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Art Review, A look our rich Puerto Rican Culture and a look at our Taino Culture past and present. All Rights Reserved.
Frao Turin Maxin Norberto
Guirero Guitarrista Cuatrista Cantante
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Corista Corista
Puerto Rico's Tradition of celebrating "The Promise" (La Promesa) was born in the countryside. La Promesa was started by the peasants living in the hills and is based in a deep Christian faith. Like when you go to church and in prayer ask the Lord to help in the recovery of a sick family member.
On January 6th, we celebrate the Feast of the Epiphany and many families celebrate by paying tribute in the form of a Promise "Promesa" acknowledging The Three Wise Men (Los Tres Reyes) who traveled from afar to see baby Jesus and present him with precious gifts.
The celebration of "La Promesa de Los Tres Santos Reyes" in Puerto Rico is done by a person or family who has petitioned to ask for the recovery of a person who is ill or to better their living condition because at times there was not enough food to feed the entire family. When their petition is granted, they celebrate by paying tribute to the saint petitioned with prayers and songs praising the saint, giving thanks for their protection.
During this celebration, there is food and drink but not when they are saying the rosary. This is a Beautiful tradition where they share with their family and neighbors by rejoicing in prayers and carols. During the early times, the Catholic Church considered this a pagan tradition and did not support it publicly.
By Marie M. Rivera de Morales,
Editor ArtReviewPR.com
January 9, 2015
La Sagrada Familia