José Pereira Arouca e a Igreja da Ordem Terceira de São Francisco de Assis de Mariana: trabalho, devoção e fé.

Abstract

Religious associations were important vehicles for sociability and dissemination of the arts in the colonial period of Minas Gerais. They were the ones who offered support to members during the difficulties of life and assistance at the time of death. They were also the ones who sponsored the arts by hiring craftsmen to build and decorate churches in colonial towns and cities. This article aims to tell the story of the Third Order of Saint Francis of Assisi in the city of Mariana and the history of the construction of its definitive temple, highlighting the changes that were made by the builder José Pereira Arouca in relation to the original project. It also aims to show the relevance of José Pereira Arouca to the Order, as in addition to being the official builder of the church, he was also a spiritual leader within this religious association.