Major Religions-
The official religion of Chile is Roman Catholicism, representing 59% of the population. Another 16% are protestant, 22% atheist, and only 3% are anything else. Because Catholicism is so prominent in Chile, it has a large effect on their holidays, schooling, and laws. For example, many of the schools in Chile are catholic and even the public schools teach Catholicism in their class rooms. Another example is the fact that abortion in Chile is illegal and divorce was only made legal in 2004, due to influence from the Church.
Religious Holidays-
Easter, Holy Saturday & Good Friday: Kind of like in the US, Chileans eat no meet, except fish, for the whole weekend. Also, Holy Saturday is the quiet, peaceful day as people get ready for the festivities of Sunday. Easter begins for most, with special church services. Afterward, people have elaborate meals, and family gatherings that last the rest of the day.
St. Peter & St. Paul's Day (June 21): Largely celebrated in Valparaíso and other coast cities, this holiday celebrated both St. Peter, St. Paul, and the martyrdom of Rome. They are the patron saints of fisherman and therefore highly important to the coastal South American country.
Our Lady of Mount Carmel (July 16): This holiday is to commemorate Mary, who is the patron saint of Chile.
Assumption of Mary (August 15): This is a feast day that is associated with the ascension of Mary into heaven after she died.
Reformation Day (October 31): Even though Chile is primarily Catholic, reformation day is to recognise and please the increasing number of protestants in Chile.
All Saints Day: Holiday to recognise all of the saints.
Immaculate Conception (November 8): This day is to celebrate the conception of Jesus in the Virgin Mary and occurs nine months before Christmas.
Christmas: Chileans have many of the same traditions that we do. Such as, Santa and his reindeer, Christmas cards, carols, Christmas movies, and a large shopping season. People also decorate their homes, give presents, and share large family meals. However, presents are traditionally given out on midnight Christmas morning. But... and this is the weird part... it's HOT. I mean like really hot.
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