January 18, 2021

Celebrating the Feast of Sant'Antuono Abate

Sant'Antuono Abate, ora pro nobis
Saturday, January 16th — A handful of us gathered in Bellmore, Long Island Saturday evening to commemorate the birthday of Servant of God Francesco II di Borbone, the last king of the Two Sicilies, and the eve of the Feast of Sant’Antuono Abate with prayer and a traditional Fucarazzo di Sant'Antuono, or St. Anthony bonfire. Said to ward off evil spirits, the purifying conflagration also signifies the coming of spring and the end of winter.  
(L) Fucarazzo di Sant'Antuono, or St. Anthony’s Bonfire.
(R) Andrew removes the potatoes from the ashes

Since we abstain from meat on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays as part of our Brown Scapular devotion and Friday penance, as well as being a vigil to a great feast, the evening was more solemn and contemplative than festive. Meditating in silence most of the night, devotees finally broke the fast at midnight with potatoes baked in the hot ashes and a few shots of amaro in honor of His Majesty and our glorious Wonderworker.

* * *

Our gracious host Stephen with image of Sant'Antuono

Sunday, January 17th — Continuing the observance the next day at sundown, we joined our San Rocco Society brethren in Dyker Heights, Brooklyn for their annual Feast Day celebration. The festivities kicked-off with prayers by our host Stephen La Rocca, which were unintentionally accentuated by the 6pm tolling of church bells. 

Revelers enjoying the protective flames of the bonfire

Less austere than the vigil, partygoers ate, drank and mingled around the fire. Since it's customary to eat pig on the feast, most of the dishes had at least some pork in them. 


Continuing well into the night, the fire was steadily fed Christmas trees, dried palm fronds from Palm Sunday, and other kindling from the garden. Considering how tough things have been of late and how grim our Nation's prospects look, it was no surprise a few diehards didn't want the time-honored tradition to end.

Hot and sweet sausages on the grill

Heartfelt thanks to The Giordano family in Long Island and the La Rocca family in Brooklyn for your warmth and hospitality. As always, it was a great joy to celebrate our faith and culture together. Evviva Sant'Antuono!