Parish of the Child God (Archdiocese of São Salvador da Bahia)

Paróquia Menino Deus
Dedication:	Child God
Venerated Saints:	None specified
Diocese:	Archdiocese of São Salvador da Bahia
Deanery:
Address:	Rua do Tesouro, s/n, Centro Histórico, Salvador, BA 40020-056
Coordinates:	-12.9789, -38.5100
City:	Salvador, BA
Subdivision:	Bahia
Country:	Brazil
County:
Website:	No website specified
Founded:	1723
School:	Yes
Email:	,

Paróquia Menino Deus (Parish of the Child God) is a territorial parish in the Archdiocese of São Salvador da Bahia, located in the historic center of Salvador, Bahia, Brazil. Dedicated to the Child Jesus (Menino Deus), the parish church venerates a revered image of the Infant Christ, a focus of popular devotion in Bahia since the eighteenth century.

The parish was established in 1723, with the current church building constructed in the mid-eighteenth century in baroque style. It forms part of the rich colonial religious heritage of Salvador's Pelourinho district, protected by IPHAN as national heritage. As of December 15, 2025, the parish continues to serve the local community and welcome pilgrims drawn to the devotion of the Menino Deus, particularly during Christmas celebrations and the annual feast.

The image of the Child God, traditionally dressed in ornate vestments, remains a cherished symbol of innocence and divine protection in Bahian Catholic tradition.

History

The Parish of the Child God was canonically erected in 1723, though devotion to the Menino Deus in Salvador predates this, associated with an image brought to Brazil in the colonial period.

The church was built in the eighteenth century, reflecting the expansion of religious foundations in the city during the baroque era. It has undergone restorations to preserve its colonial structure and artwork.

The parish maintains its role within the historic center, contributing to the spiritual life of residents and visitors in the UNESCO-recognized Pelourinho area.

Special features

• Veneration of the image of the Menino Deus (Child God), traditionally adorned and central to Christmas and feast day celebrations
• Location within Salvador's historic center, facilitating participation in major city-wide religious events
• Integration into the colonial religious patrimony of Bahia

Relics

According to established Catholic tradition, the main altar contains deposited relics, as is customary in dedicated churches. Specific details regarding the saints associated with these relics are not publicly documented in available sources. This follows common practice where first-class relics, often of martyrs, are sealed within the altar.

Architecture

The church, constructed in the eighteenth century, exemplifies Bahian colonial baroque architecture, with a simple façade and interior ornamentation typical of the period.

It is protected as part of Brazil's national heritage.

Art and devotional features

The principal devotional focus is the image of the Menino Deus, an Infant Jesus statue venerated in elaborate vestments, reflecting popular piety.

The interior includes colonial altarpieces and paintings consistent with Bahian sacred art of the era.