Feast of the Madonna Della Fontana

Madonna della Fontana, ora pro nobis

May 21st is the Feast of the Madonna della Fontana (Our Lady of the Fountain), patroness of Spilinga, a small town in the Vibo Valentia Province of Calabria. In celebration, I’m posting a prayer to Our Lady of the Fountain in Italian. The photo was taken at the outdoor chapel next to Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church in Newark, New Jersey during the 2016 Feast of the Madonna della Fontana and St. Michael the Archangel. Evviva Madonna della Fontana!

Preghiera a Maria SS. Della Fontana

O Vergine Maria, tesoriera di grazie, Voi che state rinchiusa in umile grotta, da cui concedete ai fedeli che vi invocano con fede e devozione moltissime grazie fate che noi non perdiamo mai la fede che ci fa sperare le più elette benedizioni dal Cielo e ci conforta in questa valle di lacrime. Proteggeteci o Madre, affinché la mano del Pargoletto Gesù che Voi stringete fra le Vostre braccia si tenda verso di noi Vostri devoti per difenderci da tutti i pericoli della vita presente e così possiamo un giorno, sorretti dal Vostro potente patrocinio, cantare le Vostre glorie nel Regno dell'Amore. Così sia.

Feast of San Costantino il Grande

The Arch of Constantine in Rome. Situated between the Palatine Hill and the Colosseum, the triumphal arch was dedicated in 315 to commemorate the Emperor's victory over Maxentius at the Battle of the Milivian Bridge

In the Eastern Churches, both Catholic and Orthodox, May 21 is the Feast of St. Constantine the Great, Equal to the Apostles and Emperor. Once widely venerated across Southern Italy, the Emperor's cult has sadly diminished and become more localized. Patron saint of converts, he is also the patron of San Costantino Albanese in Provincia di Potenza in Basilicata and Capri Leone in Provincia di Messina in Sicily.

According to tradition, the night before his great victory over the usurper Maxentius at the Battle of the Milivian Bridge on October 12, 312 AD, Constantine dreamt of the Chi and the Rho (XP), the first two letters of Christ’s name in Greek, and heard a voice proclaim In Hoc Signo Vinces, which means “By this sign you will conquer.”

That morning the Emperor had a vision of the cross emanating from the light of the rising sun and commanded his men to paint the Chi and the Rho on their shields and his golden standard (labarum). As proclaimed in his dream, adopting the insignia of Christ he routed his enemy on the field of battle.

Soon after his great victory, the Emperor legalized Christianity with his famous Edict of Milan, thus ending 300 years of Christian persecution by the Romans. A great benefactor of the Faith, he granted privileges, built churches and convened the First Council of Nicaea. In 324 AD Constantine moved the Empire's capital from Rome to Byzantium, which was rechristened Constantinople. He was baptized on his deathbed in 337 AD.

In celebration, I’m posting the prayer to St. Constantine. The accompanying photo of the Arch of Constantine was taken during my 2007 pilgrimage to Rome. San Costantino il Grande, ora pro nobis.

Prayer to St. Constantine

O God, You who work in mysterious ways, we thank you for St. Constantine and the important role he played in the flourishing of the early Church. The proverb holds that You O Lord direct the heart of a good king and guide all his ways. Truly it was you, working through Constantine, that freed your Church from the unjust oppression it had lived under for centuries. May you direct the heart of world leaders still today, so that your Church may be free and kept safe from all harm. We ask this through Christ, our Lord. Amen.

Il Maggio di San Giuliano: The Marriage of Trees and the Feast of Saint Giuliano the Martyr

San Giuliano di Sora, Martire
Saint Paul's Church, Philadelphia
Photo courtesy of Anthony Scillia

Remote Accettura lies in the rugged Southern Italian hinterland of Matera, a province in the region of Basilicata, also called Lucania. The small hilltop town boasts one of the oldest festivals in Italy, il Maggio di Accettura.

Some say the Maggio, or May Festival, predates the classical era. Others, because of its similarities with the Germanic Maypole, claim the Lombards introduced it. Whatever its origins, the pre-Christian fertility rite has been repurposed for the Christian observance. In a medley of traditions, "The Marriage of Trees," as the ancient ritual is known, is now happily associated with Accettura's patron saint, San Giuliano di Sora and the celebration of Pentecost.

