By: Raymond Guarini
The 136th Mass and Procession for the Saint Rocco Society of Potenza was as spectacular as it ever was despite numerous setbacks. Saint Rocco always finds a way, and so does Stephen LaRocca and the loyal members of the Saint Rocco Society. This year was particularly difficult due to the loss of our beloved member, Anna Cesare.
How to describe the Mass and Procession of Saint Rocco:
Each year in August’s heat, the Mass is held in a church more than a century old, which was never updated with air conditioning. Nevertheless, there is something special about this exact same challenging condition that connects us to our ancestors and their devotion. After Mass is finished, devotees wait outside the church as the band serenades them with southern Italian folk songs. Loudspeakers also play traditional Italian tunes. The statue is then brought to front of the church to be presented to the crowd. Confetti poppers pop and confetti flies all over as Stephen LaRocca and the Society Members yell: “Viva San Rocco.” In unison with the band erupting at Saint Rocco’s arrival. The statue is set in the street as it is dressed with a cloak made of cash donations which are usually given in exchange for a special grace needed or already received.
I was happy to participate in yet another Saint Rocco procession. Now, more than ever, this society needs support from the Italian American communities and Catholic Communities in the Tri-State to be a part of our annual procession. The society can always use more devoted Catholic people to carry the statue in procession or one of the many banners. For anyone interested please reach out to: italianenclavesnonprofit@gmail.com.
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