June 6, 2015

A Look at the 2015 Festa di San Calogero in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn

Viva San Calò!
Photos by New York Scugnizzo
Last Sunday (May 31st), my friends and I joined members of the Società San Calogero di Torretta in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn for the 53rd Annual Feast of San Calogero. Starting from the society's clubhouse on 20th Avenue, the procession made its way through the neighborhood to Saint Dominic's Church, where we celebrated Mass in Italian. 

On 18th Avenue, we briefly stopped outside the Sciacca Social Club, Società Figli di Ragusa, Villabate Alba Pasticceria and Caffè Italia to play a few songs. Devotees came out to venerate the saint and offer donations. 

Afterward, we returned to the clubhouse for a terrific block party and barbecue, with all the fixin's. Free from traffic, children played together in the street while the adults mingled and socialized. Though the clouds were threatening, no rain fell until after we were done.

Thank you President Calogero Candela and all the members of the society for your warmth and hospitality. As always, it was an honor and a privilege to celebrate our faith and culture with you. Viva San Calò!
Flag bearers led the way through the neighborhood
The procession saunters down 18th Avenue
Along the way, we stopped by the Sciacca Social Club and Società Figli di Ragusa
Friends and family enjoy the special day
A devotee kisses her prayer card
Teaching the young
The Giglio Band attracted a few young fans
Arriving at St. Dominic's Church
Blessing the statue
Leaving St. Dominic's
After Mass, we returned to the clubhouse to continue the celebration
Grill masters hard at work 
Enjoying a delicious lunch in the clubhouse