“Majestic” is perhaps the best word to describe the Igreja Matriz do Senhor Bom Jesus do Monte. Dominating the landscape as you arrive at the pier on Ilha de Paquetá. The picturesque Igreja Matriz stands tall. Its simple beauty is a feast for the eyes. Especially for passengers disembarking on the island.
This church boasts a rich history. Its traditional style features Gothic lines. In the mid-18th century, Paquetá’s Catholic population yearned for its own parish. They wanted independence from the Matriz de Nossa Senhora da Piedade de Magé. Their only chapel lacked a permanent chaplain. Religious services depended on visiting priests. These priests faced difficult travel navigating the bay to Magé. The island’s sole temple the Capela de São Roque was a private church. It belonged to the São Roque farm.
Thanks to Manoel Cardoso Ramos, their wish came true. This benefactor donated land and houses. This formed the Patrimônio do Senhor Bom Jesus do Monte. In 1763, the first Igreja de Bom Jesus do Monte was built.
With this, the Parish of Paquetá was created by edict on June 21 1797. The newly built Igreja became its seat. By 1886, the church was in poor condition. It was almost in ruins. Father Joaquim da Rocha Cristallyna led the first renovation. He preserved the original temple’s characteristics. Manoel Carlos Ramos passed away on July 31 1794. He was buried beneath the church’s altar. This was as he requested in his will. The Igreja Matriz do Senhor Bom Jesus do Monte became a matriz church. This happened on August 16 1810. This was with the creation of the Parish of Senhor Bom Jesus do Monte.
Today the Igreja Matriz do Senhor Bom Jesus do Monte continues to watch over the community. It stands as a beacon. It reminds us of the island’s deep roots and the enduring power of faith. Take a moment to appreciate the peace of this sacred space. Reflect on the generations who have sought solace. Think about inspiration within these walls of the Igreja Matriz do Senhor Bom Jesus do Monte.