São José de Ribamar

Pilgrimage in Maranhão,
Brazil
Discover the fascinating tradition of the São José de Ribamar
pilgrimage in the Brazilian state of Maranhão, a celebration of faith,
culture, and identity.

by teacher Wagner Moura

Introduction to São José de Ribamar
Location
São José de Ribamar is located on
the north coast of Brazil, in the
state of Maranhão. Its stunning
beaches and colonial architecture
attract visitors from all over the
world.
Historical Importance
São José de Ribamar is named
after the patron saint of
Maranhão and has been part of
the state's history since its
colonization. The city still
preserves its colonial architecture
and traditions.
Religious and Cultural Context
São José de Ribamar is a center of
Catholic faith and local and
regional culture. Its pilgrimage is
a central expression of
Maranhão's rich cultural
heritage, where Catholicism and
local traditions intertwine.
W ho Was São José de Ribamar?
Origins and History
According to legend, more than two
centuries ago, a Portuguese navigator was
facing a terrible storm at sea, and when he
realized the risk of shipwreck, he prayed to
God, through the intercession of Saint
Joseph, and promised that if his vessel and
crew were saved, he would build a chapel
dedicated to Saint Joseph on the first solid
land they found.
Role in Local Religiosity
São José de Ribamar is the patron saint of
Maranhão state in Brazil, he is a central
figure in the faith of many Maranhão
residents. The pilgrimage is the most
important expression of his cult, where
people honor the saint and ask for his
blessings.
Impact on the Region
São José's popularity has spread beyond
Maranhão, attracting devotees from across
Brazil and even other countries. The
pilgrimage is a powerful social and cultural
force that affects many aspects of
Maranhão's life.
History of the Romaria de São José de
Ribamar
1 Origins of the Pilgrimage
The tributes to São José de Ribamar
in Maranhão began as early as the
17th century, with the founding of the
city being recorded. However, the
first record of a large pilgrimage only
emerged in 1821. In 2001, the images
of São José de Ribamar were taken to
São Luís for restoration. On that
occasion, the community of Ribamar,
together with pilgrims and devotees,
organized the first grand pilgrimage.
2 There are many pilgrimages
Traditionally, many groups,
communities, families, and devotees
make their "pilgrimage" throughout
the day. They are vow payers, first-
time pilgrims, people seeking
blessings, and even miracles, in each
devotee of São José de Ribamar. But
there is the Great Pilgrimage, which
happens after the mass at Nossa
Senhora do Perpétuo Socorro church,
at São Luís, when the pilgrims will
proceed along Jerônimo de
Albuquerque Avenue towards MA-201
Highway, heading to the Sanctuary of
the Patron Saint of Maranhão. It is an
eight-hour walk throughout the night.
Date and C elebrations
Activities during the Celebration

The pilgrimage includes various masses and celebrations,

such as religious processions, and prayers. It also features
cultural events, like folk dances and music.

1 2 3

Date of the Romaria Significance of the Feast Day

The São José de Ribamar Great Pilgrimage happens at the
end of September. It is an eight-hour walk where devotees
and pilgrims visit eight stops (eight stations) where they
reflect on "The Stations of Saint Joseph's Life."
The feast day of São José de Ribamar is the climax of the
pilgrimage - in Maranhão, this date it is not just celebrated
on March, but also in September because on that time
there is no rainning days. It's a day of great devotion and
joy, where people celebrate the saint and his miracles, and
enjoy local food and drinks.
Religious Aspects
The Spiritual Meaning
The São José de Ribamar pilgrimage is a powerful
expression of faith, where people seek blessings and
former spiritual connections with the saint and the divine.
Importance of the Saint
São José de Ribamar is a central figure of Maranhão's
Catholicism. He represents the region's identity and
history, and his cult is a symbol of local pride and faith.
C ultural and Touristic Impact
1 Touristic Appeal

The pilgrimage generates business opportunities and

contributes to the local economy. In the Sanctuary complex,
there are other buildings that attract tourists and pilgrims. They
are: the House of Miracles, the Saint Joseph's Path Square, the
Acoustic Shell, the Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes, the
monument to Saint Joseph, the Candle House, and the
Museum of Ex-Votos.

2 C ultural Influence

Another important characteristic feature of the Sanctuary is the

blessings of vehicles, which are daily brought by the faithful to
be blessed alongside the Path of Saint Joseph.
Manifestações C ulturais
Folk Dances and Music
The São José de Ribamar pilgrimage features typical Maranhão
dances and music, such as the Bumba-meu-boi, Tambor de Crioula,
and Cacuriá. These dances express the traditions and identity of the
region.
Local Foods
The pilgrimage is an opportunity to taste the delicious foods of
Maranhão, such as the famous Peixe Pedra, served with white rice,
farofa (toasted manioc flour mixture), and "vinagrete" (a type of
Brazilian sauce made with tomatoes, onions, peppers, vinegar, and
oil). Other specialties include the pirão de peixe, the torta de
camarão, and the vatapá.
C hallenges and Future of the Pilgrimage
Organizational Challenges
The São José de Ribamar pilgrimage faces logistical
challenges, such as providing adequate infrastructure
and security for the pilgrims and visitors, and
preserving the cultural and religious identity of the
event.
Perspectives of Growth and Preservation
The São José de Ribamar pilgrimage has a bright
future, with growing popularity and recognition.
However, it also needs to balance growth with
preservation, to ensure that it remains a meaningful
and authentic expression of Maranhão's faith and
culture.