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Festas Patronales de la Templa de la Sagrada Familia en Janvier Festivals Patronales de San Antonio Abad in Corozal are held every year in January. December; Fiestas Patronales de San Sebastian (January) In February, the city of San Sebastian celebrates the feast of Our Lady of the Candelaria. March Lajas; Patronal Fiestas de San Blas Illescas and La Virgen Candelaria-February Lajas The Coamo; Patronal Fiestas of the Virgen de la Candelaria are celebrated in February. Valentine’s Day; Patronal Fiestas of the Virgen de la Candelaria in February Mayores de Mayaguez; Fiestas Patronales de San Benito Abad- March Patronal Fiestas de San Jose (Patillas) are held every March.

February; Lares; Patronal Fiestas of San Patricio-March San Pedro Martir Patronal Fiestas – April in Loiza In Guaynabo, the Santa Cruz Festival takes place in May.
Arecibo’s Patronal Fiestas de San Fernando are held in May each year.
Summer at the Sabana Grande; Patronal Fiestas of San Antonio de Padua in June.
Celia; Fiestas Patronales de San Antonio de Padua (St.
July; San Antonio de Padua Fiestas Patronales (Festivals of the Patron Saint) – June; Guayama; Isabela; Patronal Fiestas de San Juan Bautista en Junio.
Peter the Apostle (Maricao) July – December San Pedro and San Isidro Labrador Patronal Festivals; Toa Baja July – December Festas Patronales de Santiago Apostol (St.
In August, there will be celebrations in honor of the Virgin of the Carmen in Barcelona and Aibonito.

del Carmen in Barcelona and Aibonito in July.

August; Patronal Festivals of Nuestra Sra.

In July, there are Patronal Festivals for Nuestra Sra.

Festivals Patronales of Nuestra Sra.

del Carmen are held in the month of July.

In July, Hatillo will host the Patronal Festivals of Nuestra Sra.

Fireworks; Patronal Fiestas de Nuestra Sra.

Fiestas Patronales de Santiago Apostol in Julio en San German.

During the month of July, there are celebrations honoring the patron saint of Santiago Apostol.

Florida; Fiestas Patronales de San Miguel Arcangel en Septiembre Naranjito; Fiestas Patronales de San Miguel Arcangel- SeptemberUtuado; Fiestas Patronales de San Miguel Arcangel- SeptemberCabo Rojo; Fiestas Patronales de San Ramon Nonato- SeptemberJuana Diaz; Fiestas Patronales de Santa Cruz- SeptemberTrujillo Alto; Fiestas Patronales Nuestra Senora de la Monserrate- SeptemberAguas Buenas In September, Salinas hosts the Nuestra Senora de la Monserrate Patronal Fiestas Patronales, which honors the Virgin of the Monserrate.

– September is a month of celebration for many.

In October, Hormigueros will celebrate the Patronal Festival of the Santos Angeles Custodios (Saints Angeles Custodios).

del Pilar en el mes de Octubre Fiestas Patronales de Nuestra Virgen del Rosario in Canovanas en Octubre Festivals Patronales of Nuestra Virgen del Rosario in Naguabo, Honduras, from October to November Festivals in honor of Nuestra Virgen del Rosario, held every October, in Vega Baja, Mexico Festivals patronales of San Carlos Borremeo are held in Yauco in the month of October.

Quebradillas; Fiestas Patronales of La Inmaculada Concepcion de Mara- DecemberVega Alta; Fiestas Patronales de Nuestra Senora de la Guadalupe- DecemberPonce; Fiestas Patronales Inmaculada Concepcion de Maria- DecemberHumacao; Fiestas Patronales Inmaculada Concepcion de Maria- DecemberJuncos; Fiest Fiestas Patronales de la Inmaculada Concepcion de Maria- December at Guayanilla.