Beginning on Ascension Day (Holy Thursday), a group of woodsmen search for and cut down the tallest and straightest tree they can find from nearby Montepiano. Called the "Maggio," the hewed tree is carried back to town on a train of oxen. On Pentecost Sunday, another group of men cut down a smaller tree from nearby Gallipoli Cognato, the forest on the opposite side of Accettura. This tree, called the "Cima," is carried back on the shoulders of the townsmen. Continue reading

Novena to Santa Giovanna d’Arco

St. Jeanne d'Arc, ora pro nobis

Pray novena for nine consecutive days, May 21st — 29th (Feast on May 30th)

Eternal Father, Thou gave us Saint Joan of Arc through Thine infinite love and mercy for us. We humbly ask Thee to send down Thine Holy Spirit upon us, as the intermediary by which the Word goes forth from Thy lips and reaches the ears of the faithful. Allow me to be a witness to Thy Son Jesus Christ just as Saint Joan of Arc was. O Lord Jesus, grant me the courage to do Thy will, that I may be in one accord with Our Father in Heaven. I thank Thee for the gift of Thy love, which I hope to one day fully understand.

Pray 19 times the Our Father, followed by “Saint Joan of Arc, by thy powerful intercession, hear and answer me.”

Saint Joan of Arc, patron of France, my patron saint, I ask thee now to fight this battle with me by prayer, just as thou led thy troops to victory in battle. Thou, who were filled with the Holy Spirit and chosen by God, help me this day with the favor I ask thee [intentions]. Grant me by thy divine and powerful intercession the courage and strength I need to endure this constant fight. O Saint Joan of Arc, help me to be victorious in the tasks God presents to me. I thank thee and ask thee for thy continuing protection of God’s people.

O sweet Saint Joan of Arc, plead for me before the throne of God Almighty that I may be deemed worthy to be granted the request I have asked. Help me Saint Joan, to be more like thee in the attempt to love Our Lord with my whole heart, soul and mind. Through thy guidance and prayer, help me to be a truly devout and loving Catholic, that I may both know and see the will of God. Help me now in my time of need Saint Joan. I ask that thou may always be near me guiding me closer each day to Jesus Christ, Our Lord. I give thee thanks for having heard my prayer. Amen.

 

Glorious Saint Joan of Arc, filled with compassion, for those who invoke thee, filled with love, for those who suffer, heavily laden with the weight of my troubles, I kneel at thy feet and humbly beg thee, to take my present need, under thy special protection. [Intentions] Grant to recommend it, to the Blessed Virgin Mary, and lay it before the throne of Jesus. Cease not to intercede for me, until my request is granted. Above all, obtain for me, the grace to one day, meet God face to face, and with thee and Mary, and all the angels and saints, praise Him through all eternity. O most powerful Saint Joan of Arc, do not let me lose my soul, but obtain for me the grace of winning my way to Heaven, forever and ever. Amen.

Our Father… Hail Mary… Glory Be…

* The accompanying photo was taken at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church in Newark, New Jersey.

Feast of the Madonna Avvocata

Madonna Avvocata, ora pro nobis

The Monday following Pentecost is the Feast of the Madonna Avvocata (Our Lady of the Advocate), one of the so-called "Seven Sisters of Campania,” an appellation given to the region's major Marian devotions under different titles. According to tradition, in 1485 a shepherd named Gabriele Cinnamo was drawn to a cave on top of Mount Falerzio in the Capo d’Orso area of Maiori on the Amalfi Coast. An apparition of the Blessed Mother appeared to Gabriele and instructed him to build a shrine at the location. Gabriele abandoned his life as a shepherd and devoted himself to Our Lady and her request. Over the centuries his modest chapel grew into the magnificent Santuario di Maria Santissima Avvocata, which has become a popular destination for pilgrims and the source of many miracles. In celebration I’m posting a Hail Holy Queen. Evviva Madonna Avvocata!

Hail Holy Queen 

Hail, holy Queen, Mother of mercy: Hail, our life, our sweetness and our hope. To you do we cry, poor banished children of Eve. To you do we send up our sighs, mourning and weeping in this veil of tears. Turn then, most gracious advocate, your eyes of mercy toward us; and after this our exile show unto us the blessed fruit of your womb, Jesus. O clement, O loving, o sweet Virgin Mary.

Feast of San Bernardino da Siena

San Bernardino da Siena, ora pro nobis

May 20th is the feast of St. Bernardine of Siena, Priest, Missionary preacher in Italy, Vicar General of the Observant Friars of Tuscany and Umbria, reformer of the Franciscan Order, and promoter of the devotion to the Holy Name of Jesus. Patron saint of advertisers; public relations; Bernalda, Matera; Vinchiaturo, Campobasso; and co-patron of L’Aquila, Abruzzo; he is also invoked against compulsive gambling, dysentery, and respiratory problems.

