Evviva Santa Marina!
Photos by New York Scugnizzo
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Saturday, July 12th, I made my way to Inwood, Long Island for the 53rd Annual Feast of Santa Marina Vergine, patroness of Filandari, Calabria. It was standing room only at beautiful Our Lady of Good Council Church (68 Wanser Ave.), as devotees came from far and wide to celebrate Mass and march in the Procession.
During his homily, Father Tutone gave an inspiring account of the Saint’s life and commended the Santa Marina Society for their cultural and spiritual devotion. Throughout the ceremony, beautiful choral music reverberated all through the church from the organ balcony.
The service ended with a delightful performance by the children’s choir. Some dressed as Santa Marina, others the orphan “Fortunato” from her hagiography. The little angels sang two beautiful devotional hymns in honor of their beloved patron and were rewarded with resounding applause from the proud audience.
After Mass we gathered outside the church for the procession. The crowd cheered as the Saint made her appearance and rushed to pin their donations onto her ribbons. Following the National Anthem, festivities got rolling as The Our Lady of Good Council Marching Band led the celebrants through the quiet streets of Inwood. Luckily, we were blessed with a beautiful sunny day and a gentle breeze from the nearby bay.
Upon our return to the fairgrounds, we were treated to a deafening fireworks display. The Saint was placed inside an outdoor chapel and family and friends took turns taking pictures with the statue. We enjoyed some refreshments and talked some more before saying our goodbyes.
Even though this was my first time attending the celebration, the Santa Marina Society welcomed me with a warmth that was second to none. Members gladly shared their stories with me and treated me like I was one of their own. I would especially like to thank President Salvatore Cimato, Vice President Marino Curra and Secretary–Treasurer Giovanni Curra for their hard work and dedication. It was a real honor to celebrate with them and I look forward to returning next year.
After Mass devotees pin money onto the statue
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Frankie Tullo (r.) and the Color Guard lead the way |
The Procession leaves Our Lady of Good Council Church |
The Our Lady of Good Council Band |
To carry the Saint is a special honor |
Rosa DeLuca and John Zanni show their support |
There was a tremendous turnout for the celebration |
Baby's first Feast |
Wending our way through Inwood |
This cutie has the best seat in the house |
Another look at the Procession |
President Salvatore Cimato and his lovely family |
Revelers enjoy the festivities |
After a couple of hours, the Procession heads back to the church |
Santa Marina is placed in her outdoor chapel |
After the Procession we enjoyed a flurry of fireworks |