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Viva San Rocco!
Photos by New York Scugnizzo
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By Giovanni di Napoli
Saturday, October 17th, I returned to Astoria, Queens for the highly anticipated Societá Gioventú Quagliettana’s Annual Fiaccolata di San Rocco. I’ve been attending the torchlight procession for several years now and, thanks to the warmth and hospitality (not to mention the strong devotion) of the members, it continues to be one of my all-time favorite celebrations.
Despite the biting cold weather, society members turned out en masse for the procession. Starting from the clubhouse on 28th Avenue—better known as St. Rocco’s Place—we sauntered through the neighborhood to St. Joseph’s Church, where we celebrated Mass in Italian with Father Felix. During the offertory, tenor Pasquale Auriemma performed a stirring rendition of
Panis Angelicun (Angelic Bread), the last two stanzas from the hymn
Sacris Solemniis written by St. Thomas Aquinas. It was one of the finest church performances I’ve heard in some time.
After Mass, we wended our way, singing and praying, back to the clubhouse. Inside, we enjoyed some coffee and refreshments. While we were warming up, I had a great time catching up with everyone.
I want to thank all the members of the society for their hard work and dedication. Special thanks to President Vincenzo Carpinelli, a tireless organizer, who always does a tremendous job. It was an honor and a privilege to be a part of your special day. Evviva San Rocco!
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| The color guard battled through the strong winds |
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| Members take turns carrying San Rocco |
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| The candlelight procession makes its way through the neighborhood |
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| The faithful sing hymns outside St. Joseph's Church |
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| Father Felix blesses and purifies the statue with incense |
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| Departing Saint Joseph's Church |
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| The procession makes its way back to the clubhouse for refreshments |
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| Our friends Maria and Tina |
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| Back at the clubhouse, devotees sing a patronal hymn to San Rocco |
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Our Pal Gerardo sporting the society's new jacket,
which came in handy this cold evening |
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| Glorious San Rocco is returned to his shrine |