Through his preaching and the use of his IHS trigram, representing the first three letters of Our Lord’s name, San Bernardino made popular the devotion to the Holy Name of Jesus. According to some, the abbreviation also stands for Iesus hominum salvator, which is Latin for “Jesus the Savior of Men.”

Retiring from his position due to illness, San Bernardino wished to evangelize in the Kingdom of Naples. The itinerant preacher died in L’Aquila, Abruzzo, on May 20, 1444, at the age of 64. After his death, his body was exposed for veneration and it miraculously excreted a prodigious amount of blood, which caused the factious inhabitants to cease fighting amongst themselves. The Aquilani refused to allow his body to be taken to his native Tuscany and a great many miracles have been attributed to the Saint.

In celebration, we’re posting the Prayer of St. Bernardine of Siena. The accompanying photo, courtesy of Fr. Eugene Carrella, was taken at the Church of the Assumption in New Brighton, Staten Island. Evviva San Bernardino da Siena!

Prayer of St. Bernardine of Siena

Jesus, Name full of glory, grace, love and strength! You are the refuge of those who repent, our banner of warfare in this life, the medicine of souls, the comfort of those who mourn, the delight of those who believe, the light of those who preach the true faith, the wages of those who toil, the healing of the sick.

To You our devotion aspires; by You our prayers are received; we delight in contemplating You. O Name of Jesus, You are the glory of all the saints for eternity. Amen.

Photo of the Week: Il Campanile del Duomo di Ravello

13th-century bell tower, Duomo di Ravello
Photo by New York Scugnizzo

Feast of Pentecost

On the seventh Sunday after Easter, we celebrate the Feast of Pentecost and the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles and their followers. In celebration, we’re posting the hymn Come Holy Spirit, Creator Blest (Veni, Creator Spiritus). A plenary indulgence is granted if it is recited on the feast of Pentecost. The accompanying photo of the Flames of Pentecost was taken at Most Holy Redeemer Church (173 E. 3rd St.) in New York City's East Village.

Come, Holy Spirit, Creator blest,
and in our souls take up Thy rest;
come with Thy grace and heavenly aid
to fill the hearts which Thou hast made.
O comforter, to Thee we cry,
O heavenly gift of God Most High,
O fount of life and fire of love,
and sweet anointing from above.
Thou in Thy sevenfold gifts are known;
Thou, finger of God's hand we own;
Thou, promise of the Father, Thou
Who dost the tongue with power imbue.
Kindle our sense from above,
and make our hearts o'erflow with love;
with patience firm and virtue high
the weakness of our flesh supply.
Far from us drive the foe we dread,
and grant us Thy peace instead;
so shall we not, with Thee for guide,
turn from the path of life aside.
Oh, may Thy grace on us bestow
the Father and the Son to know;
and Thee, through endless times confessed,
of both the eternal Spirit blest.
Now to the Father and the Son,
Who rose from death, be glory given,
with Thou, O Holy Comforter,
henceforth by all in earth and heaven.
Amen.

Veni, Creator Spiritus,
mentes tuorum visita,
imple superna gratia
quae tu creasti pectora.
Qui diceris Paraclitus,
altissimi donum Dei,
fons vivus, ignis, caritas,
et spiritalis unctio.
Tu, septiformis munere,
digitus paternae dexterae,
Tu rite promissum Patris,
sermone ditans guttura.
Accende lumen sensibus:
infunde amorem cordibus:
infirma nostri corporis
virtute firmans perpeti.
Hostem repellas longius,
pacemque dones protinus:
ductore sic te praevio
vitemus omne noxium.
Per te sciamus da Patrem,
noscamus atque Filium;
Teque utriusque Spiritum
credamus omni tempore.
Deo Patri sit gloria,
et Filio, qui a mortuis
surrexit, ac Paraclito,
in saeculorum saecula.
Amen.

New Music — Cimarosa and Palomba: Le Astuzie Femminili

New music that may be of interest to our readers.

• Cimarosa & Palomba: Le Astuzie Femminili performed by Cavaluzzi, Bellocci, Loi, Buzza, Licari, Schisano and Theresia Orchestra

Label: CPO Records
Release Date: April 19, 2024
Audio CD: $36.99
Number of Discs: 2

Available at Amazon.com

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Suppression of the Holy Mass in the Ancient Roman Rite in the Basilica of San Paolo Maggiore/Sanctuary of San Gaetano by Decree of Archbishop Mimmo Battaglia

Without any motivation and after 10 years at the church, the Archbishop of Naples, Mimmo Battaglia, issued a decree suppressing the weekly Sunday Mass in the ancient Roman Rite at the Basilica of San Paolo Maggiore/Sanctuary of San Gaetano.

