Vassals of Candelaria de Caracas officially recognized as a brotherhood

Published at: 26/05/2026 09:59 AM

In the Minor Basilica of Saint Peter the Apostle, the act of formal recognition of the Vassals of Candelaria of Caracas as a brotherhood was held, in a ceremony that brought together religious tradition and the preservation of one of the most representative cultural expressions in the country.

The event, linked to devotion to the Virgin of Candlemas, has its roots in the Santiago de la Punta parish, in Mérida, and was declared Cultural Heritage of the Nation in 2020. Its members, known as Promesseros and Promesseras, keep alive a tradition of almost two centuries based on dances, prayers and acts of penance every February 2nd and 3rd.

During the ceremony, the imposition of the symbols of rank of the Caracas brotherhood, made up of cultivators who for 28 years have maintained this expression of faith in the capital, was made official. In this context, Eduardo Omaña was invested as First Captain; Leonardo Carrero as Second Captain and Belkis Negrín as Third Captain.

Henry Ardila was also recognized as First Captain Emeritus for his career and dedication to the preservation of this popular and religious tradition.

The incorporation of Belkis Negrín to the governing body of the brotherhood also reflects the historical evolution of this demonstration, originally made up only of men due to their symbolic representation of agricultural work, but which over time actively integrated women as captains and promisers.

The formal recognition of the group in Caracas is the result of a research and organization process developed by its members, who obtained the support of the Merida brotherhood and the Catholic Church as a Public Association of the Lay Faithful.

From now on, Los Vassallos de la Candelaria de Caracas will establish their headquarters in the parish of San Pedro, with the objective of preserving and projecting this tradition in the Venezuelan capital.

MINCULTURE/ Mazo News Team