O ofício das rezadeiras e rezadores católicos em Mata Grande/AL (1940-2022)

Abstract

This article has as its object the practices and craft of rezadeiras and rezadores in Mata Grande/AL and brings general and local concepts about how the practice still works, its meaning, its importance and how maintenance occurs. From this perspective, it is intended to produce knowledge about local aspects, characterize their religiosity and present aspects about the performance of the mourners in the municipality in question. From a religious and cultural point of view, the objective is to explain how the popular Catholic ritual occurs with its various meanings and to mention some relevant obstacles in relation to the practice. The article was produced in person, based on five interviews with men and women. Such interviews were supported by pre-produced questions that took into account the research objectives. For the understanding and reflection of the aspects studied here, bibliography already produced on the subject was used. The results show that there is still a great connection with the traditionality of the practice, all of them remain active in relation to the craft and seek appreciation at the same time. These are individuals who see themselves as responsible for keeping the craft and belief alive and rely on Catholicism and their faith.