In the 16th century, the Brotherhood of the Holy Spirit of the Congos of Villa Mella was founded by enslaved Africans and mestizos. This brotherhood embodies one of the most significant traditional socio-cultural expressions of the Dominican Republic. It was deeply rooted in the history, geography, and culture of the country, and in particular, that of the community of Villa Mella. Brotherhood of the Holy Spirit of the Congos of Villa Mella is renowned for music, dance, and its popular festivities. The musicians of the Brotherhood play congos. These congos are hand drums that the Holy Spirit is attributed with inventing. The Brotherhood is currently open to members of all sexes, regardless of origin or gender. Historical reasons make the Brotherhood an influential part of the cultural identity of its members and the region.
Based on accounts from the community of Villa Mella and Fradique Lizardo, the legend of the Brotherhood of the Holy Spirit of the Congos of Villa Mella asserts that some time ago, some people were seeking out a place to build their town when they found the Holy Spirit lying on a Copey trunk. As He turned to face the viewer, He was holding a white dove, in a flying position, surrounded by several musical instruments (congo mayor, conguito or conguito minor, canota, and maraca). When He was present, the brothers of this society were ordered to play the instruments and dance at wakes and other religious festivals.
The brotherhood has undertaken this task of organizing and participating in social and cultural events, namely the Virgen del Rosario (October 7) and the Holy Spirit (Pentecost Sunday), as well as participating in the funeral ceremonies of the deceased who are in one way or another attached to the Congos' traditions. The Festival of the Holy Spirit, celebrated at Pentecost, features prayers, dances, and singing. During the ceremony, there is music played on congos and a procession with the dove that symbolizes the Holy Spirit. This happens during the wake, during the procession to the cemetery, and on the ninth day of mourning. Prayers are recited in front of a three-tiered catafalque holding a doll that represents the deceased. Three years after the deceased has passed away, the same catafalque will be prepared, and the living will take leave of the deceased, who will now become an ancestral figure. On this occasion, all the guests dance to the music of the congoles. Unfortunately, the perpetuation of the Brotherhood has been threatened by a lack of interest in the African and mixed cultures. The effects of urbanization, migration, unemployment, and standardization of values today reinforce prejudices and lead to a lack of understanding of the Brothers of the Brotherhood.
References