Having recently endured the suppression of the traditional Liturgy at multiple locations here in New York City, we understand the pain and sorrow our brethren in Naples are currently experiencing. May Our Lady of Victories, San Gaetano, Sant’Andrea Avellino, and all the Theatine Saints protect and watch over you.

Prayers for the clergy, Fondazione Il Giglio, Una Voce Napoli, and their Coetus fidelium would be much appreciated.

For more information visit www.messatridentinanapoli.com.

Brief Excerpts — Mirari Vos: On Liberalism and Religious Indifferentism by Pope Gregory XVI (1832)

Portrait of Pope Gregory XVI
by Hippolyte Paul Delaroche

We have learned that certain teachings are being spread among the common people in writings which attack the trust and submission due to princes; the torches of treason are being lit everywhere. Care must be taken lest the people, being deceived, are led away from the straight path. May all recall, according to the admonition of the apostle that “there is no authority except from God; what authority there is has been appointed by God. Therefore he who resists authority resists the ordinances of God; and those who resist bring on themselves condemnation.” Therefore both divine and human laws cry out against those who strive by treason and sedition to drive the people from confidence in their princes and force them from their government.

And it is for this reason that the early Christians, lest they should be stained by such great infamy deserved well of the emperors and of the safety of the state even while persecution raged. This they proved splendidly by their fidelity in performing perfectly and promptly whatever they were commanded which was not opposed to their religion, and even more by their constancy and the shedding of their blood in battle. “Christian soldiers,” says St. Augustine, “served an infidel emperor. When the issue of Christ was raised, they acknowledged no one but the One who is in heaven. They distinguished the eternal Lord from the temporal lord, but were also subject to the temporal lord for the sake of the eternal Lord.” St. Mauritius, the unconquered martyr and leader of the Theban legion had this in mind when, as St. Eucharius reports, he answered the emperor in these words: “We are your soldiers, Emperor, but also servants of God, and this we confess freely…and now this final necessity of life has not driven us into rebellion: I see, we are armed and we do not resist, because we wish rather to die than to be killed.” Indeed the faith of the early Christians shines more brightly, if with Tertullian we consider that since the Christians were not lacking in numbers and in troops, they could have acted as foreign enemies. “We are but of yesterday,” he says, “yet we have filled all your cities, islands, fortresses, municipalities, assembly places, the camps themselves, the tribes, the divisions, the palace, the senate, the forum….For what war should we not have been fit and ready even if unequal in forces — we who are so glad to be cut to pieces — were it not, of course, that in our doctrine we would have been permitted more to be killed rather than to kill?… If so great a multitude of people should have deserted to some remote spot on earth, it would surely have covered your domination with shame because of the loss of so many citizens, and it would even have punished you by this very desertion. Without a doubt you would have been terrified at your solitude… You would have sought whom you might rule; more enemies than citizens would have remained for you. Now however you have fewer enemies because of the multitude of Christians.”

These beautiful examples of the unchanging subjection to the princes necessarily proceeded from the most holy precepts of the Christian religion. They condemn the detestable insolence and improbity of those who, consumed with the unbridled lust for freedom, are entirely devoted to impairing and destroying all rights of dominion while bringing servitude to the people under the slogan of liberty. Here surely belong the infamous and wild plans of the Waldensians, the Beghards, the Wycliffites, and other such sons of Belial, who were the sores and disgrace of the human race; they often received a richly deserved anathema from the Holy See. For no other reason do experienced deceivers devote their efforts, except so that they, along with Luther, might joyfully deem themselves “free of all.” To attain this end more easily and quickly, they undertake with audacity any infamous plan whatever.

Read the entire encyclical at papalencyclicals.net

Per il Popolo e Per il Cielo

A 10 anni dalla beatificazione di Maria Cristina: la regina santa di San Leucio

New Book — The Art of Immigration: Italian Art in an American Church (Most Precious Blood Church in New York’s Little Italy)

New title that may be of interest to our readers. Available at Amazon.com

• The Art of Immigration: Italian Art in an American Church (Most Precious Blood Church in New York’s Little Italy) by Mary Elizabeth Brown and Janice Carapellucci

Publisher: Mary Brown

Publication Date: April 13, 2024

Paperback: $27.40

Language: English

Pages: 210

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Feast of Santa Restituta

Santa Restituta, ora pro nobis

May 17th is the Feast of Santa Restituta, Virgin, Martyr, and patroness of Lacco Ameno in northwestern Ischia. According to tradition, in 284 AD, during the reign of Emperor Diocletian, Santa Restituta was tortured and sentenced to death for her faith and piety. Brought out to sea, she was placed in a small boat, lashed to a pyre and set aflame. However, a strong wind blew the burning pitch onto her executioners' ship, consuming their vessel in flames instead. She died from her wounds while adrift. 

