Feast of San Lazaro – Celebrating Faith and Healing on December 17
The Feast of San Lazaro, also known as the Feast of Saint Lazarus, is a cherished religious and cultural event celebrated annually on December 17. This special day honors Saint Lazarus of Bethany—affectionately called San Lazaro in Spanish-speaking communities—and holds deep significance across Latin America, the Caribbean, and beyond. The celebration is marked by profound devotion and vibrant traditions that unite communities in faith and hope.
According to Christian tradition, San Lazaro was a close friend of Jesus Christ and is renowned for being raised from the dead by Jesus. This miraculous event has made San Lazaro a powerful symbol of faith, hope, and divine healing. As a result, the Feast of San Lazaro is an important observance in both the Catholic and Orthodox Church calendars, representing spiritual renewal and the enduring power of miracles.
Historical Origins of the Feast of San Lazaro
The Feast of San Lazaro traces its roots to 4th-century Greece, where a shrine was built in honor of Saint Lazarus. Over the centuries, the celebration spread widely, especially after San Lazaro was recognized as the patron saint of those suffering from leprosy, skin diseases, and other chronic illnesses.
Throughout history, this feast has served as a beacon of hope for the sick and marginalized. Millions around the world participate in rituals and prayers, seeking the saint’s intercession. Today, the Feast of San Lazaro stands as a powerful symbol of faith and healing, drawing together people from diverse backgrounds in shared devotion.
Traditional Practices and Celebrations
The Feast of San Lazaro is distinguished by unique customs that vary by region but are unified by themes of faith, healing, and devotion. One of the most recognizable traditions is for devotees to wear purple—the color associated with San Lazaro—and embark on pilgrimages to shrines and churches dedicated to the saint. These pilgrimages are believed to bring blessings, protection, and miraculous cures to those who undertake them with sincere faith.
Many communities observe the feast with prayer vigils, candlelight processions, and offerings of flowers. These acts of devotion express gratitude and reinforce a collective hope for healing and divine guidance, fostering a strong sense of community and spiritual solidarity among participants.
