Worldview

As my Colombian friend confirmed, the most common worldview I have seen in Colombia is religion through Catholicism. The Catholic perspective in many aspects of society and it is nearly impossible to pass through a city and not see the local Catholic church. To put a number to it, roughly 79% of Colombians testify as Catholic. And about 13% are Protestant. 

Communication Between Cultures, a book by Larry Samovar, separates worldview into three basic categories: atheism, spirituality, and religion. These are broad categories that help separate different ways people view life. 

As previously stated, Catholicism is the largest religion in Colombia. Even if one is not a part of the religion, the effects are inescapable. However, in general, Colombians are tolerant to other religions. Although they may not condone other’s beliefs, most will not outwardly shame them either. For the most part, it seems the different religious groups leave each other alone.

Because of the prevalent Catholic presence, many views of life are shared among the people. Some influences include common sayings such as “Si Dios quiere” (God willing) and “Gracias a Dios” (Thanks to God). Other influences include the emphasis on marriage for lifelong partners.

There is also an assumption, whether one truly believes it or not, that all things happen “because God wants it.” Many believe God is the determines morality and the actions we make in life will directly affect where we go in death. The main view concerning death is after we die, we go to either heaven or hell. How we treat others and follow God in this life determines whether we go to hell, a terrible place void of God’s presence, or heaven, the home of God and all the angels.

One interesting aspect to this belief that our actions matter is the saying I learned this phrase from my Colombian friend: “Él que peca y reza, empata” or “He who sins and prays, breaks even overall.” From this perspective, as long as you confess your sins to God and ask for forgiveness, you will not face consequences for your actions. Or at least you won’t face consequences concerning whether you go to hell rather than heaven after death. 

Catholic religion is very important to Colombian culture and even if someone doesn’t belong to the church, the effects of it are spread throughout the entire culture. From everyday sayings, to how one approaches morality, Catholic influence is everywhere in Colombia.