The view of the mossoroense written press on the devotees of Santa Luzia

Abstract

The objective of our investigation is to capture the representations produced about the historical and religious figure of Santa Luzia. In this process, the problematization of the written press, specifically the newspapers O Mossoroense and Defato, will be of fundamental importance to understand the religious expression of the people, boosting local commerce through the production of handicrafts and other economic activities. At the end of the year, specifically the last few months, the team responsible for publishing articles and reports understands that a readership is eagerly waiting to consume this type of news. Healing testimonies are almost always printed on the pages of periodicals, giving voice and images of common people, and they are the ones who help maintain the faith, strengthening bonds of affection between devotees, priests and the high hierarchy of the Catholic Church. The actions of priests, among other religious people, will also be researched, as many of them, along with other popular Catholics, are responsible for organizing the festivities honoring Saint Luzia. “The Most Beautiful Voice” can also be included in the creative acts of devotees, Catholic and popular leaders. Through this cultural event, several people from Mossoró gained visibility in the Mossoró music scene and still bear fruit to this day. Through a structure of feelings, a concept by Raymond Willians, we visualize the month of December as a period of creative acts where artists from the city of Mossoro mobilize to produce arts and testimonies in an attempt to maintain the Christian faith. Another point that cannot be forgotten are the Santa Luzia magazines, attached to the December newspaper Defato, which produced many reports from popular people and religious leaders. The issue of bibliography about the Virgin of Syracuse is also another point that we cannot forget, as there is a gap to be filled by addressing a connection between the representations about Santa Luzia, the written press and the people of Mossoró.