[An alternate version of her martyrdom states that she was cast overboard with a millstone tied around her neck. Miraculously recovered, the stone is said to be embedded into the wall of the Chiesa di Santa Restituta in Lacco Ameno.]

An angel safely guided the raft from the coast of Abitina (near Carthage) across the Mediterranean Sea to the shores of San Montano just outside Lacco Ameno. Her incorrupt body, resting on a bed of sea daffodils (pancratium maritime), was discovered by a Christian matron named Lucina, who was foretold of the martyr's arrival in a dream. Collecting her remains, the locals buried Santa Restituta at the foot of Monte Vico, where a small sanctuary was dedicated to her. 

In 812 the sanctuary was sacked during a Saracen incursion, but miraculously they were unable to carry off her gilded statue. In a rage an infidel struck the statue with his scimitar, leaving a gash still visible today. It's believed the corsair was paralyzed by the saint for his offense. Deserted by his comrades, the pirate was unable to escape with his spoils. His fate is unknown.

Several years later, her relics were translated to the Basilica in Naples to prevent them from being further desecrated by Muslim slavers. Incorporated into the Gothic Duomo di San Gennaro in the 13th century, the Basilica (now Cappella) di Santa Restituta was the oldest church in Naples. Dating from the 4th century, the Basilica was built on the orders of Emperor Constantine. Popular allegations that the church was erected over a temple to Apollo may be unfounded.(1)

In celebration, I'm posting a prayer to Santa Restituta. The accompanying photo was taken at Sacred Hearts of Jesus & Mary and Saint Stephen's Church in Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn. Evviva Santa Restituta!

Prayer to Santa Restituta

Grant, we beseech Thee, almighty God, that the examples of Santa Restituta may effectually move us to reform our lives; that while we celebrate her festival, we may also imitate her actions. Look upon our weakness, almighty God, and since the burden of our own deeds weighs heavily upon us, may the glorious intercession of Santa Restituta protect us. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Notes: 

(1) Apolline Project Vol. 1: Studies on Vesuvius' North Slope and the Bay of Naples edited by Girolamo F. De Simone and Roger Macfarlane, Università Degli Studî Suor Orsola Benincasa Brigham Young University 2009, p. 250. See Google Books

Feast of San Pasquale Baylon

San Pasquale Baylon, ora pro nobis

May 17th is the Feast of San Pasquale Baylon (St. Paschal Baylon), Mystic and Contemplative. Known as the "Seraph of the Eucharist," San Pasquale is the patron saint of shepherds, cooks and kitchens, as well as the protector of Airola, a commune in the Province of Benevento. In celebration, I’m posting a prayer to St. Paschal. The accompanying photo was taken at the Reale Cappella del Tesoro di San Gennaro inside the Duomo di Napoli. Evviva San Pasquale Baylon!

Prayer to St. Paschal

St. Paschal, you were filled by the Holy Spirit with a wondrous love for the sacred mysteries of Christ’s Body and Blood. Intercede for us now that we may obtain the grace of a profound faith and tender devotion for Jesus in the Most Blessed Sacrament. May we draw from the Eucharist the same spiritual riches you received with great joy, and may our lives reveal the enduring fruit of love, generosity and goodness to the glory of God our Father. St. Paschal Baylon, lover of the Eucharist, pray for us. Amen.

Feast of St. Simon Stock

St. Simon Stock, ora pro nobis

May 16th is the Feast of St. Simon Stock, Mystic and Carmelite friar. An early Prior General of the Carmelite Order, in 1251 Our Lady appeared to him in Cambridge, England and gave him the Carmelite habit, the brown scapular, as a token of her protection and a promise of salvation to those who died wearing it. In celebration, I’m posting a prayer to St. Simon Stock. The accompanying photo is a detail of The Madonna in Glory with Saints and Angels by Onofrio Avellino (1674-1741) taken during my 2010 pilgrimage to the Santuario della Madonna del Carmine in Sorrento, Campania. Evviva St. Simon Stock!

Prayer to St. Simon Stock

O Holy St. Simon, thou were blessed with the apparition of Our Lady and received the Scapular as a special sign of her favor. Following thy example, I pledge to wear the Scapular faithfully and devoutly so that I may always have Our Lady's wonderful protection in life and her special help at the hour of death. Amen.

