Religious beliefs in Puerto Rico

The Constitution assures free will for all beliefs. Traditionally, the Roman Catholic Church is the major religion Puerto Rico. At present, around 85% of the island’s populations are Roman Catholics, an inheritance from its centuries of Spanish settlement. All cities in the country have at least one building of Catholic Church and generally placed at the plaza or town center. Protestantism and Judaism which were cover up under the Spanish rule have been supported under the American regime. At present, supporters to Protestant churches are 8% of the population and non-religious 2.3%, and other 3%.

In 1916, the Evangelical Union was formed in Puerto Rico, comprising of United Brethren, Presbyterian, Methodist, Disciples of Christ, Congregational, Christian, Baptist, and Union denominations. Other denominations comprised in the country are the Seventh Day Adventists, Pentecostal, Church of Jesus, Lutheran, and Christian and Missionary Alliance.

Puerto Ricans frequently call the isle Borinquen, from Borikén, its native Taíno name. Taíno spiritual practices have been discovered to a level by a handful of supporters. Several African religious practices have been organized since the coming of African slaves. Specifically, the Yoruba faiths of Santeria and the Kongo came from Palo Mayombe attaining devotion among few persons who exercise some manner of African traditional religion.

Ceremonies like baptisms, funerals, marriages, processions, vigils and weddings occur within the range of Catholic observances. Puerto Ricans observe spiritual and political holidays with great feeling of excitement by playing music, singing, banqueting and drinking in recognizing the sanctified or blessed day. These ceremonies is considered as private affairs which attended by the family members and close friends.