Feast of All Saints

Brazil is a country full of colour, music and life. And although the people are full of energy, they can stop for a moment and reflect. They come to a spiritual balance and peace during November 1, when All Saints’ Day is celebrated. Although it is not a public holiday, it holds a special place in their hearts.

A day that belongs to heaven

Brazil is a strongly Catholic country. It is reported that about 60% of the population, which represents about 120 million people, adhere to this religion. The observance of religious festivals is therefore very important to them.

All Saints’ Day, called Dia de Todos os Santos in Brazil, commemorates all the saints and martyrs who are famous or whose name has been lost in the course of history. That is, not only those who have been recognized by the Vatican, but also those who have not been beatified but have sacrificed their lives for their faith. The first historically known feast of All Saints was held on May 13, 609 AD. On this day, the whole country fills with the echo of religious songs, prayers and words of homage to their memory.

The spiritual celebrations vary from region to region, but masses are held in churches and cathedrals that are decorated with flowers and candles, and in some places one can see processions carrying images of the patron saints. Although Brazilians partly experience this day in peace, it is also associated with joy. For them, faith is a living gift which they must enjoy with all their energy.

Connection with the Soulstice

The following day, November 2, marks another important holiday: Souls Day, called Dia de Finados. This day is recognized by the state, which is why people throughout the country have a public holiday. The two days are closely related, while first they direct their faith to the saints, subsequently they honor the departed souls. On this day, Brazilians come to cemeteries to place flowers, light candles or place photos of deceased loved ones on graves.

Celebrations vary by region. While in the Northeast, the day is heavily celebrated with folk processions, in the South it is marked by silence and private contemplation. In the Amazon region, it is closely linked to nature and the rituals of indigenous tribes.

Both days are symbolised by the colour white, which refers to faith itself, spiritual light and purity. It is common to see locals wearing white clothing with golden elements. On the altars, they place statues of saints, especially the patron saint of the country, Our Lady of Aparecida, as well as St Francis of Assisi, who is strongly venerated here.

The legacy of faith

Brazilians commemorate their spiritual roots on All Saints’ Day, although nowadays faith is increasingly becoming a private matter. On this day, they reflect on the meaning of life and the meaning of death, and see that the boundary between heaven and earth can easily be crossed.