June 20, 2015

A Look at the 2015 Festa di San Vito Martire in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn

Viva San Vito!
Photos by New York Scugnizzo
Last Sunday (June 14th), my friends and I made our way to the Congrega San Vito di Ciminna clubhouse (7712 18th Ave.) in Bensonhurst, Brooklyn for the Festa di San Vito Martire. Blessed with beautiful weather, the procession wended its way through the neighborhood to Saint Dominic's Church. Before celebrating Mass in Italian with Father Martino, we listened to a short speech by young Maria Gambino about the life and martyrdom of San Vito.
After Mass, the celebration continued back at the clubhouse, where we enjoyed good company and a fantastic Barbecue. The evening concluded with caffè, dessert and an exciting raffle drawing. 
I want to thank President Dom Quartara and all the members of the Congrega San Vito di Ciminna for their warmth and hospitality. As always, we had a terrific time and look forward to celebrating with you again next year. Viva San Vito!
Leaving the clubhouse
The procession makes its way down 18th Avenue 
(Above and below) Getting the youth involved 
Young participants carry the flags 
Our friends Enza and Robert from the St. Francis College Italian American Historical Society show their support 
The Giglio Band
Rosario leads the procession into St. Dominic's Church
Departing St. Dominic's 
Posing for a group picture outside the church
Outside the clubhouse, someone sets off fireworks 
(Above and below) At the end of the evening, the silver halo
and cross are removed for safe keeping