In the years leading up to the anniversary, the parish had petitioned the Vatican for a rare and profound honor: the Canonical Coronation of Hammonton’s miraculous statue of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. A bold and faithful request — and Rome answered. Earlier this month, the Holy See granted the decree, authorizing the placement of a jeweled crown upon the head of the Christ Child held in Our Lady's arms.
The Mass was concelebrated by Father David Rivera, pastor of Saint Mary of Mount Carmel Parish, and Bishop Joseph Andrew Williams of the Diocese of Camden. Many in the congregation wept — not with sorrow, but with the kind of joy only tradition, grace, and the filial devotion to the Blessed Mother can stir.
Outside the church, the streets of Hammonton were transformed into a festive, fragrant carnival. Thousands gathered for the procession of saints, entertainment (rides, games, music, and more), and an abundance of Southern Italian and local fare — including the famous red roast beef sandwiches, made from thinly sliced crimson round roast, and blueberry cannolis bursting with local fruit.
For one golden day, the Old World and the New knelt together at the feet of Our Lady. Evviva Maria!
