Exploring professional boundaries of Religious Studies

an experiential journey at the São Francisco Cultural Center

Abstract

The present work aims to present the results of Supervised Internship II, carried out at the São Francisco Cultural Center, highlighting the experiences lived during this curricular component. Methodologically, this is a study with a qualitative and bibliographic approach, based on reports of the experiences lived during this curricular experience. The specific objectives established were: to contextualize the São Francisco Cultural Center; to plan activities to be developed at the São Francisco Cultural Center; and to relate theory and practice during the activities carried out at the São Francisco Cultural Center. Methodologically, this study was conducted based on the following activities: visits to the cultural center; readings; research in databases such as SciELO and Google Scholar; organization and exhibition of ex-votos. The results obtained during the internship aimed to conduct an innovative investigation in the field of Religious Studies, exploring the ex-voto collection of the Cultural Center in order to highlight the significance of popular religiosity and the culture represented by these objects. The study included an exhibition of the votive traditions of the faithful, demonstrating gratitude for the graces received. Through this intervention, it was possible to understand the history and spirituality related to these objects of connection between the Divine and the human, as well as the reasons why people materialize their faith through these ex-votos. Therefore, it is necessary to emphasize the visibility that should be given to objects related to ex-votos, which was achieved through the exhibition, as well as to deepen studies on the theme under investigation.