 |
Evviva San Martino!
Photos by New York Scugnizzo
|
Friday after work, a few of us met at Most Precious Blood Church in Manhattan’s Little Italy to celebrate the Feast of San Martino di Tours (Nov. 11th), patron saint of the poor, vintners, tailors and soldiers. The unseasonably mild weather, known as l’estate di San Martino, or Saint Martin’s Summer, was short lived as temperatures unexpectedly dropped as the sun went down.
Warming up inside, we lit some candles and prayed for our ancestors, loved ones and other petitions. I made my usual rounds to the church's various shrines to the saints and said my intercessory prayers to San Rocco, San Gennaro, San Michele Arcangelo, et al.
Luckily, back in 2015 the Church commissioned the construction of a magnificent Neapolitan presepe (aptly named the Nativity of Mercy) in anticipation of the Holy Doors and the Extraordinary Jubilee Year of Mercy. Inspired by Caravaggio’s masterpiece, The Seven Acts of Mercy (circa 1607), San Martino features prominently among the many beautiful figures.
Handcrafted by the renowned La Scarabottola workshop in Naples, the great saint is shown sharing his crimson mantle with a naked beggar. According to tradition, San Martino cut his cloak in two to save the beggar from freezing to death. Later that night, he dreamt of Jesus wearing the severed garment and when he awoke the next morning the cloak was fully restored.
After church we made our way to Ribalta for our celebratory dinner. Located at 48 E 12th Street, the eatery is easily one of New York City’s best Neapolitan pizzeria restaurants. And thanks to its friendly service and accommodating atmosphere, Ribalta is fast becoming one of our favorite meeting places for our more casual get-togethers.
 |
| Michael and Rosanna show their Due Sicilie pride |
Coincidently, it was also the anniversary of the execution of the great counter-revolutionary hero Michele Pezza, better known as Fra Diavolo (Nov. 11th, 1806). Naturally, we raised our glasses and paid homage to his memory, recalling his many exploits and acts of daring.
After a few drinks, it was only a matter of time before someone broke out the Bourbon flag. A hotbed of neo-Bourbonism, a few shouts of “Viva o’ Rre!” rang from across the restaurant when some other night owls spotted us taking pictures.
Many thanks to my confratelli and consorelle for another very enjoyable evening, it is always an honor and a privilege to celebrate our faith and culture together. Forza e onore!
 |
| Gnocchi alla Sorrentina |
 |
| Pastiera Napoletana |