Christmas; Patronal Festivals of Nuestra Senora de Asuncion in December It is the Stones; it is the Rocks

Festivities of St. James, The Apostle, Held at the Town of Loiza in Puerto Rico

Vejigantemasks have horns made of wood and coconutAt the town of Loíza in northeastern Puerto Rico, traditional activities honoring St. James manifest a mix of indigenous, African and Hispanic cultures, but the African elements are the most notable. The 10-day celebration is an expression of an alienated, sometimes clandestine, culture, rooted in the centuries’ old mistreatment of blacks that have lived in the area. First settled in the 1500s, the town became home to a large number of African slaves brought to work in the sugarcane fields. Even today, Loíza is known as a predominately Afro-Puerto Rican town.St. James, the Apostle, originally earned the devotion of Spaniards by aiding them in their struggle against the invading Muslims centuries ago. It is said that St. James scared off the enemy by disguising his troops asvejigantes, the origin of the peculiar costumes used today in the festivities. The costumes represent giants with long, horned African masks. Puerto Rico’s first conquerors and the Spanish clergy who accompanied them to “evangelize the pagan natives” invoked St. James, the Apostle, as their patron to protect them from the neighboring Indians (Caribs) and the European pirates that attacked the island.Once evangelized, the conquered Indians, and later the black slaves, also called on St. James, to relieve their oppression and suffering. St. James, not unlikeChangó, a warrior god in the African Yoruba tradition, carried an iron sword in his hand. The holy warrior became popular with all three cultures – the native, the African, the Hispanic – and the celebration’s symbolism and traditions became mixed. But the Spaniards no longer determined the festival’s rhythm and style. The people declared themselves loyal to their patron-warrior, and turned him into a symbol of defiance in the face of oppression. St. James became a further symbol of defiance when during the 19th century the Church, yielding to pressure by newly arrived Irish families, declared St. Patrick to be the town’s official saint. The townspeople considered St. Patrick the oppressor’s protector, an imposed “foreign” patron saint. Thus, today’s festival of St. James recalls memories of suffering and struggle against foreign peoples and foreign values. By giving him homage, the people believe, they and their lands receive God’s blessing.In today’s celebration, a parade of masks carved from wood and coconuts is featured. The masks may represent a deity, an ancestor, an animal, or a mythological or historical character. Even this parade is not without “oppression”; in 1984, a municipal order entitled “Public Order on Religion and Morality” was published, defining the correct way aloiceño(native of Loízo) must carry on religious processions and prescribing the correct costumes, meeting resistance from theloiceños.The festival has changed in recent years from a festival being held only for theloiceñosto a commercial tourist attraction drawing spectators from throughout Puerto Rico and beyond. Attracted by Loíza’s beauty and its beaches, outside investors are proposing to build hotel complexes, condominiums and country clubs, threatening to displace or destroy this historic Puerto Rican community. Once again, those native to the town and its traditions are struggling against a foreign culture being imposed on them, which makes the St. James festivities all the more meaningful.The project is documented with a 10-page report and eight 8 x 10 color photographs.Originally submitted by: Carlos Romero-Barcelo, Delegate (At Large).

Additional Puerto Rico Local Legacies
Local Legacies for all 50 states of the United States of America

The Local Legacies project captures a “snapshot” of American culture as it was expressed in the spring of 2000, and it is available online. Because of this, it is not being updated with new or changed content, with the exception of “Related Website” links, which are updated on a regular basis.

Our Lady of Providence, Patron Saint of Puerto Rico

1″ x 3/4″ Large Size Catholic Medal, 1″ x 3/4″ Gold Filled Our Lady of Providence Pendant, Stainless Gold Heavy Curb Chain, $113.00 Large Size Catholic Medal, 1″ x 3/4″Price:$70.00 Sterling Silver Our Lady of Providence Pendant, Stainless Silver Heavy Curb Chain, Sterling Silver Our Lady of Providence Pendant, Stainless Silver Heavy Curb Chain, Sterling Silver Our Lady of Providence Pendant A gold-filled Our Lady of Providence pendant, a gold-filled Lite Curb Chain, and a medium-sized Catholic medal measuring 3/4″ x 1/2″ are all included in the price of $150.00.

A gold-filled Our Lady of Providence pendant, a gold-filled lite curb chain, and a small size Catholic medal measuring 1/2″ x 1/4″ are all available for purchase for $80.00.

‘Our Lady Of Divine Providence’ Protects Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico was made its patroness when a new bishop arrived to find the Catholic Church on the island in disorder, thanks to a 13th-century devotion that began in Italy and spread throughout the world. The devotion to Our Lady of the Divine Providence was introduced to the islands by a newly appointed bishop from Spain, and the islands were put in her care. Bishop Gil E. Tomas was a native of the Catalonia area of Spain, where a popular shrine had been established, and he carried his spirituality with him when he came to the United States.

