Jubilee of São João Batista 2020 in Barão de Cocais, MG

Tradition kept alive in pandemic times in the Serra do Caraça

Even in a year of challenges and social distancing, the 2020 Jubilee of São João Batista (Saint John the Baptist) kept alive the faith and tradition of the people of Barão de Cocais, in the Serra do Caraça. The edition, held from June 15 to 24, marked the start of a new festival format: no audience, but with online streams and broadcasts on the community radio station Morro Grande FM.

The event, organized by the City Hall, through the Department of Culture and Tourism, in partnership with the São João Batista Parish, was adapted to the measures to prevent the new coronavirus. Even so, the celebration's flame stayed lit — literally — with the raising of the mast, the lighting of the bonfire and the religious program streamed live.

With the theme #MemóriasDeSãoJoão (Memories of Saint John), the jubilee reinforced the link between tradition and modernity, connecting the community at a distance through social media and the radio waves.

Faith and memory in the live streams

The special program brought moments of spirituality and memories of past jubilees. The novena of Saint John the Baptist was streamed every day, allowing believers to follow the celebrations from home, with the same feeling of devotion that has moved the town for centuries.

The prayers, blessings and messages broadcast on digital platforms strengthened the faith and unity of the Barão de Cocais community, which, even away from the Sanctuary, took an intense part in the religious rites.

The ringing of the bells, the sound of prayers and the warmth of the bonfire served as a living reminder that tradition does not fade — it transforms. The 2020 Jubilee showed that spirituality can overcome physical barriers, connecting hearts throughout the Serra do Caraça region.

#MemóriasDeSãoJoão: reviving traditions

To keep the town's history and cultural identity alive, the City Hall launched the #MemóriasDeSãoJoão campaign on social media, recalling memorable moments from previous editions.

The posts featured photos, curiosities and records of past events, such as the school quadrilhas (square dances), the walk over the embers, the raising of the mast and the São João Corrida Rústica (cross-country run), which for years has brought together athletes and devotees in the same spirit of celebration.

These memories reinforced the importance of the Jubilee as the town's intangible heritage — a tradition that spans generations and expresses the pride of being part of the Serra do Caraça, a land of faith, culture and devotion.

The symbolism of the patron saint

Celebrated on June 24, Saint John the Baptist is remembered for his humility, faith and closeness to Christ, and is known as the festive saint and the forerunner of the Messiah. In Barão de Cocais, devotion to the patron saint is linked to the town's origins, which grew under his spiritual protection.

Even without an audience, the 2020 Jubilee kept its main symbols: the bonfire, the mast and the prayers. With every flame lit, the community renewed its hope, expressing gratitude and confidence in difficult times.

This year's celebration will be remembered as the Jubilee of resilience and faith — a reminder that, in the Serra do Caraça, the tradition of Saint John the Baptist remains unshakable, even in the face of the greatest challenges.