New Music — La Ville Joyeuse: The City Of Naples In French Piano Music

New music that may be of interest to our readers.

• La Ville Joyeuse: The City Of Naples In French Piano Music performed by Daniele Adornetto

Label: Da Vinci Classics
Release Date: July 10, 2020
Audio CD: $NA
Number of Discs: 1

Available at Amazon.com

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Meridiunalata XX: 'Ncuorp’’o Caudo D’’A Notte' di Cav. Charles Sant'Elia | 'Inside The Warmth of the Night' by Cav. Charles Sant'Elia

Reprinted from Cav. Charles Sant'Elia's Meridiunalata / Southernade, an evocative bilingual (Neapolitan / English) collection of poetry written between 1989 and 2010. *

Ncuorp’’o Caudo D’’A Notte

Ncuorp’’o caudo d’’a notte
Se ne traseva ‘o friddo
‘E sta luna nova.
Niente s’è smuóppeto.
‘O graro de l’autare
Nce aspettava,
Nu puojo sulagno
Mmiez’’e parole
Ca sagliéveno a cefrone
Addò ghiéveno jéveno.
Ammarrávemo ‘e feneste
Int’’o sbacante,
Ogne lagnanza d’ammore
Scordata e passata
Se steva zitta.
Era ‘o tiempo d’’e canzone nove,
‘O dimane c’’a’ fine
Era venuta mbracci’a nuje.

Inside The Warmth of the Night

Inside the warmth of the night
The cold of this new moon
Was entering.
Nothing moved.
The step of the altar
Was awaiting us,
A solitary ledge
Between the words
That were rising up like chevrons
Wherever they went.
We shuttered the windows
In the void,
Every complaint of love
Forgotten and passed
It was quiet.
It was the time of new songs,
The tomorrow that in the end
Had come into our arms.

* Self-published in 2010, Meridiunalata/Southernade is a treasury of poems gleaned from Cav. Sant'Elia's previous collections (Nchiuso dint''o presente, 'A cuntrora, and 'O pino e l'éllera), which were circulated among friends in New York City and Naples. Special thanks to Cav. Sant'Elia for allowing us to reprint his poetry and translations.

Feast of Santi Martiri Nazario and Celso

Santi Nazario e Celso, orate pro nobis

July 28th is the Feast of the Martyrs San Nazario and San Celso (Nazarius and Celsus), patron saints of Trivento (CB) in Molise and Frignano (CE) in Campania.

According to tradition, San Nazario was born in Rome to a well-to-do family; his father was a pagan (or Jewish) legionnaire and his mother was none other than St. Perpetua. Baptized by the future Pope St. Linus, he was a devout disciple of St. Peter.

Determined to spread the faith and save souls, San Nazario left the Eternal City and visited northern Italy and Gaul. Along his travels, young Celso was entrusted to Nazario and faithfully served as his assistant during his evangelizing mission.

Repeatedly running afoul with the pagan authorities, the companions were subjected to several tortures. Most famously, the two were to be drowned and cast overboard along the Ligurian coast. Instead of sinking, they miraculously stood up and walked on water. Suddenly a great storm whipped-up and the sailors begged Nazario and Celso to save them. Showing mercy to the would-be executioners, they safely sailed back to Genoa and continued their missionary work.

Nazario and Celso eventually went to their reward in Heaven during the reign of Emperor Nero. Around the year 56 they were beheaded for preaching in Milan. Centuries later, their uncorrupted bodies, including a vial of San Nazario’s blood, were discovered in a garden by St. Ambrose. Interred in the Basilica Apostolorum (eventually renamed San Nazaro in Brolo), St. Ambrose would later send relics of the saints to St. Paulinus in Nola, who greatly revered them.

In celebration, I’m posting a prayer to San Nazario and San Celso in Italian. The accompanying photo of St. Nazarius was taken at Saint Lucy’s Church in Newark, New Jersey. Evviva Santi Nazario e Celso!

Preghiera

A Santi Nazario e Celso

Gloriosissimi Martiri ed Apostoli di Gesù. Santi Nazario e Celso, che con animo invitto e singolare carità ci avete illuminato a conoscere il vero Dio e ci avete ammaestrato nella fede e nella religione di N. S. Gesù Cristo, fonte di vera civiltà e salvezza, venite in nostro aiuto e degnatevi di intercedere per noi. Ottenete ai pusillanimi vigoria di cristiana virtù e vivezza di fede, ai peccatori una vera contrizione delle loro colpe, ai giusti la finale perseveranza. Ascoltate le preghiere di chi ricorre al vostro valevole patrocinio e siate voi gli Angeli tutelari delle nostre famiglie. Deh fate, o invitti Martiri del Signore, che non venga meno nei nostri cuori la fede e l'amore a Gesù Cristo; che fermi ci manteniamo nel divino servizio e possiamo un giorno essere coronati con Voi nel S. Paradiso. Così sia.

