Hermandades

Hermandades are voluntary lay Catholic associations dedicated to religious devotion and charitable works, often organized around a patron saint or a particular festival. The term is common in Spain and many Latin American countries, where hermandades may also be called cofradías. They emerged in the late medieval period from confraternities that organized mutual aid and religious observance, and they developed into structured organizations that supervise worship, charitable activities, and public processions during Holy Week.

Activities commonly include devotional practices, catechesis, distribution of aid to the poor, support for hospitals or social services, and the maintenance of churches and artworks. A distinctive feature in many places is the Semana Santa procession, in which pasos (religious scenes) are carried through the streets by members, with participants wearing traditional robes and hoods.

Organization and governance: Hermandades are run by lay members, often called hermanos. They are governed by a board or junta directiva, with elections, financial management, and relations with parishes and dioceses. They own or oversee liturgical objects, statues, banners, and costumes, and they coordinate volunteers and musicians. The internal structure may vary by group, but most maintain formal statutes and regular meetings.

Geographic and cultural context: In Spain, notable cofradías are associated with cities such as Seville, Granada, and Córdoba; in Latin America, the models mirror Spanish roots with local adaptations. Hermandades contribute to social welfare, preserve local art and music, and reinforce community identity. In modern times, they experience changes in membership and administration, but many remain active as religious, cultural, and charitable institutions.