A national holiday, this feast day honors Mary the mother of Jesus, often referred to by Dominicans by her patron saint title, Nuestra Señora de Mercedes (Our Lady of Mercedes). Observance of this celebration dates back to 1615, the year the Mercedians, a Spanish order, established the feast day. Every year the Church of Las Mercedes in Santo Domingo attracts many followers on September 24. Typical ceremonies include masses throughout the day, the Blessing of the Waters, and a procession from the church through Santo Domingo’s Colonial Zone. Discuss
Source: The Free Dictionary