Celebrating the Eighth Sunday After Pentecost and the Feast of St. Anne

Sant'Anna, ora pro nobis

Remember, Saint Anne, never was it said that anyone who sought your assistance was left unaided. For you are indeed a most merciful mother, who tends to all our needs. Since you are the mother of the Queen of Heaven and our Savior’s grandmother, I implore you to obtain from Jesus, through your Immaculate Daughter, the favors I stand in need of. Amen.  ~ Memorare to St. Anne

Sunday morning members of the Fratelli della Santa Fede (Brothers of the Holy Faith) gathered at the Shrine Church of the Holy Innocents (128 West 37th St.) in Manhattan for both the 9:00 am Tridentine Low Mass and the 10:30 am Tridentine High Mass for the Eighth Sunday After Pentecost and the Feast of St. Anne. Our Pastor Fr. James Miara was the Celebrant at both.

Following imposed social distancing guidelines, we were able to get our regular seats on St. Joseph's side of the altar (i.e. the right side) for the early Mass, but as more people arrived for the second one we moved up to the balcony to make room for the elderly, handicapped, and families with children. To be clear (since someone inquired), whenever we attend multiple Masses in a day we never receive Communion twice. Personally, I prefer to receive during the Low Mass because I don't want to wait, the lines are shorter and, you never know, I may not make it to the second Mass.

Speaking of Communion, during the Low Mass we had the great joy of witnessing a young girl make her First Holy Communion. Seven or eight years-old, holding a lit candle and dressed in white with a veil, she kneeled at the altar rail and received on the tongue. Congratulations to her and her family, we wish and pray you continue to grow in the grace of God.

After the High Mass the congregation finished the novena devotions with the Memorare to St. Anne, An Act of Consecration to St. Anne, and Invocations. This was followed by a solemn Candlelight Procession around the nave with a statue, ombrellino and the Blessed Sacrament. The celebration concluded with a Benediction with the relic of the True Cross.

Normally we would meet up with our friends at the Monte San Giacomo Society and attend the Feast of St. Ann in Hoboken, New Jersey, but since the procession and other festivities were cancelled, thanks to Covid-19's uncanny ability to target only peaceful gatherings, we had a low-key luncheon with family and friends instead.

Evviva Sant’Anna!

~ Giovanni di Napoli, July 27th, Feast of San Pantaleone Martire

Photo of the Week: The Cappella di San Pantaleone, Duomo di Ravello

The Cappella di San Pantaleone, Duomo di Ravello, Salerno
Photo by New York Scugnizzo

Feast of Sant’Anna

Sant’Anna, ora pro nobis

July 26th is the Feast of Sant'Anna, Mother of Mary, patroness of housewives, pregnant women, mothers and grandmothers. Widely venerated across Southern Italy, she is the principal patron of Caserta (CA), Monte San Giacomo (SA), Ischia Ponte (NA), Bacoli (NA), Lettere (NA), Boscotrecase (NA), and Vernole (LE), among others. In celebration, I’m posting a Prayer to Saint Ann. The accompanying photo was taken at Saint Andrew Avellino Roman Catholic Church (35-60 158th Street) in Flushing, Queens, New York. Evviva Sant'Anna!

Prayer to Saint Ann

Good Saint Ann, you were especially favored by God to be the mother of the most holy Virgin Mary, the Mother of our Savior. By your power with your most pure daughter and with her divine Son, kindly obtain for us the grace and the favor we now seek. Please secure for us also forgiveness of our past sins, the strength to perform faithfully our daily duties and the help we need to persevere in the love of Jesus and Mary. Amen.

A Prayer in Memory of Blessed Fr. Jacques Hamel

Born Nov. 30, 1930 — Martyred July 26, 2016

Blessed be the Martyrs, who through their sacrifice, give glory to the Most High God! Blessed be the blood they shed, uniting them with the sacrifice of Jesus Christ! May the Martyrs be welcomed into the Heavenly Kingdom. Blessed be God, who gives courage to all men! May we, too, finish the race and not lose our souls. Blessed be the families of Martyrs, whose hearts have been pierced with sadness. May they be comforted by the Holy Spirit. Blessed be the witness of the Martyrs! May their courage confound the darkness and lead souls to Christ! Blessed be the courage of the Martyrs! May their example embolden and prepare the hearts of others who will soon face their mortality. Blessed be the Martyrs, now and forever! Blessed be God, now and forever! Amen.

