Chile

Chile

Tuesday, April 23, 2013

Religion in Chile

Pinochet and Pope John Paul II
Religion in Chile

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.