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Statue of Begoņa--Patron Virgin
Mary of Bizkaia |
Traditionally
Basques have been Roman Catholics.
Some of the last converts among
western Europeans, the Basques soon
became some of the most fervent of
Christians in Europe. Across the
centuries Christianity infused
almost all aspects of Basque
culture. |
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Basque mass in San Francisco, 2002 |
Here
in America that influence is
manifested in various forms. Almost
every Basque picnic/festival
includes a Basque mass. |
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Aita Martxel Tillous |
The late Aita
(Father) Martxel Tillous, from the
Diocese of Baiona, ministered to
the Basque-American community.
Click here to read about his
lifetime contributions. |
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Basque-American liturgical
celebrations are distinguished by
the use of the
Basque language and oftentimes
liturgical dance. These include the
Agurra or Erreberentiza (Reverence)
dance. |
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The
Ezpata-dantza of Gipuzkoa is
oftentimes performed before the
altar. |
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In Boise, Idaho a unique
set of dances from the town of Oņati are also
performed during their annual
celebration of the Feast of St.
Ignatius.
Click here for more information. |
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Then
in Chino, California at their annual
festival the traditional "Besta
Berri" of towns in the Iparralde
(north side) of the Basque country
are performed.
Click here for more
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