Congratulations Crotone! I Squali Returns to Serie A

F.C. Crotone secured promotion to Serie A yesterday with a 5-1 victory over A.S. Livorno Calcio. I Squali, or the Sharks, as they are affectionally known, will join Napoli and Benevento next season in Italy's top-flight football league as representatives of the South. We wish them all the best and much success. Forza Crotone!

Celebrating the Feasts of the Bl. Carmelite Martyrs of Guadalajara & Bl. María Mercè of the Sacred Heart

Monastery of the Precious Blood, Borough Park, Brooklyn

24 July, feast of the Blessed Carmelite Martyrs of Guadalajara, gunned down by Republicans on this day in 1936 during the Spanish Civil War. Holy, humble women killed for their love of Christ & his Church. In the difficulties we face today, may we emulate their fidelity & heroism ~ Fr. John S. Hogan, ocds (Twitter)

July 24th is the feast of Blessed María Mercè of the Sacred Heart, Virgin: Catalan orphan, Teresian nun, school-teacher, and martyr of the Spanish Civil War—murdered by the Reds at Barcelona on this day in 1936. ~ Tradical (Twitter)

Earlier today, in celebration of the Feasts of the Blessed Carmelite Martyrs of Guadalajara, Spain and Blessed María Mercè of the Sacred Heart, I repeated the penitential pilgrimage I made last week in memory of the Blessed Carmelite Martyrs of Compiègne. Beginning and ending at the Monastery of the Precious Blood (5400 Fort Hamilton Pkwy.) in Borough Park, Brooklyn, I took the same route to Visitation Monastery (8902 Ridge Blvd.) in Bay Ridge, returning with brief stops at St. Anselm RC Church (356 82nd St.), St. Ephrem RC Church (929 Bay Ridge Pkwy.) and Leif Ericson Park. Neither the rain or heat kept me from completing the walk.

I recently learned the famed Norse explorer was a Roman Catholic

Praying fifteen decades of the Holy Rosary and my private devotions (e.g. the novena to St. Ann), I included a couple of prayers to the Blessed Martyrs I found online.

Blessed Maria Mercedes

Prayer to Blessed María Mercè of the Sacred Heart (1) 

God of infinite goodness, You gave Blessed Maria Mercedes, virgin, the courage to bring to fullness in martyrdom her offering to You and to the Church. Grant us, through her intercession, the grace to be so firmly rooted in the love of Christ that nothing can ever separate us from this love. Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, Your Son, Who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God for ever and ever. Amen

The Blessed Carmelite Martyrs of Guadalajara, Spain
Blessed Maria Pilar, Teresa of the Child Jesus, and Maria Angeles

Prayer for the Canonization the Blessed Carmelite Martyrs of Guadalajara (2) 

O most loving Jesus who accepted the offer that your faithful Servants Blessed Maria Pilar, Teresa and María Ángeles made of their lives, realizing the ardent desires they had to shed their blood for the triumph of your universal Reign! For the glory they gave you proclaiming your royalty and forgiving their enemies, make all hearts submit to the sweet empire of your love and that the gifts of reconciliation and peace always shine among men and in peoples. 

Grant us the canonization of the Blessed and their ardor in the fulfillment of your Holy Will and help us with the special graces that we now ask of you through their intercession. Amen.

Statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary
outside St. Ephrem RC Church

Thus far America has not regressed to the shameful anti-Catholicism of its recent past, let alone emulate the violence and depravity of the French Revolution or Spanish Civil War, but with the changing mood (i.e the dumbing down) of the populace and the disturbing “uptick” in anti-Catholic incidents taking place around the country, I can’t help but think we Traditional Catholics are fast approaching days of outright religious persecution. The less than admirable response to these incidents from the clergy and the appalling apathy of the laity in general, not to mention the open hostility from corrupt politicians and the Fourth Estate, has only added to my apprehension. If and when that day arrives, I pray, through their intercession, I can face the challenge with the same fidelity and heroism as these holy women.

Blessed Carmelite Martyrs of Guadalajara, ora pro nobis.

Blessed María Mercè of the Sacred Heart, ora pro nobis.

~ Giovanni di Napoli, July 24, Feasts of the Blessed Carmelite Martyrs of Guadalajara and Blessed María Mercè of the Sacred Heart 

Addendum: I later learned that July 24th is also the Feast of Blessed Xavier Piferer Bordas, a Salesian priest murdered during the Spanish Civil War. Blessed Xavier Bordas, ora pro nobis.

