Friday evening, members and friends of the San Rocco Society of New York gathered in Dyker Heights, Brooklyn, for our Annual Fucarazzo di Sant'Antuono, or St. Anthony bonfire. Honoring the father of Western monasticism, the purifying blaze is an ancient tradition meant to ward off evil spirits, protect animals and livestock, and secure a bountiful harvest. Representing the Saint's triumph over Satan and temptation, 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 seemingly endless warmth and hospitality. As always, it was a great joy to celebrate our faith and culture together. Evviva Sant'Antuono!
