A Note on Patronales y un "chin" Mas

October 4th is the Feast Day of St. Francis of Assisi, patron saint of Bánica. Preparations for this feast begin at least a week before the 4th and last about a week after. What a celebration! Although there is some religious component to Patronales, it is mostly a time when families from all over the country (and even Haiti!) gather to commemorate the “promesas” this famous Saint has fulfilled for them as well as enjoy any kind of events going on in town. Patronales would not be a celebration without music. The sindicos and regidores—equivalent to mayors—invite popular Dominican singers such as bachatero Joe Veras and merenguero Omega to get Baniqueros pumped and excited for this occasion. For about five nights in a row, there is an event going on down the street: music, singers, dancing, food, drinks, and tons of people!


I can honestly say I enjoyed a few of the events held down the street; however, I was disappointed to realize what a lack of understanding Baniqueros have in regards to saints. Despite Fr. O’Hare and Bishop Grullon’s efforts to explain that saints serve as role models and intercessors, Baniqueros often think saints like San Francisco have a god-like characteristic. They touch, praise and pray to San Francisco more often than they pray to God. Please pray that their devotion may be centered in Christ and that they may be able to comprehend the beautiful role of saints in the Catholic Church as role models and intercessors.

On a sadder note, a mayor committed suicide last Thursday. No one knows the reason behind his decision; however, his wife and three kids need all the prayers they can get. Their youngest child named Jairo is a student at our parochial school; thus, we will be sure to give him all the emotional support possible. For two nights, Banica and neighboring campos showed their solidarity by lighting candles along the side of the roads. It was so touching but beautiful at the same time! Often times you hear that Baniqueros are jealous of each other; but when it comes to sharing someone’s grief, they forget their differences and come together as one. Unfortunately for us catechists teaching in the public schools, our students had to miss another week (in addition to Patronales week) because most of the teachers were accompanying the mayor’s family during the viewing and burial.

Please pray for the soul of Javier Cedano, and the family and friends that grief his absence.