Notes:

(1) Source for the Prayer to Blessed María Mercè of the Sacred Heart: www.ocarm.org

(2) Source for the Prayer to the Blessed Carmelite Martyrs of Guadalajara: www.martiresdeguadalajara.net

Feast of the Blessed Carmelite Martyrs of Guadalajara

Blessed Carmelite Martyrs of Guadalajara, orate pro nobis

July 24 is the Feast of the Blessed Carmelite Martyrs of Guadalajara, three discalced nuns murdered by Republican forces in 1936 during the Spanish Civil War. In celebration, we’re posting a Prayer for the Canonization of the Blessed Carmelite Martyrs of Guadalajara. Beatified by Pope John Paul II on March 29, 1987, the Martyrs were Sr. María Pilar de San Francisco de Borja, Sr. María Ángeles de San José, and Sr. Teresa del Niño Jesús y de San Juan de la Cruz. Evviva Blessed Carmelite Martyrs of Guadalajara!

Prayer for the Canonization of the Blessed Carmelite Martyrs of Guadalajara 

O most loving Jesus who accepted the offer that your faithful Servants Blessed Maria Pilar, Teresa and María Ángeles made of their lives, realizing the ardent desires they had to shed their blood for the triumph of your universal Reign! For the glory they gave you proclaiming your royalty and forgiving their enemies, make all hearts submit to the sweet empire of your love and that the gifts of reconciliation and peace always shine among men and in peoples. 

Grant us the canonization of the Blessed and their ardor in the fulfillment of your Holy Will and help us with the special graces that we now ask of you through their intercession. Amen.

Meridiunalata XIX: 'Nun se po’ ‘sta luntano' di Pino Rispo | 'One Can't Stay Far Away' by Pino Rispo

The Glorious Bay of Naples, photo by New York Scugnizzo

In this installment Meridiunalata, a bilingual offering of Duosiciliano poetry, we're featuring the Neapolitan poetry of Pino Rispo D.R.

Nun se po’ ‘sta luntano
Di Pino Rispo

Aggia campá luntano
Ma nun ce ‘a faccio
Aggia sunná a te ‘o saccio
Ogne notte sí sempe chella
Tutt’’e notte sí unica e sempe bella
Quanta storie ‘ncuolle a te
‘A gente parlano male senza sapé

Sé sbagliava Francesco....
Ce sò rimaste ll’uocchie p’’e chiagnere...
Ma quanti ‘nfame
Ca fanno fint’’e niente
Ma quanne staje luntane...
Vulisse vulá ‘miez’’o viento
Quanne staje fora capisci..
Che tte manca…
Tanno ddato ‘nata storia
Pò he saputo chella vera
E liegge liegge e maje te stanca…

Pò tien’’a chille ca sò fedele
E te vonno ‘nu mar’’e bbene
Invece po’ chille ca venenen’’a fora
Pa’ priezza vulessene tuccá
‘Stu cielo cu’’e mmane....
Cara Napule...
Stá arrivann’’o ghiuorno
Tutte ‘nzieme avimme accunciá
Chesta storia
P’’e chest’’antica patria
Turnará ‘a gloria!!

One Can't Stay Far Away
By Pino Rispo

I have to live far away
But I can’t manage it
I have to dream of you I know
Every night you’re the one
Every night you’re unique and always beautiful
How many stories heaped on you
People speak ill without knowing

[King] Francis was wrong....
You’re eyes are left to cry...
But how many infamous people
Pretend nothing is wrong
But when you’re far away...
You’d like to fly through the air
When you’re abroad you understand...
What you miss…
They gave you another history

Then you learned the real one
And you read and read and never get tired...
Then you’ll have those who are faithful
And who wish you a sea of love
While those who come from abroad
For joy they’d like to touch
This sky with their hands....
Dear Naples...
The day is coming
All together we have to set this history
Right
For this ancient homeland
Glory shall return!!

Translated by Cav. Sant'Elia

* King Francis II of the Two Sicilies, upon going into exile in 1860 to end further bloodshed, famously observed the violence and ransacking against civilians that ensued, and said that the cruel new rulers who occupied his kingdom by force “will not even leave you your eyes to cry with”.

Celebrating the Seventh Sunday After Pentecost and Solemn Novena to Good St. Anne in New York City

Sant'Anna, ora pro nobis

St. Anne, instrument of the Holy Ghost, mother of confidence, vessel of sanctity, merciful mother, comfortress of afflicted, help of the poor, protectress of virgins, support of the oppressed, refuge of thy clients, Pray for us!

