 |
Viva Maria!
The original Figli di Maria S.S. di Monte Carmello
society statue inside Our Lady of Mount Carmel Chapel
|
By Giovanni di Napoli
Saturday, I made my way to Corona, Queens for the 6th Annual Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, an intimate celebration with plenty of delicious food, fun games and live entertainment. Warmly welcomed, I met many good-hearted and friendly people. I especially enjoyed talking to some of the older participants who glowingly recalled the old Feast and expressed their appreciation for its current revival. Considering the great job the organizers have done, this was no surprise. Special thanks are in order to Corona native Al Perna and the Perna Foundation for Kids for their hard work and dedication in bringing back the Feast and keeping our time-honored traditions alive.
 |
After Mass, the procession began with much fanfare
|
 |
Making our way from the chapel
|
 |
Accompanying Father William Hoppe, young ladies carry flowers in honor of the Blessed Mother
|
 |
A labor of love and devotion
|
 |
Prayers and blessings are offered along the procession route
|
 |
Another look at the procession as it makes its way down 111th Street
|
 |
Organizers and volunteers pose for a photo outside William F. Moore Park
|
 |
A makeshift shrine was erected for veneration
|
 |
What kind of Feast would it be without food? There was plenty of delicious Southern Italian street fare on hand, including my favorite: sausage and peppers
|
 |
Live music kept the party rolling
|
 |
Our Lady of Mount Carmel Chapel (103-56 52nd Ave.)
|
 |
A look inside the chapel
Photos by New York Scugnizzo |
