Most Venerated Saints in Colombia

Colombia, a nation with a profound Christian tradition, embraces the practice of venerating saints, reflecting the strong influence of Catholicism in the country.

In line with many nations with a robust Christian tradition, the country honors various saints and patron saints who play a pivotal role in the spiritual life of the community. Beyond religious practices, these celebrations have become expressions of identity and unity for Colombian communities, highlighting the profound connection between faith and daily life.

Virgin of Chiquinquira: The most venerated saint in Colombia:

The most iconic and revered figure in Colombia is the Virgin of Chiquinquira, considered the protector of the country. This incarnation of the Virgin Mary takes its name from the municipality where her first miracles were witnessed. Its history dates back to 1585 in Chiquinquira when a canvas with her image, initially in poor condition, was miraculously restored to its original colors and brilliance.

During the Marian jubilee year, celebrated every seven years, the canvas is brought down from its throne to be paraded through the city streets in a solemn procession. Devotion to the Virgin of Chiquinquira is evident every Sunday and especially on July 9, her memorial day since 1919 when she was crowned as the Queen of Colombia by President Marco Fidel Suarez.

Pope Saint John Paul II, in 1986, and Pope Francis, in 2017, visited the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary of Chiquinquira, praying for peace in Colombia before the revered image.

Other Revered Saints in Colombia

There are other saints that are venerated by large numbers of parishioners throughout the country; devotion to these saints is manifested in various forms, from traditional rituals to massive events that bring together entire communities.

Saints Peter and Paul

The joint solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul is celebrated on the first Monday after June 29. This movable date is a cause for celebration in Colombia, bringing communities together to honor these fundamental apostles in Christian history.

Sacred Heart of Jesus

Devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus has endured since the early days of the Church. Celebrated in June, this cult commemorates the open Heart of Jesus and its significance in the foundation of the Church.

Saint Louis Beltran

Celebrated on October 9, Saint Louis Beltran, a Spanish missionary of the Order of Preachers, is the Patron Saint of Colombia. His evangelistic work in the northern part of the country left a lasting spiritual legacy.

La Candelaria

This celebration, coinciding with the presentation of the Lord and the purification of the Virgin Mary, is observed on February 2. Known as the “Feast of Lights,” candlelit processions add a special touch to this celebration.

The Lord of Miracles of Buga

Located in the Minor Basilica of the Lord of Miracles of Buga, this wooden-carved image of Christ on the cross is an object of devotion in Colombia. The festival in honor of the Lord of Miracles emphasizes the significance of faith in everyday life.