For nine consecutive nights (July 18th-26th) the Shrine Church of the Holy Innocents (128 West 37th St.) in New York City will celebrate Traditional Latin Mass, Novena prayers and candlelight procession in honor of Good St. Anne, Mother of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Grandmother of Our Lord Jesus Christ.

The Feast of St. Anne will be celebrated on Sunday, July 26th at 10:30AM with a Traditional Latin High Mass and candlelight procession. Reserve a seat at Holy Innocents Mass Reservation.

Photos from Sunday’s candlelight procession courtesy of Andrew Giordano.

(Above & below) The candlelight procession circles the nave three times

Vigil candles were available for purchase

A Prayer for Nantes

St. Rogatien, courtesy of the Cathédrale
Sainte-Pierre et Saint-Paul de Nantes

Our thoughts and prayers are with the people of France following the July 18th arson attack on historic Saint-Pierre-et-Saint-Paul Cathedral in Nantes. It seems the vile spirit of Jean-Baptiste Carrier lives, as attacks against the Eldest Daughter of the Church continue unabated. May Saints Peter and Paul, and the Holy Martyrs Donatien and Rogatien watch over you.

Prayer to Sts. Peter and Paul for the Holy Catholic Church

Defend, O Lord, thy servants, we beseech thee, from all dangers both of body and soul; and, by the intercession of the blessed and glorious Virgin Mary, Mother of God, of the blessed Apostles Peter and Paul, of the blessed Martyrs Donatien and Rogatien, and of all thy saints, mercifully grant us the blessings of peace and safety; that all adversities and errors being removed, thy Church may freely and securely serve thee; through Christ Our Lord. Amen.

Celebrating the Feast of the Blessed Carmelite Martyrs of Compiègne in Brooklyn, New York

Monastery of the Precious Blood, Borough Park, Brooklyn

Simple women living a hidden life of prayer & sacrifice were correctly understood by the Revolutionaries to be the greatest threat. When you make God your enemy, servants of prayer are dangerous, they can achieve a counterrevolution through oblation. Remember that, friends: pray! ~ Fr. John S. Hogan, ocds

Inspired by a tweet by Fr. John S. Hogan, I made a round trip pilgrimage Friday afternoon in honor of the Blessed Carmelite Martyrs of Compiègne, sixteen nuns executed on July 17, 1794 during the Reign of Terror in France. Starting from the Monastery of the Precious Blood (5400 Fort Hamilton Pkwy.) in Borough Park, Brooklyn, I made my way to Visitation Monastery (8902 Ridge Blvd.) in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn, then back again. It was approximately five miles long.

Armed with scapular and Rosary, I chose to start and end the pilgrimage at Precious Blood Monastery because the month of July is dedicated to the Most Precious Blood of Our Lord. Additionally, it is also home to the Sisters Adorers of the Precious Blood and the Servants of the Lord and the Virgin of Matará, a contemplative community under the patronage of St. Edith Stein (1891-1942), a discalced Carmelite nun and Martyr.

Seeing as it was the second day of the Novena, I thought it would be appropriate to begin the pilgrimage with a prayer to San Giacomo.

St. James, We come to you in eager pilgrimage. We come as part of a great throng of pilgrims who through the centuries have come to this place, where you are pilgrim and host, apostle and patron. We come to you today because we are on a common journey. Place yourself, patron of pilgrims, at the head of our pilgrimage. Teach us, apostle and friend of the Lord, the Way which leads to him. Open us, preacher of the Gospel, to the Truth you learned from your Master’s lips. Give us, witness of the faith, the strength always to love the Life Christ gives. We pray in Jesus’ name. Amen.

McKinley Park, Dyker Heights, Brooklyn

Briefly stopping for shade and prayer at McKinley Park, St. Ephrem RC Church (929 Bay Ridge Pkwy.), and St. Anselm RC Church (356 82nd St.), the plan was to pray the traditional fifteen decades of the Holy Rosary, a few private devotions (e.g. novena to the Infant of Prague), and special intentions for our brethren under siege in St. Louis, California, and elsewhere. Having made good time, I decided to extend the penitential excursion an additional half-mile to include nearby St. Patrick RC Church (9511 4th Ave.) in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn.

Crucifix outside St. Anselm RC Church, Bay Ridge, Brooklyn

Unfortunately, due to the spontaneity of the walk, none of my confratelli were able to join me. Though interested, they understandably wished I gave them a little more notice. Depending on what happens in the coming months with the pandemic and the inane politics surrounding it, they just may get their wish because I plan on doing a second pilgrimage on Wednesday, November 18th for the Feast of the Seven Martyrs of Madrid who were executed by anarchists in 1936 during the Spanish Civil War. This time however, I will reverse the route, beginning and ending at Visitation Monastery, because the martyrs were members of the Order of the Visitation of Holy Mary and an image of the seven nuns is on display inside the church.

