debut: 2/16/17
39,440 runs
T&T's Black Madonna-- La Divina Pastora
La Divina Pastora translates to "The Divine Shepherdess." It is the title given to a statue of the Virgin Mary, who is revered as the protector and guide of her people, much like a shepherd guiding their flock.
The statue is significant in both Catholic and Hindu traditions in Trinidad and Tobago, making it a unique symbol of shared faith and devotion among two distinct religious communities.
The statue is said to have been brought to Trinidad by a Spanish Capuchin priest from Venezuela, who credited it with saving his life — hence it gained a reputation for performing miracles.
Indigenous American tribes are thought to have carved it out of wood. The statue is distinct because it portrays Mary as a Black Madonna, a depiction of the Virgin Mary with dark skin, which is rare but not unheard of in Catholic iconography.
The statue is about 3 feet 4 inches tall.
It is adorned with long black human hair, a veil, a crown, a shepherdess' staff (symbolizing her role as a guide and protector), jewels, and rosaries. This elaborate presentation reflects the devotion of her followers.
The Siparia RC (Roman Catholic) Church is the focal point of devotion to La Divina Pastora. The statue has been central to the religious life of the Siparia community since the Catholic mission was established there in the 1750s.
Over time, the church became a parish in 1906, and the statue has been venerated by both Catholics and Hindus, who believe in her miraculous powers. This shared veneration is a beautiful example of religious harmony in Trinidad and Tobago.
The Feast of La Divina Pastora is an annual religious event. This year, it was celebrated at the Siparia RC Church under the theme "Mary, Hope of Christians."
The Mass was officiated by Archbishop Robert Rivas and the parish priest, Fr Santhosh Puliyammakkal. Special guests, such as Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles, attended the celebration.
The highlight of the event was a procession through the streets, where devotees carried the statue of La Divina Pastora. Processions are a common practice in Catholic traditions, signifying reverence and devotion.
In Trinidad's multicultural society, La Divina Pastora has become a symbol of faith that transcends religious boundaries.
Catholics regard her as the Virgin Mary, while Hindus see her as a form of Mother Durga or Divine Mother, reflecting shared values of love, protection, and miracles.
This celebration is a deeply spiritual and communal event that blends history, faith, and cultural unity in Trinidad and Tobago.
It highlights the unique way people of different religious backgrounds come together to honour La Divina Pastora.
Sarge
They revere statues?.....
La Divina Pastora translates to "The Divine Shepherdess." It is the title given to a statue of the Virgin Mary, who is revered as the protector and guide of her people, much like a shepherd guiding their flock.
The statue is significant in both Catholic and Hindu traditions in Trinidad and Tobago, making it a unique symbol of shared faith and devotion among two distinct religious communities.
The statue is said to have been brought to Trinidad by a Spanish Capuchin priest from Venezuela, who credited it with saving his life — hence it gained a reputation for performing miracles.
Indigenous American tribes are thought to have carved it out of wood. The statue is distinct because it portrays Mary as a Black Madonna, a depiction of the Virgin Mary with dark skin, which is rare but not unheard of in Catholic iconography.
The statue is about 3 feet 4 inches tall.
It is adorned with long black human hair, a veil, a crown, a shepherdess' staff (symbolizing her role as a guide and protector), jewels, and rosaries. This elaborate presentation reflects the devotion of her followers.
The Siparia RC (Roman Catholic) Church is the focal point of devotion to La Divina Pastora. The statue has been central to the religious life of the Siparia community since the Catholic mission was established there in the 1750s.
Over time, the church became a parish in 1906, and the statue has been venerated by both Catholics and Hindus, who believe in her miraculous powers. This shared veneration is a beautiful example of religious harmony in Trinidad and Tobago.
The Feast of La Divina Pastora is an annual religious event. This year, it was celebrated at the Siparia RC Church under the theme "Mary, Hope of Christians."
The Mass was officiated by Archbishop Robert Rivas and the parish priest, Fr Santhosh Puliyammakkal. Special guests, such as Opposition Leader Pennelope Beckles, attended the celebration.
The highlight of the event was a procession through the streets, where devotees carried the statue of La Divina Pastora. Processions are a common practice in Catholic traditions, signifying reverence and devotion.
In Trinidad's multicultural society, La Divina Pastora has become a symbol of faith that transcends religious boundaries.
Catholics regard her as the Virgin Mary, while Hindus see her as a form of Mother Durga or Divine Mother, reflecting shared values of love, protection, and miracles.
This celebration is a deeply spiritual and communal event that blends history, faith, and cultural unity in Trinidad and Tobago.
It highlights the unique way people of different religious backgrounds come together to honour La Divina Pastora.
Sarge
They revere statues?.....
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