The June festival, one of the most beloved traditions in Brazil, brings with it music, dances, typical foods and, above all, a lot of faith. At the heart of this celebration are three saints who, each in their own way, left a profound spiritual legacy. The festivities, which light up the June nights with bonfires and joy, are dedicated to Saint Anthony, Saint John and Saint Peter, figures who brought blessings and miracles to the people.

These saints, historical figures whose lives and actions influenced culture and spirituality of many, have their stories celebrated with fervor during the June festival. “Celebrations are opportunities to experience communion and share life, fundamental pillars of the Christian faith”, explains pastoralist at Colégio Marista Paranaense Jean Marcos Gregol.

Enjoying the festival is important, but understanding the history behind each cultural event enriches the experience. So, discover the stories of the figures that inspire so many traditions and rituals!

1. Saint Anthony: the matchmaking saint

On June 13th, eyes turn to Saint Anthonypopularly known as the “Saint Matchmaker”. Born in Lisbon, Portugal, in the 12th century, Antônio de Pádua died on June 13, 1231, in Padua, Italy, being celebrated for his preaching and miracles to this day. His reputation as a matchmaker comes from legends that associate him with helping women find good husbands.

During the June festivals, sympathies for Santo Antônio are common. Who has never heard of placing the saint’s image upside down in a glass of water or burying his statue until a marriage proposal is granted? Or finding the statue of the saint in a piece of cake as a sign of achieving grace? These traditions reflect the faith and hope placed in the saint, making him an indispensable icon of celebrations.

In addition to his popular fame, the Franciscan friar was an exemplary model of faith, dedication and care for the poorest. He was recognized for his eloquent preaching, rooted in the gospel, and for his simplicity of life. Saint Anthony’s sermons are notable literary works, which enchanted the people who came to confess with him. This fame led to him being recognized as a saint 11 months after his death and, in 1946, proclaimed “Doctor of the Universal Church”, with the title Doctor Evangelicus.

2. Saint John: the protector of the harvest

June 24th is dedicated to Saint John the Baptist, one of the most popular saints in Christianity. He is known as the “Protector of the Harvests”, and his celebrations are marked by bonfires, which symbolize light and divine protection. According to tradition, Elizabeth, his mother, lit a fire to warn Mary about the birth of her son. John the Baptist.

The festivities of São João are synonymous with joy and abundance. The square dances, with their lively dances and colorful clothes, fill squares and streets throughout Brazil. The bonfire tradition, in addition to warming the cold June nights, is a moment of union and spiritual renewal, evoking the memory of Jesus’ baptism in the waters of the Jordan River, performed by John the Baptist.

Furthermore, he fondly remembers Saint John the Baptist, for being the prophet who announces the Good News, being the precursor of Jesus Christ. He prepared the arrival of the Messiah and, although he became known and people sought him, he removed himself from the center and placed Christ in it: “He must increase and I must decrease” (John 3:30). John believed that in Jesus a new era was taking place, marked by justice and truth.

3. Saint Peter: the guardian of fishermen

Closing the June festivitieson June 29th, we have Saint Peter, known as the “Guardian of Fishermen”. He was one of Jesus’ closest apostles and is considered the first Pope of the Catholic Church. According to tradition, he holds the keys to heaven and is responsible for controlling the climate, being especially venerated by fishermen and farmers.

During festivals in honor of Saint Peter, processions and religious celebrations are common, asking for good harvests and protection for fishermen. Furthermore, the celebrations keep the bonfire tradition alive, reinforcing the community bond and faith.

By Luiza Lafuente