| Puerto Rican
Culture |
American
Majority Culture |
 |
Roman
Catholicism is the principal religion in Puerto
Rico. Puerto Ricans are very devout (Rivera-Schoendorf,
n.d.) However, some revivalist sects, particularly Pentecostals
and Jehovah’s Witnesses, have made
inroads, especially with people of a lower socio-economic
class. Many of the religious ceremonies are part of family
gatherings and are the center of the gathering (Rivera-Schoendorf
n.d.).
|
Although Protestantism
is the majority religion, many religions are represented
in the United States. There is separation between church
and state. |
| There is freedom
of religion. However, religious celebrations may influence
or be associated with certain areas of teaching. Classrooms
may display religious symbols such as
the cross. |
There is separation
between Church and State. Religious symbols are
not displayed in public buildings, including
public schools. Religion does not play a part in the public
school setting.
|
| Puerto Ricans
celebrate Noche Buena (Christmas Eve). In addition, many
celebrate from Christmas until the Epiphany on January
6th, which celebrates the arrival of the three kings bearing
gifts to Jesus Christ at the time of his birth. The festival
of Los Tres Reyes Magos is one of the most important Puerto
Rican religious traditions (Religion, 2004). |
Christmas
is generally celebrated on one day, December 25th. Many
people also celebrate Christmas Eve with a special dinner. |
| Upon the death
of a close relative, family members, including children,
may wear black to express mourning. In addition, some
children may also wear a black scarf on their heads as
a sign of mourning for a mother or a father. Traditionally,
loved ones used to save a lock of the deceased’s
hair to keep as a remembrance. |
Death of a
close relative or family member is generally mourned for
one week. Special clothing to mark mourning is not worn
outside the traditional services. |
