Honoring Our Lady of Sorrows at Saint Athanasius

Viva Maria!

By Giovanni di Napoli

The rain may have prevented us from holding our procession last Saturday, but it most certainly didn't dampen any spirits. After a solemn Mass with Monsignor David Cassato at Saint Athanasius Church (2154 61st Street), celebrants moved across the street into Saint Athanasius School for the celebration.

Reliquary with a fragment

of the original veil of the

Madonna Addolorata

from Mola di Bari

Congregants packed into the auditorium for a wonderful evening of lighthearted merriment. There were plenty of refreshments on hand; plus music and dancing for those of us who needed to work off our dessert. (Regrettably, I was too busy savoring my pastry to find out where they got the delicious sweets.) Awards and accolades were presented to outstanding members of the community and, as always, it was a real treat to see so many beautiful children playing, dancing and having a great time. The participation of our youth is vital for the future of our traditions and societies like this one.

Thankfully, the procession was rescheduled for September eleventh, which in reality is closer to the Madonna Addolorata's actual Feast Day of September 15. Unfortunately for me, I don't think I will be able to attend, but I hope the participants have better luck with the weather this time around and look forward to hearing how successful it was.

My gratitude goes out to Lucrezia Nardulli and the Associazione Culturale Pugliese Figli Maria SS. Addolorata for all their hard work and love that goes into putting on this and other wonderful events. They're doing an excellent job preserving our Southern Italian culture and traditions.

2012 Grand Marshals, Angela and Michael Stephan

Proud parents, Antonella and Domenic enjoy the festivities with their little angel Rosella

Regina of the Association, Chiara Marangelli was all smiles

Reigning Miss Mola USA & Miss Puglia USA Anna Nicole Deliso strikes a pose

Members of the Association present a plaque to the Grand Marshals

Children pose for photos in front of the Madonna

Revelers trip the light fantastic

Kids cut a rug at the party

A close up of Our Lady of Sorrows
Photos by New York Scugnizzo

Also see:

A look at the Fourth Annual Procession of Maria S.S. Addolorata in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn