A Look at the 2015 Festa della Madonna del Sacro Monte at Holy Face Monastery, Clifton, New Jersey

Evviva Maria!

Photos courtesy of Anthony Scillia

Thank you Tony for sharing with us your wonderful pictures of the Feast of the Madonna del Sacro Monte (May 30th) at Holy Face Monastery in Clifton, New Jersey. Sadly I was unable to attend the celebration this year, but I heard so many good things. 

Mass was celebrated in English and Italian with Msgr. Joseph Ambrosio, Pastor of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Newark, New Jersey. Following the service, Monsignor and devotees processed along the monastery's beautiful wooded paths to the recently restored outdoor chapel dedicated to the Blessed Mother. 

After the Benediction, partygoers adjourned to the picnic grounds for lunch (catered by The Brownstone) and some outstanding live music from the Bloomfield Mandolin Orchestra and singing sensation Marcantonio Pezzano. Festivities also included games and dancing. 

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Our friend Anthony Scillia served as crucifer for the procession

Ladies carried cinte (candle houses) and flowers

Msgr. Joseph F. Ambrosio presides over the procession

The Tony Neglia Band kept the festivities rolling

After the procession, the Blessed Mother is placed in front of the
newly restored outdoor chapel for veneration

Earlier in the week, volunteers restored the outdoor sanctuary of the
Madonna del Sacro Monte back to its original glory

Before and after