Our Lady of the Angels Day (La Negrita)

Our Lady of the Angels Day, also known as La Negrita, is a significant religious holiday in Costa Rica celebrated on August 2nd. This day honors the Virgin of Los Angeles, the patron saint of Costa Rica. Here’s a detailed look at the origins, traditions, and significance of this important day:

Historical Background

• Legend of La Negrita: According to local legend, on August 2, 1635, a young indigenous girl named Juana Pereira found a small black statue of the Virgin Mary holding baby Jesus on a rock near a stream in Cartago. She took it home, but it mysteriously returned to the spot where she found it. This happened several times until the local priest declared it a miraculous sign and ordered the construction of a shrine at the site.
• Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels: The statue, known as La Negrita due to its dark color, is now housed in the Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels in Cartago, which became an important pilgrimage site.

Pilgrimage and Celebrations

• Pilgrimage to Cartago: One of the most significant aspects of Our Lady of the Angels Day is the pilgrimage to the basilica in Cartago. Thousands of Costa Ricans, known as “Romeros,” walk from various parts of the country to the basilica. Some pilgrims travel hundreds of kilometers on foot, taking several days to complete the journey.
• Mass and Blessings: On August 2nd, a special mass is held at the basilica, attended by pilgrims, clergy, and often high-ranking officials. The mass includes prayers, hymns, and blessings. Pilgrims often bring candles, flowers, and other offerings to the Virgin.
• The Holy Water: Many pilgrims collect holy water from a spring located within the basilica complex, believed to have healing properties.

Cultural and Social Impact

• Community and Unity: The pilgrimage fosters a sense of community and national unity. It is a time for Costa Ricans from all walks of life to come together in shared devotion.
• Traditions and Customs: The journey to Cartago is often accompanied by traditional songs, dances, and prayers. Along the route, local communities set up refreshment stands and resting places for the pilgrims, providing food, water, and medical assistance.
• Religious Significance: Our Lady of the Angels Day is not only a time for personal reflection and prayer but also a way for Costa Ricans to express their gratitude, seek blessings, and ask for the Virgin’s intercession in their lives.

Modern Observances

• Government Participation: The government of Costa Rica recognizes the significance of this day, often providing logistical support for the pilgrimage. Public figures may participate in the events and give speeches acknowledging the importance of faith and tradition in Costa Rican culture.
• Media Coverage: The pilgrimage and celebrations are widely covered by the media, with live broadcasts of the mass and stories of individual pilgrims, highlighting their journeys and personal reasons for participating.

Conclusion

Our Lady of the Angels Day on August 2nd is a deeply significant and unifying event in Costa Rica. Rooted in a centuries-old legend, it brings together thousands of faithful in a massive pilgrimage to the Basilica of Our Lady of the Angels in Cartago. Costa Ricans express their devotion, seek blessings, and celebrate their rich cultural and religious heritage through this event.