Hundreds of Nicaraguans sang in praise of the Virgin Mary at flower-and-light-filled altars set up in church parking lots and vehicles around Miami to mark the Dec. 8 feast of the Immaculate Conception. This year’s festivities, known as 'gritería,' carry special significance given the ongoing crackdowns on religion in Nicaragua and immigrant communities in the U.S.
We’re going to do it no matter what, said Neri Flores, who came from Chicago to honor tradition with his family. Alongside them, other families assembled altars adorned with statues of the Virgin Mary, symbolizing hope and resilience despite government oppression back in Nicaragua.
Nicaragua's current government has been accused of stifling religious celebrations, intensifying a climate of fear among its citizens, as many priests and laypeople face imprisonment or exile for opposition to the regime.
At Miami’s St. John Bosco Catholic Parish, a prominent hub for the Nicaraguan community, over a thousand attendees gathered, sharing their faith and fostering a sense of community. Pastor Yader Centeno encouraged participants to convey their trust and commitment to religious freedom back in Nicaragua.
Some altars featured elaborate decorations, while others showcased simple yet heartfelt creations, all grounded in tradition and gratitude. Participants expressed a shared desire for peace and freedom for their families still in Nicaragua, highlighting their connection to cultural roots and religious beliefs.
Amidst the ceremony, clergy such as Rev. Silvio Báez called for speaking out against oppression, reminding attendees that the Virgin Mary would not forget their struggles. Celebrations continued as communities came together to honor their faith, connecting their past with hope for a future untainted by fear and repression.
We’re going to do it no matter what, said Neri Flores, who came from Chicago to honor tradition with his family. Alongside them, other families assembled altars adorned with statues of the Virgin Mary, symbolizing hope and resilience despite government oppression back in Nicaragua.
Nicaragua's current government has been accused of stifling religious celebrations, intensifying a climate of fear among its citizens, as many priests and laypeople face imprisonment or exile for opposition to the regime.
At Miami’s St. John Bosco Catholic Parish, a prominent hub for the Nicaraguan community, over a thousand attendees gathered, sharing their faith and fostering a sense of community. Pastor Yader Centeno encouraged participants to convey their trust and commitment to religious freedom back in Nicaragua.
Some altars featured elaborate decorations, while others showcased simple yet heartfelt creations, all grounded in tradition and gratitude. Participants expressed a shared desire for peace and freedom for their families still in Nicaragua, highlighting their connection to cultural roots and religious beliefs.
Amidst the ceremony, clergy such as Rev. Silvio Báez called for speaking out against oppression, reminding attendees that the Virgin Mary would not forget their struggles. Celebrations continued as communities came together to honor their faith, connecting their past with hope for a future untainted by fear and repression.
