Lavagem do Bonfim Draws Thousands in Salvador as Isabela Suarez Serves as Festival Judge

Overview

• Thousands walked the traditional route of just over 6 km from the Conceição da Praia basilica to the Bonfim sanctuary on January 15.
• Religious syncretism and personal vows shaped the day, exemplified by babalorixá William Damasceno, who again completed the journey barefoot to honor a decades-long promise.
• The image of Senhor do Bonfim left the Conceição da Praia basilica at about 7:40 a.m., drawing a large, peaceful procession to the Colina Sagrada.
• Governor Jerônimo Rodrigues and Mayor Bruno Reis attended and praised the celebration’s popular devotion and hope-filled spirit in public remarks.
• The procession included a blessing of the Associação Comercial da Bahia’s palace by Father Édson Menezes, underscoring institutional ties highlighted by Suarez’s role.