Religion

Religion: The Influence of Catholicism on Puerto Rico

In the world, there are around fifteen religions in existence. Nearly 33% of humanity around the Earth practices Catholicism, being the most practiced religion in the planet, followed by Islamism and Hinduism. In my country, Puerto Rico, Catholicism is the most practiced religion. About 97% of puertorricans practice it. This religion comes to Puerto Rico thanks to the Spanish colonizers in the fifteenth century. This means that the society and culture of this country has Catholic influence.

Throughout history, Catholicism has evolved in different forms in Puerto Rico. Today, we can see how our society and culture have been influenced by this religion. Different holidays in the year are celebrated thanks to this influence: Christmas, Easter and even New Year are great examples of these holidays; some festivals and carnivals are celebrated to honor some Patron Saints. Our history is based on Catholicism and is an important part of traditions of Puerto Rico. The influence of religion in traditions is important in the formation of puertorricans.

Also, religion influenced the society and history of these islands. Each town of Puerto Rico is founded based on some elements, one of these is religion. The Catholic Church was established in each town of the country, bringing big influence in these social groups. Each one has a Patron Saint, a biblical character dedicated to each municipality. Other places like shrine, monuments and statues are part of this religion. In addition, some towns, neighborhoods, streets and even beaches have names of different characters of the Bible, the most important book of Catholicism.

These elements are just some that have Catholicism influence. Although there are other religions in the country, this is practiced by the majority of the population of Puerto Rico. Each society has a religion that influences its culture, traditions and society. This is why it is important to keep and maintain religion so that we and future generations may continue to enjoy it.