Philip Benizi Church in Jonesboro to honor this feast, which will take place some 800 years after the first celebration.
John the Baptist), which is located in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
“She constantly responds to our calls,” said Haydee Santiago, a planner for the yearly event.
11, which will begin with a Spanish Mass at 12:30 p.m.
Participants in this religious and cultural event are urged to attend.
It was an oil painting that was used to create the initial depiction of Our Lady of the Divine Providence.
In 1969, Pope Paul VI designated Our Lady, Mother of Divine Providence, as the major patroness of the island of Puerto Rico.
To participate in two festivities of Puerto Ricans, according to the Marian Library/Marian Research Institute at the University of Dayton, the objective was to connect the two festivals of Puerto Ricans: love for their beautiful island and love for the Mother of God.
“Our Lady of Divine Providence is one of our favorite saints.

“It is a privilege for us to participate in the feast,” she stated. “Our Blessed Mother is always in our thoughts and prayers.” She stated that many people pray to the Virgin Mary to intercede on their behalf in order to preserve the island from natural calamities.

Our Lady Of Divine Providence Patroness Of Puerto Rico

Among the religious orders and saints who venerate the image known as Our Lady of the Divine Providence is St. Philip Benicio, the fifth superior of the Servants of Mary, who is credited with giving the title “Of Divine Providence” to the Virgin Mary in an oil painting depicting her holding the Child Jesus asleep in her arms. During a day when the friars were unable to feed themselves, they prayed and begged the Virgin Mary to intervene on their behalf. The friars discovered two baskets of food outside the entrance of their convent. The first known carving of the picture goes back to 1853
The feast is celebrated on November 19.

History

The objective of the Parada San Juan Bautista, Inc. is to foster solidarity and harmony among all members of the surrounding community. Those who work in the religious and educational communities, as well as in business and government at the local, county, and state levels, have firsthand experience with this. We have successfully interwoven our programs and events into the social fabric of the city and the neighboring areas as a result of its success in bringing people from diverse cultures and backgrounds together.

is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt, non-profit charity company with roughly 30 members that was founded in 1997.
must first demonstrate dedication to the community through its leadership, then work diligently on their behalf with the help of their volunteers and members, as well as receive generous financial support from private and public sources, as well as state and local contributors.
Those parishioners who wanted to bear testimony to their own and Puerto Rican origin, culture, and customs came together to organize the Parada San Juan Bautista, Inc., also known as St.
It exemplified the ambitions of a community in quest of recognition and equitable treatment.

For more than a decade, the organization has developed strong working relationships with organizations such as the Latin American Economic Development Association, the Camden County Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, the Hispanic Family Center of Southern New Jersey, the Camden Children’s Garden, Atrium Dance Studio, and Mega 1310AM.

Our calendar of events includes a BusinessProfessional Reception for local and county companies and government officials, a Coronation Pageant that brings attention to our beautiful and educated young Latina ladies in Camden County, and a Gala that honors our community’s veterans.

The Flag Raising Ceremony informs the general public about our Puerto Rican heritage and the significance of our flag.

Those seniors who have committed their life to make Camden County a better place are honored at the luncheon.

It is during the Dinner Dance that we recognize our financial benefactors as well as our Achievement Honorees, while the Festival de Aibonito Celebration is a homage to one of the most beautiful and culturally rich towns in Puerto Rico.

This year, we will conclude our month-long celebration with the largest outdoor summer concert in the country, which will showcase the diverse talents of our Latino culture.

In 1493, when Christopher Columbus landed in Puerto Rico on his second journey, he discovered a tribe of Arawak Indians known as the Tainos who had taken up residence on the island.

John the Baptist.

John the Baptist was celebrated on June 24, which was six months before Christmas according to the Catholic calendar.

Fiestas Patronales, also known as Patron Saint Festivals, are celebrated in every Puerto Rican town, and many towns also have extra festivals that commemorate cultural icons such as Bomba y plena, danza, salsa, hamacas, and major crops such as plantains and coffee, among other things.

The importance of celebrations is highly valued in this country. Because St. John the Baptist is the patron saint of the island and the namesake of the capital city (San Juan), his feast day is extensively observed, with large beach celebrations taking place all over the island.

Patron Saint Festivals

Festivals of patron saints (fiestas patronales) are held in each town every year to commemorate their own town’s patron saint. There will be religious processions as part of the festivities because they were originally a Catholic ritual. They have, however, incorporated additional features of African and indigenous ancestry. They also feature activities like as games, regional cuisine, music, and dancing. The following is a list of festivals that are celebrated in each town, arranged chronologically by date.

