Tradição da “Encomenda das Almas” acontece no Brejo do Amparo

Summary

In Brejo do Amparo, a deeply rooted Catholic tradition known as 'Encomenda das Almas' takes place during Holy Week. This ritual, which involves a group of people walking the streets at midnight, praying for the souls of the deceased, dates back to the 18th century and reflects Portuguese influence. Participants follow strict rules of silence and respect, visiting cemeteries and praying for souls, especially those who died tragically. The ceremony highlights the community's devotion to faith and tradition, offering peace to the departed and reinforcing the region's rich cultural heritage.

Takeaways

• 😀 The 'Encomenda das Almas' is a Catholic tradition in the Brejo do Amparo region, practiced for many years during Holy Week.
• 😀 This ritual involves singing prayers for the souls of the deceased to help alleviate their sins and provide peace.
• 😀 The tradition begins at midnight with the body of a deceased person covered in a white sheet, marking the start of the prayer journey.
• 😀 A group of ten people, mostly women, participates in the ritual, walking through the streets and praying silently for the dead.
• 😀 The tradition was introduced to Brazil in the 18th century with Portuguese influence and continues in a few regions of the country.
• 😀 Participants, called 'encomendadores de alma' (soul couriers), follow a path of respect and silence as they pray for the souls of the departed.
• 😀 Rita Freire, a long-time participant, believes the ritual brings peace to the souls of the deceased, knowing they are happy in the afterlife.
• 😀 The ritual includes prayers at key locations, such as street corners and intersections, with the main goal being to reach the cemetery.
• 😀 According to tradition, no one should leave their house when the soul couriers are out, as it is believed that the wandering souls could disturb them.
• 😀 At the cemetery, participants continue their prayers, focusing on respect for the deceased, as the ritual provides spiritual connection and salvation.
• 😀 The community in Brejo do Amparo highly values and preserves this religious and cultural tradition, as it plays an essential role in local identity.

Q & A

What is the tradition described in the script?

The tradition described is called 'Encomenda das Almas,' a Catholic custom observed in Brejo do Amparo, where people gather to pray for the souls of the deceased during Holy Week.

When does the ritual of 'Encomenda das Almas' begin?

The ritual begins at midnight and continues with a procession through the streets of Brejo do Amparo.

What is the role of the participants in the ritual?

The participants, called 'encomendadores de alma' (soul's senders), walk through the town praying for the deceased, symbolizing respect for the souls and for the Passion of Christ.

How long has this tradition been practiced in Brejo do Amparo?

This tradition has been practiced in Brejo do Amparo for 49 years, but its origins go back to the 18th century with Portuguese influence.

What is the significance of the white cloth mentioned in the ritual?

The participants cover themselves with a white cloth, which is a symbol of reverence and purity during the prayers for the souls of the deceased.

What is the recommended behavior for those witnessing the ritual?

Witnesses should remain silent, avoid laughing, and not look back during the procession. It is a time of solemnity and respect for the souls being prayed for.

What does the sound of the matraca signify?

The sound of the matraca, a traditional noise-making instrument, signals the beginning of the ritual, marking the start of the prayers and procession.

What happens at the cemetery during the ritual?

At the cemetery, the group continues praying, offering a specific prayer at the cemetery gate, which is considered the sixth station in the ritual.

How do participants feel about the ritual?

Participants feel that the ritual is a deeply respectful and spiritual act, bringing peace to the souls of the deceased and a sense of fulfillment to those performing it.

Why is the tradition of 'Encomenda das Almas' important to Brejo do Amparo?

The tradition is important because it preserves local Catholic customs and cultural practices that have been passed down through generations, connecting the community with their religious and cultural heritage.