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The Madonna delle Grazie, Patroness of Santa Caterina Villarmosa
Photos by New York Scugnizzo
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Back in July, while covering the closing of St. Joseph's Church and the translation of the San Rocco and San Vincenzo statues, we expressed concern for the church’s other priceless works of art (See "Bittersweet Move"). I'm happy to report that two additional pieces, the statue of the Madonna delle Grazie and icon of the Madonna di Ripalta, have found a new home at Most Precious Blood Church (113 Baxter St.) in Manhattan's Historic Little Italy.
Joining Most Precious Blood’s impressive collection of statuary, the Madonna delle Grazie has been placed in a niche near the Baxter Street entrance. The Madonna di Ripalta icon, I’m told, will be put on display in the church's Our Lady of Lourdes chapel as soon as an appropriate plinth has been acquired.
Needless to say, we are very excited about this and look forward to the resumption of their respective church celebrations. Traditionally the Feast of the Madonna di Ripalta, patroness of Cerignola in Foggia, is held on September 8th; while the Feast of the Madonna delle Grazie, patroness of Santa Caterina Villarmosa in Caltanissetta, is held on August 20th.
Special thanks to Stephen LaRocca, President of the St. Rocco Society of Potenza in New York; Bill Russo, Project Manager at Most Precious Blood Church; and Monsignor Donald Sikano for making this move a reality. Evviva Maria!
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| The Madonna delle Grazie has moved from St. Joseph's Church (left) to Most Precious Blood Church (right) |
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| (Above and below) The Madonna delle Grazie is packed and ready to move |
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| A look at the crowns |
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Icon of the Madonna di Ripalta, patroness of Cerignola, at St. Joseph's Church
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