History and Culture
Excelsa and Unique Patroness of the State of Bahia
Dia de Nossa Senhora da Conceição da Praia. Salvador, Bahia. Foto: Amanda Oliveira.
In the Basilica of Our Lady of Conceição da Praia, on December 8th, there is a typical popular festival in honor of the Excelsa and Unique Patroness of the State of Bahia, being the oldest religious festival in Brazil. In 2019, 470 years of Faith and Devotion to the Immaculate Conceição – which was the theme of the party – were completed.
Priests, faithful, seminarians and the population follow the andor accompanying a trio elétrico to the sound of the Basilica’s choir. Syncretism marks tribute to Our Lady of Conceição da Praia. Adored by Catholics and revered by Candomblé adherents, in the religious syncretism the saint is Oxum, orixá of fresh waters.
Preparations begin at 5am, but the Solemn Eucharistic Celebration begins at 9am. If you want to get a good seat inside the Basilica, it’s good to arrive around 8am. This will be held by Your Most Reverend Excellency Monsignor Murilo S. R. Krieger, scj- Metropolitan Archbishop of São Salvador da Bahia.
There is also the musical accompaniment of the Choir of the Basilica of Our Lady of Conceição da Praia, conducted by Maestro David Alves Tourinho. The choir has a musical tradition in this church, the songs are very good.
Schedule
9am – Solemn Eucharistic Celebration.
10:30 am – The procession leaves Conceição da Praia, takes Miguel Calmon Street, Holanda Street, Da França Av., returns via Bélgica Street, takes Lafayette Coutinho and goes back to the Basilica.
12pm – Return of the procession and the Blessed Sacrament Solemn Blessing
12:30 pm – Fr. Damião Jossivaldo Pereira da Silva, Parish Priest of the Parish of Saints Cosme and Damião (at Liberdade).
12pm to 4pm – The Immaculate’s Feijoada
From there also comes one of the biggest religious celebrations: the Washing of Bonfim. From this church, the processions, entourages, offerings baskets, the baianas, and also the electric “coffee carts” with great music leave. From there also leave many bereguedês and micro trios on their way to the Bonfim Church on the Sacred Hill. Another important festival is the celebration in honor of the Lord Bom Jesus dos Navegantes.
Come with us.
Service
Basilica of Our Lady of Conceição da Praia
Conceição da Praia Street, no number – Comércio, Salvador – BA, 40015-250
The church is close to Mercado Modelo, next to the Lacerda Elevator.
