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| Fucarazzo di Sant'Antuono |
Representing the Saint's triumph over temptation and the Devil, the fire ritual also signifies a time of renewal, or regeneration, as spring draws near and winter comes to an end. A magical night, old tales tell that animals regain the ability to speak and misfortune befalls those who overhear them.
Patron saint of animals, livestock, farmers, anchorites, hospitallers, basket makers, bell ringers, gravediggers, amputees, pizza makers, and the glowing embers of hearths; Sant'Antuono is also invoked against pestilence, skin maladies, ergotism, contagious diseases and demonic possession, among other things.
Taking comfort around the protecting flames, revelers ate, drank and prayed to our beloved patron. Continuing into the night, the fire was steadily fed old Christmas trees, dried palm fronds from Palm Sunday, and other kindling from the garden.
Heartfelt thanks to the La Rocca family for their incomparable warmth and hospitality. As always, it was a great joy to celebrate our faith and culture together. Evviva Sant'Antuono!
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| Father Juan Luxamma blesses the fire and the participants |
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| Revelers gather around the fire |
Updated for 2024
