June 4, 2013

A Look at the 2013 Festa della Madonna del Sacro Monte at Holy Face Monastery, Clifton, New Jersey

Viva Maria!
A close-up of the recently restored one hundred-year-old statue of the Madonna del Sacro Monte. We owe a debt of gratitude to Patrick O'Boyle and Monsignor Joseph Ambrosio for the recovery and restoration of this historic relic 
After Mass the procession circled the church grounds three times  
Ladies carried flowers and votive candles
Another look at the procession with a wonderful view of the New York City skyline in the background 
Afterward, families and friends enjoyed a delightful picnic 
Donations are pinned to the statue 
Marcantonio Pezzano joined the Tony Neglia Band for a few tunes
Revelers trip the light fantastic
Statues of Padre Pio and San Vito line the path to the outdoor chapels 
Outdoor chapel with mosaic of the Madonna del Sacro Monte 
Outdoor chapel dedicated to Our Lady of the Sacred Heart
The monastery also has an incredible collection of statuary, including San Liberato Martire (above) and Madonna and Child from Fraine, Abruzzo (below)
Photos by New York Scugnizzo