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Evviva Sant'Antonio!
Photos by New York Scugnizzo |
By Giovanni di Napoli
Friday, my friends and I attended the Festa di Sant’Antonio at the beautiful Shrine Church of St. Anthony of Padua in SoHo, New York (154 Sullivan Street, New York, NY 10012). Arriving early, we mingled with parishioners and members of the clergy before heading into the church basement to see the wonderful selection of Italian delicacies and religious articles for sale.
Alas, I could not partake in any food or drink before Communion, but I did get an opportunity to explore and admire the church’s wonderful collection of statuary, particularly an incredible depiction of the Holy Trinity up in the choir balcony.
Sadly, the Procession was cancelled after Mass due to poor weather. The setback, however, did not dampen the spirits of the attendees, who kept the festivities rolling in the church, thanks in part to the terrific selection of music performed by Red Mike’s Festival Band.
I would like to extend my gratitude to Toni and David Rosa for there hard work and dedication. Their devotion to Saint Anthony helped make this celebration another huge success.
Famished, my friends and I took a short stroll to Carmine Street for a delicious celebratory dinner at Numero 28 Pizzeria in the West Village (28 Carmine Street). As always, the Neapolitan style pies, cold beers and warm company were the perfect ending to a fantastic evening.
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| Volunteers serve up some delicious fare |
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| The beautifully decorated altar |
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| Statue of the Holy Trinity in the choir balcony |
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| After Mass devotees pin donations onto Saint Anthony |
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Toni and David Rosa did a wonderful job decorating the statue
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Louise Acampora and the Red Mike Festival Band
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| Celebrants line up to venerate the relic of Saint Anthony |
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| A close up of the statue |
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| A Neapolitan masterpiece at Numero 28 Pizzeria |
