Our Lady of Los Angeles in Costa Rica

Our Lady of Los Angeles, also known as "La Negrita," is the patron saint of Costa Rica. The day dedicated to her is celebrated on August 2nd each year and is a significant religious and national event in the country.

History

The story dates back to 1635, when a small, dark statue of the Virgin Mary holding baby Jesus was found by a native girl named Juana Pereira on a rock in the forest near Cartago. Despite attempts to remove it, the statue repeatedly returned to its original location. This was interpreted as a sign that the Virgin Mary wished to stay there, leading to the building of a shrine that eventually became the Basilica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles.

Traditions

• Pilgrimage (Romería): Each year, as many as 2 million people undertake a pilgrimage from various parts of Costa Rica and other countries to visit the basilica in Cartago where the statue is housed.

• Religious Services: Special masses and prayer services are held at the basilica throughout the day. People also offer flowers and pray for miracles or give thanks for favors received.

• Fiesta: In addition to religious observances, there are often festive activities such as parades, music, dancing, and food vendors selling traditional Costa Rican cuisine.

• Water Collection: Some pilgrims collect holy water from a spring near the basilica believed to have healing properties.

What People Do

On this day, many Costa Ricans will:

• Participate in the pilgrimage on foot, some covering long distances.
• Attend mass at the Basilica de Nuestra Señora de los Ángeles or local churches.
• Pray for health and well-being or express gratitude for past aid.
• Spend time with family and partake in local festivities if they live nearby.

This celebration highlights both religious devotion and national identity within Costa Rica.