Visitation Monastery, Bay Ridge, Brooklyn

A time of upheaval and confusion, the recent spate of anti-Catholic attacks around the country has inspired me to step-up my daily prayer routine and do more. While we cannot sit idly bye and tolerate the desecration of sacred images, church arson, and the increasing violent assaults against catholics, we must be mindful not to stoop to the level of the enemy. Reminiscent of Joseph de Maistre’s (1753-1821) often quoted maxim, “What is needed is not a revolution in the opposite direction, but the opposite of a revolution,” Fr. Hogan has wisely pointed out, the enemy fears and hates us, and the best way to achieve counterrevolution is through oblation. 

~ Giovanni di Napoli, July 18, Feast of St. Camillus de Lellis

Image of the Seven Martyrs of Madrid inside Visitation Monastery

Our Lady of Lourdes shrine outside St. Patrick Church

Photo of the Week: Votive Wall Shrine to Our Lady Help of Christians in Piazza Bellini, Naples

Photo by Andrew Giordano

Celebrating the Feast of St. Veronica and the Sixth Sunday after Pentecost

Marco, Andrew, John, Mary and Carmella with the flag of the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies. Photos by Caterina Nessùno

After nearly four months of Church lockdowns, members of the Fratelli della Santa Fede (Brothers of the Holy Faith) finally resumed group worship again by celebrating the Sixth Sunday after Pentecost and the Feast of Saint Veronica at the Shrine Church of the Holy Innocents (128 W 37th St.) in Midtown Manhattan. Attending both the 9:00 am Tridentine Low Mass and the 10:30 am Tridentine High Mass, we observed social distancing rules and sat in the balcony, leaving the diminished seating in the nave for the elderly, handicapped and families with children. Our Pastor Fr. James Miara was the celebrant at both Masses and offered the first for the parishioners and the second for the poor and forgotten Souls in Purgatory registered in the Holy Innocents’ Purgatorial Society.

Still unable to congregate in the church hall, after Mass we caught up with some old friends outside and discussed a myriad of topics, both happy and sad. It was only a reunion of sorts, since most of us have remained in close contact with video conferencing and the telephone. Naturally, with limited places for traditional minded people to go and worship, it was only a matter of time before we met other legitimists, in this case Carlists, and proudly flew the glorious Saltire of Burgundy.

Tito, Andrew and Daniel with the Cross of Burgundy

Parting ways, a few Sanfedisti returned to Gravesend, Brooklyn for our customary Sunday luncheon at Joe’s of Avenue U (287 Ave. U). For those who don’t know, Joe’s is one of few remaining old-school Sicilian trattorias left in Brooklyn specializing in traditional Palermo-style cuisine. Except for the outdoor dinning, we’re happy to say nothing has really changed since the Wuhan pandemic shut down the city back in March. As always, the food was delicious and the service was great; so please go and support them, you won’t be disappointed.

Engrossed in our meal, lively conversation, and the disappointing Napoli game against Milan, which finished in 2-2 draw, we nearly missed our new friend Marco who was sporting Ernie Rossi’s popular Due Sicilie coat-of-arms T-shirt. Finishing a meal with his family only a few tables away from us, we introduced ourselves and ended up having a nice conversation with them about Sicilian history, the old neighborhood and, unavoidably, the current state of the country. Marco’s mother, Carmella, gave me a much needed lesson in the Sicilian language and some good advice on how to learn it: find a good Sicilian woman.

An overall great day, I look forward to continuing our group activities (spiritual warfare, charity, etc.) and celebrating our faith and culture together. We need this now more than ever, especially after the spate of violent anti-Catholic attacks occurring around the country.

God bless you all and stay safe during these difficult times. Evviva Santa Trofimena!

~ Giovanni di Napoli, July 13th, Feast of Santa Trofimena di Minori

Bucatini con cavolfiore alla palermitana

Salsiccia e patate

Vitello alla Milanese

Photo of the Week: Monument to Santa Trofimena, Virgin and Martyr, in Minori, Salerno

Photo by New York Scugnizzo

New Music — Scarlatti: Complete Keyboard Sonatas 6

Forthcoming music that may be of interest to our readers.

