Religions and Latin Americans

Catholicism has long been a presence in Latin American culture, and to this day, it plays an active role in the lives of million of Latinos. While many practicers of Catholics are somewhat luke-warm in their religious fervor--following tenants that suit their lifestyle--Latinos are often much more involved in their church communities or consider themselves much more devout. One marked example of Latinos tendency to act within the guidelines of Catholicism is the significantly lower divorce rate amongst Latin American families. According to a study, Latin Americans have a lower divorce rate than Caucasians, African Americans, Indian Americans, and Asian Americans. This is not to say, however, that the marriages of Latin Americans are more stable--in fact, their is quite a high rate of separation within the Latino community. 

On a personal note, the religious life of my own Latino family members is certainly interesting, and a testament to both the evolving relationship between humans and religions, as well as the characteristic religious devotion of Latin Americans. My grandfather grew up poor and barefoot in the mountains of Puerto Rico, while my grandmother wasn't much better off in the city slums of the island. Both their parents were devout Catholics, but once my grandfather came to the mainland, he was evangelized to by Jehovah's Witnesses, and--eager to assimilate and find a support system in a semi-foreign land--joined their ranks and remained practicing for over fifteen years. And this wasn't casual devotion. This meant no birthdays, no Christmas celebrations, no exuberant parties of any kind. For a culture so supportive of celebrations of all kinds (hello, Quincenera!) this was certainly difficult for my grandmother to adhere to. And like a good Latina wife, she tried to support her husband's unusual decision (though she did sneak my mother and her siblings birthday presents when she could). 

Eventually my grandfather stopped practicing, though the reasons remain unclear to this day. Now, both my grandmother and grandfather attend a traditional Presbyterian church--another uncharacteristic choice for old-country-esque Puerto Ricans. But like their parents devoted themselves wholly to Catholicism (not using birth control, giving up tithes though their economic situation was somewhat dire, etc.) my grandfather followed the Jehovah's Witness religion with equal fervor, and now--though they both have no reason to be so active--they attend church twice a week, volunteer, and tithe. 

It's an unusual thing, but the role of religion in Latin American life is unusual. It's not native to the place--it was brought over by the Spanish settlers--it has somehow become synonymous with its people.