Abstract
This paper examines how, each year, religious musical festivals take place in Minas Gerais, Brazil, in which musical worship is the focus. In particular, it discusses the musical worship is known as "Congado" with thousands of people coming from the small villages in which they live to take part in the ancient memorial.

Outline
Statement of Thesis
Introduction
Congado
Candombe: The Father
The Lady in the Sea
Conclusion

From the Paper
"The basis for the festival is the creation story. There is a legend told that during the time of slavery that "Our Lady of the Rosary" materialized out in the sea. In this legend the black people rescued "Our Lady of the Rosary after the whites failed in their rescue attempt. The Congado ceremony begins at the ending of Holy Week, which corresponds with Easter Sunday in the U.S. The first ceremony in the festival is the "congadeiros" meaning "The Opening of the Reign". The festival goes until sometimes in October or November. The most anticipated festival is the rosary festival which last three days and requires a month's preparation."

Tags:candombe, pageantry