• Scarlatti: Complete Keyboard Sonatas 6 performed by Carlo Grante

Label: Music & Arts Program
Release Date: July 17, 2020
Box Set: $74.99
Number of Discs: 7

Available at Amazon.com

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Prayer for The United States of America Composed by His Excellency Archbishop Carlo Maria Viganò

His Excellency Archbishop Carlo Maria Viganò

Almighty and Eternal God, King of Kings and Lord of Lords: graciously turn your gaze to us who invoke You with confidence.

Bless us, citizens of the United States of America; grant peace and prosperity to our Nation; illuminate those who govern us so that they may commit themselves to the common good, in respect for Your holy Law.

Protect those who, defending the inviolable principles of the Natural Law and Your Commandments, must face the repeated assaults of the Enemy of the human race.

Keep in the hearts of Your children courage for the truth, love for virtue and perseverance in the midst of trials.

Make our families grow in the example that Our Lord has given us, together with His Most Holy Mother and Saint Joseph in the home of Nazareth; give to our fathers and mothers the gift of Strength, to educate wisely the children with which you have blessed them.

Give courage to those who, in spiritual combat, fight the good fight as soldiers of Christ against the furious forces of the children of darkness.

Keep each one of us, O Lord, in your Most Sacred Heart, and above all He whom Your Providence has placed at the head of our Nation.

Bless the President of the United States of America, so that aware of his responsibility and his duties, he may be a knight of justice, a defender of the oppressed, a firm bulwark against Your enemies, and a proud supporter of the children of light.

Place the United States of America and the whole world under the mantle of the Queen of Victories, our Unconquered Leader in battle, the Immaculate Conception. It is thanks to her, and through your Mercy, that the hymn of praise rises to you, O Lord, from the children whom you have redeemed in the Most Precious Blood of Our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

Source: https://taylormarshall.com/vigano

Feast of Santa Veronica Giuliani

Santa Veronica Giuliani, ora pro nobis

“It is not time to rest but to suffer.” ~ Diary of Santa Veronica Giuliani

July 9th is the Feast of Santa Veronica Giuliani (1660-1727), Capuchin Poor Clare and Mystic. Owing to a quaint childhood anecdote, she is the patron saint of fencers (schermitori). According to tradition, she was upset with an older cousin who was neglecting his prayers in order to practice fencing. Challenging him to a duel, she wounded him in the hand just enough to make him rest and contemplate his poor decision. With a deep-seated devotion to the Passion of our Lord Jesus Christ, she entered the Capuchin convent at Città di Castello in Umbria at the age of seventeen. Subject to numerous celestial and infernal visions, she received amid untold sufferings the gift of the stigmata, the Crown of Thorns, and Mystical Espousal to Christ. In celebration, I’m posting a prayer to St. Veronica Giuliani. The accompanying photo of Santa Veronica Giuliani was taken at the Chiesa Parrocchiale della SS. Immacolata in Salerno, Campania. Evviva Santa Veroniva Giuliani!

Prayer to St. Veronica Giuliani

O Lord Jesus Christ, who did glorify St. Veronica by the marks of Thy suffering grant us the grace to crucify our flesh and thus become worthy of attaining to the joys of eternity. Who lives and reigns forever and ever. Amen.

New Music — Scarlatti: Sonatas / Variaciones del Fandango Espanol

Forthcoming music that may be of interest to our readers.

• Scarlatti: Sonatas / Variaciones del fandango espanol performed by Andreas Staier

Label: Erato
Release Date: July 24, 2020
Audio CD: $9.98
Number of Discs: 2

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Help Support "Mass of the Ages — How Tradition Will Restore the Church" on Kickstarter

A stunning documentary on the Latin Mass. Investigates the connection between worship and belief with real stories and expert interviews.

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Feast of Santa Elisabetta of Portugal

Santa Elisabetta, ora pro nobis

July 8th is the Feast of Santa Elisabetta of Portugal, Holy Queen and Peacemaker. She is the patron saint of nurses, the poor, the homeless and widows. Born in Zaragoza, Spain in 1271, she was the daughter of King Pedro III of Aragon and Queen Constantia II of Sicily. Named after her great-aunt St. Elizabeth of Hungary, she lived a pious life of prayer and sacrifice. A tertiary of the Franciscan Order, her compassion towards the sick and the poor endeared her to the whole of Christendom. She famously rode her horse between the apposing armies of her husband and rebellious son and reconciled them before there was any bloodshed. In celebration, I'm posting a Prayer to St. Elizabeth of Portugal. The accompanying photo was taken at the National Centre for Padre Pio in Barto, Pennsylvania. Evviva Santa Elisabetta!