Novena to the Infant Jesus of Prague for the Nine Days Preceding the 25th of Each Month (16th–24th)

1. Eternal Father, I offer to Your honor and glory, for my eternal salvation and for the salvation of the whole world, the mystery of the birth of our Divine Redeemer. Glory be to the Father, etc.

2. Eternal Father, I offer to Your honor and glory, for my eternal salvation and that of the whole world, the sufferings of the most holy Virgin and St. Joseph on that long and weary journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem. I offer Thee the sorrows of their hearts at not finding a place wherein to shelter themselves when the Saviour of the world was about to be born. Glory be to the Father, etc.

3. Eternal Father, I offer to Your honor and glory, for my eternal salvation and that of the whole world, the sufferings of Jesus in the manger where He was born, the cold He suffered, the swaddling clothes which bound Him, the tears He shed, and His tender infant cries. Glory be to the Father, etc.

4. Eternal Father, I offer to Your honor and glory, for my eternal salvation and that of the whole world, the pain which the Holy Child Jesus felt in His tender body when He submitted to the rite of circumcision. I offer Thee that Precious Blood which then for the first time He shed for the salvation of all mankind. Glory be to the Father, etc.

5. Eternal Father, I offer to Your honor and glory, for my eternal salvation and that of the whole world, the humility, mortification, patience, charity and all the virtues of the Child Jesus; and I thank Thee, and I love Thee, and I bless Thee without end for this ineffable mystery of the Incarnation of the Word of God. Glory be to the Father, etc.

V. The Word was made flesh.
R. And dwelt among us.

Let us Pray

O God, whose only-begotten Son was made manifest to us in the substance of our flesh, grant, we beseech Thee, that through Him, whom we acknowledge to have been outwardly like us, we may deserve to be renewed in our inward selves. Who lives and reigns with Thee forever and ever. Amen.

Source: Devotion to the Infant Jesus of Prague, TAN Books, 1990

I Reggimento Re alla Casina Vanvitelliana

In Bacoli (NA)

Feast of San Liberatore

San Liberatore, ora pro nobis

May 15th is the Feast of San Liberatore, Bishop and Martyr. Widely venerated across Southern Italy, he is the principal patron of Ariano Irpino (AV), Civitacampomarano (CB) and Torrecuso (BN), among others. 

In celebration, I’m posting a prayer to San Liberatore. The accompanying photo was taken at St. Anthony of Padua Church in Belleville, New Jersey. Evviva San Liberatore!

Prayer to San Liberatore

God our Father, enable us who honor the memory of San Liberatore, martyr and protector of Ariano Irpino, to share with him in the joy of eternal life, through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen

New Music — Scarlatti: Prima d’esservi infedele / Cantatas for Solo Voice with Violins

New music that may be of interest to our readers.

• Scarlatti: Prima d’esservi infedele - Cantatas for Solo Voice with Violins performed by Valeria la Grotta and Quartetto Vanvitelli

Label: Arcana Records
Release Date: April 19, 2024
Audio CD: $20.99
Number of Discs: 1

Available at Amazon.com

Read description

Pentecost Sunday at Our Lady of Peace Church in Brooklyn, New York

Pentecost Sunday at St. Michael's Church in Staten Island, New York

John Rao's Latest Lecture is now Available For Free on Soundcloud

The most recent lectures are available for free via Soundcloud.

Feast of the Beato Simeon Maria Cardon

Beato Simeon Maria Cardon, ora pro nobis

May 14th is the Feast of Blessed Simeon Maria Cardon, Cistercian priest and Martyr. Between May 13th and 16th in 1799, Blessed Simeon Maria Cardon and five companions were massacred in the Gothic Abbey of Casamari by a band of French Revolutionary soldiers returning northward after the Napoleonic invasion of the Kingdom of Naples. In search of plunder, the drunken ruffians looted the friary and desecrated the chapel. As the horrified friars desperately attempted to recover the Consecrated Hosts strewn across the sanctuary floor they were murdered in cold blood.

The Blessed Martyrs are Father Simeon Cardon of Cambrai, died on May 14th; Father Domenico Maria Zawrel, killed on May 13th; Brother Maturino Maria Pitri, killed on May 13th; Brother Albertino Maria Maisonade, killed on May 13th; Brother Modesto Maria Burgen, killed on May 13th; and Lay Brother Zosimo Maria Brambat, died from his wounds on May 16th. 

In celebration, we’re posting a prayer to Blessed Simeon Maria Cardon. Evviva Beato Simeon Maria Cardon!

