Folk Saint Series: Roberto Clemente

I’m starting a series between my regular posts to recognize and pay homage to folk (or “unofficial”) saints, beginning with icon and local hero, Roberto Clemente.

Historically, saints were decided based on popular acclaim (a practice that still exists in folk traditions). Before Christianity became a state religion, “official” saints weren’t a thing. The introduction of bureaucracy, however, created the idea of formal saints who were “suitable for veneration” by the church. Sometimes this decision takes centuries—Joan of Arc wasn’t canonized until 1920, nearly 500 years after her death.

In terms of folk magic, however, this provides an opportunity to invoke those spirits who, for whatever reason, aren’t canonized. In some cases (for those who recognize the official endorsement) these saints will accomplish the kind of work that “official” saints will not.

Today’s folk saint is Roberto Clemente, a Puerto Rican professional baseball player who played 18 years for the Pittsburgh Pirates. He died in a plane crash at the age of 38 on his way to deliver aid to victims of a massive earthquake in Nicaragua. He became the first Latin-American player to be honored in the Hall of Fame.

Roberto spent most of his off-season involved in charity work and was dedicated to helping underprivileged communities, especially by creating opportunities for children. When emergency relief funds and supplies for earthquake victims were continuously diverted from their destinations due to corruption, he hoped his presence on the plane would ensure delivery. It crashed off the coast of Isla Verde due to engine failure on New Year’s Eve, 1972.

Clemente was a devout Catholic and there have been several attempts to have him canonized. He is invoked as a guardian of athletes, victims of racism and natural disasters, Pittsburgh, and Puerto Rico.

To learn more about me and my Appalachian folk practice, including info on folk witchcraft, mountain magic, and hearthcraft, please visit gritchenwitch.com or join my Patreon at patreon.com/gritchenwitch.

Folk Saint Series: Roberto Clemente

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