Prayer to St. Elizabeth of Portugal

Father of peace and love, you gave Saint Elizabeth the gift of reconciling enemies. By the help of her prayers give us the courage to work for peace among men, that we may be called the sons of God. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

New Kindle: The History of Ancient Calabria, In Strabo’s Geographica

New title that may be of interest to our readers. Available at Amazon.com

• The History of Ancient Calabria, In Strabo’s Geographica by Michael Caputo

Publisher: Ascent Educational
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Publication Date: May 20, 2020
Kindle: $0.99
Language: English
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Photo of the Week: Columbus Exhibit at the Knights of Columbus Museum in New Haven, Connecticut

Fondly recalling my visit to the Knights of Columbus Museum in New Haven, Connecticut back in 2012. Photo by New York Scugnizzo

Around the Web: Historian Charles A. Coulombe Made the Rounds 4th of July Weekend to Discuss Columbus, Independence Day and Much More

Sensus Fidelium Podcast — Smashing Columbus with Brother Andre and Charles Coulombe

The Meaning of Catholic Podcast — America’s First Civil War with Charles Coulombe

Off the Menu Podcast — Episode 145: The Decoration of Independence

New Music — Scarlatti: Stabat Mater - Campra: Messe des Morts (Requiem)

Forthcoming music that may be of interest to our readers.

• Scarlatti: Stabat Mater - Campra: Messe des morts (Requiem) performed by English Baroque Soloists / Gardiner, John Eliot

Label: Erato
Release Date: July 24, 2020
Audio CD: $9.98
Number of Discs: 2

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New Book — Terra Incognita: The Rediscovery of an Italian People with No Name

New title that may be of interest to our readers. Available at Amazon.com

• Terra Incognita: The Rediscovery of an Italian People with No Name by Massimo Ossanna

Publisher: L’Erma Di Bretschneider
Publication Date: June 30, 2020
Paperback: $170.00
Language: English
Pages: 226

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Feast of the Madonna della Visitazione

Madonna della Visitazione, ora pro nobis

July 2nd is the Feast of the Madonna della Visitazione, or the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, patroness of Enna, Sicily. Commemorating the pregnancies of the Blessed Mother and Saint Elizabeth, the feast also celebrates the cleansing of the unborn Saint John the Baptist from original sin.

Following the Annunciation, Mary went to Judea to visit her elderly cousin Elizabeth and her husband Zachariah. Childless and too old to conceive, Elizabeth was miraculously pregnant with John, the holy prophet and herald of our Lord Jesus Christ. When Elizabeth greeted Mary, the unborn John leaped for joy in his mother’s womb.

In celebration, I’m posting a prayer for the Feast of Our Lady of the Visitation. The accompanying photo of The Visitation by Belisario Corenzio, courtesy of Andrew Giordano, was taken in the Duomo di Salerno. Evviva Madonna della Visitazione!

Prayer for the Feast of Our Lady of the Visitation

Bestow upon Thy servants, we beseech Thee, O Lord, the gift of Thy heavenly grace: that as the childbearing of the Blessed Virgin was the beginning of our salvation, so the solemn feast of her Visitation may bring us an increase of peace. Through our Lord.

Feast of San Nicasio Camuto de Burgio

San Nicasio Camuto de Burgio, ora pro nobis

July 1st is the Feast of San Nicasio Camuto de Burgio, Knight of Malta and Martyr. Born in Sicily circa 1135, San Nicasio is descended from a Saracen Emir who converted to Christianity following the Norman reconquest of the isle. Joining the Knights Hospitaller, he fought to defend Christendom at Acre and was captured at the Battle of Hattin in 1187. Refusing to renounce his faith, the devout Crusader, along with his brother Ferrandino and other prisoners, were beheaded in the presence of the Sultan Saladin. San Nicasio is the patron saint of Caccamo (PA), Sicily. In celebration, I’m posting a Prayer to St. Nicaise.(1) Pictured are a pair of Sovereign Order of Malta postage stamps depicting the glorious martyr.(2) Evviva San Nicasio!

Prayer to St. Nicaise

O God, every year you give us joy in the commemoration of your martyr, blessed Nicasius: grant that through his prayers and example the companions of our Order may grow in faith and always follow you with all their hearts. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ your Son who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

(1) Prayer courtesy of the Sovrano Military Ordine di Malta

(2) The stamps show the painting of the Madonna di Constantinople and detail of San Nicasio by the great Cavaliere Calabrese, Mattia Preti (1613-1699). An ex-voto for freeing Naples from the plague of 1656, the painting portrays the Blessed Mother crowning Santa Rosalia with San Giuseppe, San Gennaro, San Rocco and San Nicasio in attendance. The painting is held at the National Museum of Capodimonte in Naples.