Celebrating the Feast of Sant'Antuono Abate at Saint Josaphat’s Church in Bayside, Queens

Father Saffron offers a benediction by the fire

A time is coming when men will go mad, and when they see someone who is not mad, they will attack him, saying, “You are mad, you are not like us.” ~ St. Anthony the Great

A good time was had by all

Tuesday evening, following the weekly Rite of Eucharistic Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and monthly Catechism Lecture by Father John Perricone at St. Josaphat’s Church in Bayside, Queens, Pastor Stephen Saffron celebrated the Feast of St. Anthony the Abbot with a traditional Fucarazzo di Sant'Antuono (St. Anthony bonfire) in the church courtyard.

Blessing the fire and the 50-some-odd attendees, Father Saffron spoke at length with the guests about the ascetic life of the great Saint and the many miracles attributed to him. 

After the benediction, parishioners adjourned to the parish hall for coffee hour. In addition to the usual fare, attendees brought customary pork dishes in honor of St. Anthony the Abbot, including a variety of dried sausages and pulled pork.

Many, who were unfamiliar with the tradition, voiced their approval and spoke of making the celebration bigger and better next year. We're already looking forward to it. Evviva Sant'Antouno Abate!

Father Perricone gave another inspirational talk

After Adoration, attendees fill the parish hall for the lecture

Andrew and Bill prepare the kindling

(Above & below) Parishioners gather around the fire

Affettati e formaggi donated by the Sanfedisti