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Evviva Maria!
Photos by New York Scugnizzo
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By Giovanni di Napoli
The sons and daughters of Fontanarosa gathered at the Shrine Church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Williamsburg, Brooklyn Sunday to celebrate their patronal Feast of Maria SS. della Misericordia, or Our Lady of Mercy. Mass was celebrated in English and Italian with Msgr. Joseph Calise, who spoke at length about Pope Francis' Extraordinary Jubilee Year of Mercy and the importance of forgiveness.
After Mass, Our Lady was brought out to the expectant crowd with much fanfare. The statue was placed on a float and accompanied by a group of adorable children dressed as angels and Papal guards. Blessed with terrific weather, the procession sauntered through the neighborhood, stopping on occasion so parishioners could offer donations.
The festivities continued back in the church gymnasium, where we were treated to a magnificent luncheon with all our favorite southern Italian delicacies, including trippa alla napoletana and involtini di melanzane. In addition to the delicious food, partygoers enjoyed plenty of music, dancing and good company. The evening ended with a raffle drawing full of wonderful prizes.
I want to thank President Joe DiTalia and all the members of the Società di Maria SS. della Misericordia for their hard work and dedication to our community. Special thanks to Buffy Cipriano and her beautiful family for their warmth and hospitality. As always, they went above and beyond to make me feel welcome, and to my great surprise (and pleasure) they made me an honorary member of the society. I look forward to celebrating with them again next year. Evviva Maria!
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| The color guard were all smiles |
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| During Mass, devotees present the crowns for the coronation |
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| Msgr. Joseph Calise crowns the Madonna and Child with the triple diadem |
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| After Mass, young men carry the statue to the float |
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| Devotees pin donations on to the ribbons |
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| At the head of the procession, young ladies carry the society banner |
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| Members rally around the standard |
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| President Joe DiTalia with members of the Board of Directors |
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| The procession makes its way through the neighborhood |
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| (Above & below) Young ladies collect donations & hand out prayer cards |
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| Anthony's Italian American Marching Band |
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| The procession returns to Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church |
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| As always, the organizers did a fantastic job |
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| The Papal Guard stood watch as the Blessed Mother was returned to the church |
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| (Above & below) Revelers danced the tarantella |
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| Guests enjoyed a sumptuous repast |