Town	Patron Saint	Date
Corozal	La Sagrada Familia	January 9
Añasco	San Antonio Abad	January 17
San Sebastian	San Sebastian (of course)	January 20
Lajas	La Virgen de la Candelaria	February 2
Manatí	La Virgen de la Candelaria	February 2
Mayaguez	La Virgen de la Candelaria	February 2
Coamo	La Virgen de la Candelaria	February 2
Coamo	San Blas	February 3
Loiza Aldea	San Patricio	March 17
Ciales	San José	March 19
Gurabo	San José	March 19
Luquillo	San José	March 19
Peñuelas	San José	March 19
Lares	San José	March 19
Patillas	San Benito	March 31
Guaynabo	San Pedro Martir	April 29
Arecibo	Apóstol San Felipe	May 1
Bayamón	La Santa Cruz	May 3
Trujillo Alto	La Santa Cruz	May 3
Maunabo	San Isidro	May 15
Sabana Grande	San Isidro Labrador	May 15
Carolina	San Fernando	May 30
Toa Alta	San Fernando	May 30
Barranquitas	San Antonio de Padua	June 13
Ceiba	San Antonio de Padua	June 13
Dorado	San Antonio de Padua	June 13
Guayama	San Antonio de Padua	June 13
Isabela	San Antonio de Padua	June 13
Maricao	San Juan Bautista	June 24
Orocovis	San Juan Bautista	June 24
San Juan	San Juan Bautista	June 24
Toa Baja	San Pedro Apóstol	June 30
Arroyo	Virgen del Carmen	July 16
Barceloneta	Virgen del Carmen	July 16
Cataño	Virgen del Carmen	July 16
Cidra	Virgen del Carmen	July 16
Culebra	Virgen del Carmen	July 16
Hatillo	Virgen del Carmen	July 16
Morovis	Virgen del Carmen	July 16
Rio Grande	Virgen del Carmen	July 16
Villalba	Virgen del Carmen	July 16
Aibonito	Santiago Apóstol	July 25
Fajardo	Santiago Apóstol	July 25
Guanica	Santiago Apóstol	July 25
Loiza Aldea	Santiago Apóstol	July 25
Santa Isabel	Santiago Apóstol	July 25
San Germán	San Germán (of course)	July 31
Comerio	El Santo Cristo de la Salud	August 6
San Lorenzo	San Lorenzo (of course)	August 10
Cayey	Nuestra Señora de la Asunción	August 15
Adjuntas	San JoaquínSanta Ana	August 21
Rincón	Santa Rosa de Lima	August 30
Juana Díaz	San Ramón Nonato	August 31
Aguas Buenas	Nuestra Señora de la Monserrate	September 8
Hormigueros	Nuestra Señora de la Monserrate	September 8
Jayuya	Nuestra Señora de la Monserrate	September 8
Moca	Nuestra Señora de la Monserrate	September 8
Salinas	Nuestra Señora de la Monserrate	September 8
Cabo Rojo	San Miguel Arcangel	September 29
Naranjito	San Miguel Arcangel	September 29
Utuado	San Miguel Arcangel	September 29
Yabucoa	Los Angeles Custodios	October 2
Aguada	San Francisco de Asis	October 4
Naguabo	Nuestra Señora del Rosario	October 7
Vega Baja	Nuestra Señora del Rosario	October 7
Yauco	Nuestra Señora del Rosario	October 7
Canovanas	La Virgen del Pilar	October 12
Rio Piedras	La Virgen del Pilar	October 12
Quebradillas	San Rafael Arcangel	October 24
Aguadilla	San Carlos Borromeo	November 4
Guayanilla	La Inmaculada Concepción de María	December 8
Humacao	La Inmaculada Concepción de María	December 8
Juncos	La Inmaculada Concepción de María	December 8
Las Marías	La Inmaculada Concepción de María	December 8
Las Piedras	La Inmaculada Concepción de María	December 8
Vega Alta	La Inmaculada Concepción de María	December 8
Vieques	La Inmaculada Concepción de María	December 8
Ponce	Nuestra Señora de la Guadalupe	December 12

Festivals of patron saints (fiestas patronales) are held in each town every year to commemorate the patron saint of that particular town. As a result of its origins as a Catholic custom, religious processions are part of the celebrations. Other features of African and indigenous provenance, on the other hand, have been included. Games, regional cuisine, music, and dancing are also part of the festivities. The festivals that are observed in each town are listed here, in chronological sequence by date.