Il Regno: Viva San Vincenzo!

A Look at the 114th Annual Feast of San Vincenzo Martire di Craco at Most Precious Blood Church in New York City

San Vincenzo Martire on display in his new home

Photos by New York Scugnizzo

By Giovanni di Napoli

Sunday, October 25th, my friends and I made our way to Most Precious Blood Church (113 Baxter St.) in Manhattan’s historic Little Italy, for the 114th Annual Feast of San Vincenzo Martire, patron saint of Craco, Basilicata. A homecoming of sorts, the first recorded celebration of the Feast was held outside Most Precious Blood Church on October 25th, 1901 while it was under construction. Established at St. Joachim’s Church on Roosevelt Street, the celebration eventually relocated to St. Joseph’s Church on Monroe Street. With the unfortunate closing of St. Joe’s in August, San Vincenzo moved again, finding a new home at Most Precious Blood Church.

We were honored to celebrate the first Mass at Most Precious Blood with Rev. Monsignor Nicholas Grieco who, being of Cracotan descent himself, gave an impassioned homily about the life and martyrdom of St. Vincent, St. Maurice and the Theban Legion. Father Grieco ended the ceremony by blessing the statue, prominently displayed in his new encasement on top of the “Guariglia Altar.”

After Mass, members crossed teeming Canal Street to Forlini’s Restaurant (93 Baxter St.) for the annual society luncheon. Guests packed into the old-school Italian eatery for a delicious meal and some lighthearted revelry in a comfortable setting. Taking a breather between courses, we were treated to a couple of short, but fascinating, documentaries about Craco. Naturally, we ended our spirited soirée with some coffee and dessert, including Forlini’s legendary cheesecake and more than a few shots of Salvatore Francavilla’s outstanding homemade limoncello.

I want to thank President Joe Rinaldi, Fred Spero, Stephen La Rocca and all the members of the Craco Society who worked day and night to make this event a huge success. As always, I was overwhelmed with joy by your warmth and generosity. Special thanks to Monsignor Donald Sakano, Bill Russo, John Amerise and the rest of the parish staff for your hard work and endless hospitality. Most Precious Blood Church continues to be a great bastion of southern Italian faith and culture. It truly was an honor and a privilege to be a part of this glorious 114-year tradition. Viva San Vincenzo!