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| Pinochet and Pope John Paul II |
Since the beginning of the Conquest
and Colonization in the New World was justified by the oppressor/
conquistadors in the name of religion to humanize the native peoples
and colonize. The influence of the Church is still very present in
Latin America, although it has had an increase of people converting
to other forms of belief systems. In Chile the official church for
many years was the Roman Catholic Church until the late 19th
century. Freedom of religion is allowed, however the influence of the
Catholic Church is very much still present in the country: divorce
was legalized in 2004 which is still fairly recent.
About 70% of Chileans are Catholic.
Like other pueblos, cities or villages
in Latin America, Chile's cities have large Catholic churches in the
main plazas or side of the roads.
Pope visits Chile: In 1987, Pope Paul II visited Chile
during Augusto Pinochet dictatorship. The Pope's visit to Chile
sparked controversy. Those in favor to return in favor of the a
democratic Chile wanted the Pope to join their side and endorse their
cause, and speak against Pinochet human rights violations and regime.
Church leaders believed that the Pope would give Pinochet a hard time
about this political power. Others believed that no matter what the
Pope told him, Pinochet, would not listen to him—he did not listen
to anyone. Ultimately, the church believed that that pope's presence
in Chile would help decrease the political power.
Pinochet and the pope were to meet in
La Modena a government house. However, Pinochet would not be
attending mass. Chilean government refused to give news coverage.
After this incedent, the bishop critized the government; the
governemt protested in the Vatican in regards to the Pope's
statement.
Ultimately, the Catholic Church was an
import part of defending human rights in Chile since the military and
Pinochet came into power.
More on Chiles Religion:
Chile's Patron Saint: Padre Hurtado
Saint Albertro Hurtado is known
as Padre Hurtado, he is the most known saint. His life was dedicated
to helping, housing and caring for poor children.
Evangelicals or evangelicos are
Chile's church goers. They are the most lively group. You can hear
music and celebrations.
Mormons:
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter
day-Saint is a Christian religion growing quickly in Chile. There are
churches along the country and walking distance of Santiago.
Non-Christians:
There are very few Jews,
Muslims and other religions in Chile.
8% of Chileans are agnostic. Chile's
first female president described herself as agnostic.
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