The devotion to the Virgen del Carmen began in the early 19th century in the coastal towns of Spain. The fishing communities would hold processions and venerate the image of the Virgin in a makeshift chapel built by the sea. This tradition spread to other parts of the world, wherever Catholic seafaring communities could be found.
The Virgin del Carmen is often depicted as standing on a seashell, surrounded by angels and carrying the child Jesus in her arms. Her image is carried in colorful processions, accompanied by the sound of drums, flutes, and hymns sung by the faithful. The statue of the Virgin is often taken aboard fishing boats, where she is honored with and offerings of flowers and candles.
One of the most well-known processions of the Virgen del Carmen takes place in the coastal town of Marbella, in southern Spain. The procession begins at the church of Our Lady of the Incarnation and winds its way through the streets to the beach, where the statue of the Virgin is taken aboard a fishing boat. The procession is led by the town’s fishermen, who carry the statue on their shoulders while the crowd sings hymns and offers prayers.
In South America, the devotion to the Virgen del Carmen is also strong. In Chile, for example, the feast of the Virgin is celebrated with much fanfare. Processions are held in many towns and cities, and the faithful make offerings of flowers and candles at her shrines.
The Virgen del Carmen is also revered by the Navajo people, who have a long-standing tradition of fishing in the waters of the Colorado River. They believe that the Virgin watches over them as they fish, protects them from danger, and provides a bountiful catch.
The devotion to the Holy Marys of the sea is an important part of the seafaring culture around the world. It is a reminder that despite the many dangers of the ocean, there is a force greater than ourselves that watches over us and keeps us safe. The Virgen del Carmen is a symbol of hope, faith, and protection for all those who make their living on the sea.
In conclusion, the Holy Marys of the sea are an integral part of the seafaring culture around the world. The devotion to the Virgen del Carmen is a reminder of the dangers of the ocean, but also of the faith and hope that keep seafarers going in the face of adversity. This tradition has endured for centuries and will continue to thrive as long as there are those who make their living on the sea.