Prayer to Blessed Simeon Maria Cardon

All powerful, ever living God, You gave Blessed Simeon Maria Cardon the courage to witness to the Gospel of Christ, even to the point of giving his life for it. By his prayers help us to endure all suffering for love of You and to seek You with all our hearts, for You alone are the source of life. Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, Your Son, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever.
 

May the Lord bless us, protect us from all evil and bring us to everlasting life. Amen. 

Feast of San Bonosio

San Bonosio Vescovo, ora pro nobis

May 14th is the traditional Feast of San Bonosio, first Bishop of Salerno. After the reform of 1975, it was moved to May 15th, the patronal feast of Salerno's Holy Bishops. In celebration, I’m posting a prayer to St. Bonosius. The accompanying photo, courtesy of Andrew Giordano, was taken at the Basilica Cattedrale SS. Matteo e Gregorio in Salerno. Evviva San Bonosio!

Prayer to St. Bonosius

Grant, we beseech Thee, almighty God, that the examples of St. Bonosius, first Bishop of Salerno, may effectually move us to reform our lives; that while we celebrate his festival, we may also imitate his actions. Through our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

Look upon our Weakness, almighty God, and since the burden of our own deeds weighs heavily upon us, may the glorious intercession of St. Bonosius protect us. Through our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

Briganti la Mostra

In Napoli

I Cannoni di Stabia

In Castellammare di Stabia (NA)

Feast of the Madonna di Fátima

Madonna di Fátima, ora pro nobis

May 13th is the Feast of Madonna di Fátima. The celebration recalls the first of six Marian apparitions that appeared to three shepherd children (Lúcia dos Santos, and Francisco and Jacinta Marto) at Cova da Iria in Fátima, Portugal in 1917. Famously during these visits, Our Lady confided a three-part secret to the seers, which were to be completely revealed by 1960. The first was a terrifying vision of Hell and tormented souls. The second prophesied impending war (WWII), the spread of Communism, and the persecution of the Church. Sadly, in disobedience to the Blessed Mother, the contents of the third part (an apocalyptic vision of the Pope, priests and lay people being killed) was only partially revealed by the Vatican in 2000 and thus not sufficiently heeded. According to Our Lady, these evils can be avoided with the devotion to her Immaculate Heart and the consecration of Russia. We as Catholics must pray the Rosary daily in reparation for sin, as well as for the conversion of poor sinners. 

In celebration, I’m posting the Litany to Our Lady of Fátima. The accompanying photo was taken at the Shrine Church of St. Bernadette in Dyker Heights, Brooklyn. Ave Maria!

Litany to Our Lady of Fátima

Our Lady of Fátima, pray for our dear country.
Our Lady of Fátima, sanctify our clergy.
Our Lady of Fátima, make our Catholics more fervent.
Our Lady of Fátima, guide and inspire those who govern us.
Our Lady of Fátima, cure the sick who confide in thee.
Our Lady of Fátima, console the sorrowful who trust in thee.
Our Lady of Fátima, help those who invoke your aid.
Our Lady of Fátima, deliver us from all dangers.
Our Lady of Fátima, help us to resist temptation.
Our Lady of Fátima, obtain for us all that we lovingly ask of thee.
Our Lady of Fátima, help those who are dear to us.
Our Lady of Fátima, bring back to the right road our erring brothers.
Our Lady of Fátima, give us back our ancient fervor.
Our Lady of Fátima, obtain for us pardon of our manifold sins and offenses.
Our Lady of Fátima, bring all men to the feet of thy Divine Child.
Our Lady of Fátima, obtain peace for the world.

O Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee.
Immaculate Heart of Mary, pray for us now and at the hour of our death. Amen.

Let Us Pray:
O God of infinite goodness and mercy, fill our hearts with a great confidence in Thy dear Mother, whom we invoke under the title of Our Lady of the Rosary of Fátima, and grant us by her powerful intercession all the graces, spiritual and temporal, which we need. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Photo of the Week: Terracotta Red-Figure Amphora, Archaelogical Museum of Paestum

Photo by New York Scugnizzo

Certamen Historicum Francesco II di Borbone

In Napoli

A Poem For Mother's Day

Photo courtesy of The Art Institute of Chicago

In loving memory of my mother I'm posting November 2, a moving poem by the great Neapolitan poet Salvatore Di Giacomo.* The accompanying photo of Charity by Francesco de Mura (1696-1782) was part of a series of Allegories of the Virtues commissioned by Charles Emmanuel III of Savoy. Charity, representing maternal love, is depicted as a nursing mother caring for three children. In the foreground is a pelican feeding her young with her own blood, a symbol of sacrifice.

