Religious pilgrimages boost local economies in Brazil

Each year the Romaria of Bom Jesus da Lapa attracts thousands of pilgrims from across Brazil, filling hotels, pousadas, restaurants and shops. The surge in visitors drives higher occupancy rates, increased sales of religious items, food and souvenirs, and creates direct and indirect jobs, benefiting the city and surrounding municipalities.

In August, about 450 participants completed the second edition of the "Fé em Movimento" walk in Marília, traveling from the Santuário São Judas Tadeu to the Igreja Nossa Senhora Aparecida. The event, organized by the sanctuary with municipal support, combined prayer, music and physical activity, and highlighted the town’s potential as a religious‑tourism destination while promoting health and community cohesion.