One of the most massive processions in Panama, is that of former Italian priest and saint of the Roman Catholic Church, John Bosco.
Saint John Bosco (Giovanni Melchiore Bosco – 1815–1888), was an Italian Catholic priest, educator and writer of the 19th century, who put into practice the convictions of his religion, dedicating his life to the betterment and education of poor youngsters, and employing teaching methods based on love rather than punishment, a method that is known as the preventive system.
Don Bosco succeeded in establishing a network of organizations and centers to carry on his work. In recognition of his work with disadvantaged youth, he was canonized by Pope Pius XI in 1934.
Traditionally, tens of thousands of people pay homage to Saint John Bosco, patron of Journalists and founder of the Congregation of the Salesians. This festival is held every January 31st when the congregation meets in a massive procession that walks near the basilica in the neighborhood of Calidonia in Panama City, Panama.
Below are several photographs of Don Juan Bosco located above the main entrance of the basilica that carries his name. Here we go.
Photograph of the figure of Don Juan Bosco on the upper section of the basilica that carries his name. Photo by ©Omar Upegui R.
Another view of the statue of Don Bosco above the Basilica Don Bosco in Panama City, Panama. Photo by ©Omar Upegui R.
Another perspective of the statue of Don Bosco outside his church in Panama City, Panama. Photo by ©Omar Upegui R.
The yearly procession of Don Bosco gathers approximately 25 thousand parishioners. Don Bosco is known in Panama as the Patron of Youth and Journalists, and founder of the Salesian Society.
During the event, Don Bosco’s followers walk through the streets of Calidonia to Plaza Cinco de mayo and back to the church via Justo Arosemena Street. Similar processions are held in Alanje, Portobelo, Natá de los Caballeros and Atalaya. If you visit this narrow isthmus, you will notice the strong inclination of most Panamanians towards the Roman Catholic religion. I’m a Catholic as well. Good Day.