November 2

When my mother died, I was too stunned
to grieve; at the foot of the bed,
I stared, unseeing, at the drab clad body;
blinding, blunting all living memories.

No, I did not cry, no wail, not a tear,
I imagined her asleep, a halo
of a mother about that worn grey face;
waiting for me to come home, she dozed.

A year now that she is deep in her grave,
in my dreams she appears, her love unslaked,
vanishing, she strands me in a desert.

Suddenly my heart overflows, cascades
with tears, laving these dear remembered walls,
I choke up, tears, tears, are drowning my poem. 

2 de Nuvembre

I’ nun saccio pecché, quanno murette
màmmema bella e, comm’ a nu stunato,
sulo, a tenerla mente io rummanette,
appede de lu lietto addenucchiato;

tanno, io nun saccio pecché, nun chiagnette,
guardannola accussì, zitto, ncantato,
comm’ a na vota ch’ essa s’ addurmette,
mentr’ io vicino lle steva assettato…

Mo ca fa n’ anno ca ii’ aggio perduta,
mo, mo ca nzuonno me sta cumparenno,
mo la necessità nn’ aggio sentuta…

E mo mme vene a chiàgnere, e chiagnenno
sceto sti mmura ca ll’ hanno saputa,
nfonno sti ccarte addó stongo screvenno…

(*) Reprinted from The Naples of Salvatore Di Giacomo: Poems and a Play, translated by Frank J. Palescandolo, Forum Italicum, Inc., 2000, page 65

Feast of San Liberato Martire

San Liberato, ora pro nobis

The second Sunday in May is the Feast of San Liberato, Doctor and Martyr. He is the patron Saint of Calvisi, a small village in Gioia Sannitica, a commune in the Province of Caserta. 

According to tradition, San Liberato was a fifth century doctor in Carthage. During the cruel reign of the tyrant Huneric, son of Genseric and King of the Arian Vandals, he was arrested with his wife and children, and martyred for their faith. San Liberato is also venerated on the second Sunday of October.

In celebration, the occasion I’m posting a prayer to San Liberato. The accompanying photo was taken at Saint Michael’s Church in New Haven, Connecticut. Evviva San Liberato!

Prayer to San Liberato

God our Father, enable us who honor the memory of San Liberato, holy martyr and protector of Calvisi, to share with him in the joy of eternal life, through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen

Feast of San Filippo d’Agira

San Filippo d'Agira, ora pro nobis

May 12th is the feast of San Filippo d’Agira, Priest, Exorcist and “Apostle of the Sicilians.” Widely venerated in Sicily, he is the principal patron of Agira (EN), Piazza Armerina (EN), Aci San Filippo (CT), Calatabiano (CT), Limina (ME), Mongiuffi Melia (ME), Rodi Milici (ME), Santo Stefano Medio (ME), Monforte San Giorgio (ME), San Filippo Del Mela (ME), and Chiaramonte Gulfi (RG). He is also the patron saint of Laurito in Salerno, San Filippo di Pellaro in Reggio Calabria, Favelloni Piemonte in Vibo Valentia, and the United States Army Special Forces. In celebration, I’m posting a prayer to San Filippo d’Agira in Italian. The accompanying photo, courtesy of Anthony Scillia, was taken at St. Rocco’s Church in Newark, New Jersey. Evviva San Filippo d’Agira!

Prayer to San Filippo d’Agira

O S. Filippo d’Agira, gemma dei sacerdoti, tu che fosti decorato da Dio con la gloria dei miracoli, tu salute degli energumeni, molto potente contro i demoni, grande terrore dell’inferno, tu, che discendendo nel sepolcro da te preparato ancor vivente, dicesti: È quivi il mio riposo per tutti i secoli, dal Cielo dove adesso abiti, guardaci benigno, tu ci difendi, ci proteggi da tutti i nostri nemici spirituali e temporali, affinché contro tanti nemici ci sia dato combattere e vincere sempre sino alla morte. Amen.

Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary at the Shrine Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament in Raritan, NJ

The Founding of Constantinople

The Founding of Constantinople by Sir Peter Paul Rubens (1577-1640)

Reprinted from Western Exile @westernexile

We commemorate a day holy in the annals of history indeed. For it was on the 11th May AD 330, the Feast of Saint Mocius, that the Emperor Constantine the Great consecrated the imperial city of Constantinople, Byzantium of old and bastion of Christendom new, as the Second Rome.

Almost six centuries after the banner of the Romans was furled over the Golden Horn, her spirit remains unbroken.