The Novena in Cartagena: Day 3, December 18
In Cartagena, December is not just about beach and Caribbean breeze. It's the month when the cobblestone streets of the historic center fill with a distinct murmur: the collective prayer of the novena. On the third day, December 18, the tradition takes hold. It's not just a religious appointment; it's an act of cultural resistance, a thread weaving the present with the memories of grandmothers who, amid whispers and candles, kept this custom alive amidst the tourist bustle. Today, locals and curious visitors gather to listen, perhaps for the first time, to the words that have accompanied Cartagena every Christmas.
Prayer for December 18 (traditional version)
"Blessed be the day when Mary, by the Holy Spirit, conceived the Savior. O most wise Virgin Mary, we beseech you to obtain for us from your divine Son the grace to imitate your virtues, especially the profound humility with which you recognized yourself as a servant of the Lord. Amen."
This prayer, passed down through generations in Cartagena homes, invokes the Virgin at her Annunciation. In Cartagena, it is recited with a particular cadence, where the Caribbean accent softens the syllables, as if the sea itself modulated the prayer. It's not just a text; it's an echo of faith that resonates in colonial patios and flower-filled balconies, reminding us that here, spirituality is lived with the same intensity as the tropical heat.
Prayer for every day
"To achieve eternal salvation, which is the purpose for which we are in this world, it is necessary, among other things, that we firmly believe in the principal mysteries of our holy faith. The first and most important of these is that of the Holy Trinity: that there is only one true God, and that in Him there are three distinct persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The second mystery is that of the Incarnation of the Son of God, who became man in the most pure womb of the Virgin Mary. To these mysteries, with all our heart, we give faith. Amen."
This daily prayer is the heart of the novena. In Cartagena, it is pronounced with a devotion that transcends the religious: it is an act of identity. By reciting it, communities not only affirm their faith but also reaffirm their belonging to a tradition that has survived centuries of history. In every neighborhood, from Getsemaní to Manga, these words unite neighbors and outsiders in a chorus that defies the passage of time.
Cultural impact and recommendations
The novena in Cartagena is more than just a preparation for Christmas; it is a social ritual that strengthens community bonds. In a city where tourism often imposes its rhythm, these nine days are a pause for authenticity. It is recommended to attend novenas in historic churches like the Cathedral of Santa Catalina or in squares like Parque de Bolívar, where colonial architecture frames the experience.
Iconic places to experience the novena in Cartagena
- Cathedral of Santa Catalina de Alejandría: Located in Plaza de la Proclamación, this 16th-century architectural gem offers novenas with acoustics that elevate every word. Address: Plaza de la Proclamación, Historic Center. Website: arquidiocesisdecartagena.org. View on Google Maps.
- Parque de Bolívar: The green heart of the historic center, where open-air novenas allow you to feel the Caribbean breeze while praying. Address: Between streets 38 and 39, Historic Center. View on Google Maps.
- Church of Santo Toribio de Mogrovejo: Known for its golden altar and miraculous history, it offers intimate and deeply spiritual novenas. Address: Calle de Santo Toribio, Historic Center. View on Google Maps.
- Getsemaní Neighborhood: Here novenas are lived in the streets, with neighbors opening their doors and sharing traditional sweets. It's the most authentic and community-based experience.
How to participate in Cartagena
To experience day 3 of the novena in Cartagena, look for celebrations at dusk, when the heat subsides and the city dresses in soft light. Many families open their doors in traditional neighborhoods like San Diego or La Matuna, offering a welcoming space. If you prefer a more structured environment, churches like Santo Toribio or La Tercera Orden usually organize public novenas with songs and readings. Bring a small candle as a gesture of respect, and be prepared to hear not only prayers but also carols like "El Burrito Sabanero" performed with the cheerful rhythm of the Caribbean. At the end, share a buñuelo or natilla, because in Cartagena, the novena always ends in sweet communion.
Frequently asked questions about the novena in Cartagena
- What time are the novenas? They generally begin at dusk, between 6:00 pm and 7:00 pm, when the heat decreases.
- Is there a dress code? Dressing modestly is recommended, avoiding very short or revealing clothing, especially in churches.
- Can foreign tourists participate? Absolutely! Cartagena locals are very welcoming and value genuine interest in their traditions.
- Should I bring anything? A small candle is an appreciated gesture, but not mandatory. The most important thing is to arrive with respect and openness.
- Where to get traditional sweets? At any local bakery or street stalls near churches you'll find buñuelos and natillas.
This guide is an invitation to immerse yourself in a tradition that defines Christmas in Cartagena. By reciting the prayers of day 3, you are not just following a ritual; you become part of a collective story that, like the city walls, endures against wind and tide. Share this guide to celebrate the novena in Cartagena and help keep this cultural heritage alive.
