Don’t confuse these Catholic lay groups with the KKK

[Michie]

The Ku Klux Klan may have copied the hoods and robes worn by some confraternities, but these organizations -- which have their roots in the Middle Ages -- are about holiness, not hatred.

In Ajaccio on December 15, 2024, Pope Francis will give the concluding address at a symposium dedicated to "popular religiosity" in the Mediterranean. The event will focus on confraternities, an ancient form of Christian commitment that is enjoying a new vitality on the “Isle of Beauty” and in other places.

In 2001, the Vatican published a Directory on Popular Piety and Liturgy, which gives an overview of how the Church understands these types of devotions -- from processions to certain traditions linked to a particular sanctuary, or other acts and organizations -- as well as warning against misunderstandings and excesses.

I.MEDIA takes a look at the origins, functioning, and role of confraternities.

Where do brotherhoods come from?​

Continued below.

Don't confuse these Catholic lay groups with the KKK

The Ku Klux Klan may have copied the hoods and robes worn by some confraternities, but these organizations -- which have their roots in the Middle Ages -- are about holiness, not hatred.

aleteia.org

 

[RileyG]

Even though Spain is rather secular, it’s fascinating to see how some ancient traditions still thrive.

St. Teresa of Avila, pray for your country.