Holy Dirt Requests
Within the Santuario lies a small room housing el pocito — the well of holy dirt. To reach into it, a visitor must kneel, just as Bernardo Abeyta knelt when he discovered the crucifix of Chapel of our Lord of Espuipulas on this very spot on Good Friday, 1810. Since that day, thousands of pilgrims have come to Chimayó seeking spiritual, emotional, and physical healing. Many rub the dirt on areas of the body in need of care; others carry it home to sick loved ones who could not make the journey themselves. Testimonies, photographs, and prayers left by pilgrims over the years fill the adjoining room, a quiet testament to the faith that has drawn people here for more than two centuries.
Because so many pilgrims carried the dirt away with them, the floor of the room began to sink by the 1960s, and flagstone was laid to stabilize it. Since then, el pocito has been replenished with sand from the hills surrounding the chapel.
If you wish to receive a sample of the holy dirt from Santuario de Chimayó, make your request to:
El Santuario de Chimayó
P.O. Box 235, Chimayó NM 87522
You may also make your donation by phone. Contact us at (505) 351-9961.
You don't buy holy dirt; the holy dirt is not for sale. Still, your donation is needed to cover shipping costs. We suggest a contribution of $15.
Suggested way to use the Holy dirt:
Begin by bringing silence to your heart and mind. Try to listen beyond your own worries and concerns. Jesus says, "Do not be afraid." It is only when we set fear aside that we can recognize the Lord and hear his voice.
Humbly acknowledge your weaknesses, mistakes, sins, and illnesses. Tell God that you need him — his wisdom, his strength, his guidance, his forgiveness, his love, and his healing.
Share your wishes with God but also ask him to reveal his plan and will for your life. Pray for the understanding and courage to face whatever he has prepared for you.
Rub the holy dirt over the part of your body in need of healing, invoking the name of Jesus as your Lord and Savior.
Close with this prayer: Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. Amen.