Italian Festival, 2022

 

What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him? If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, be warmed and filled,” without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that? So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. (James 2:14-17 ESV).

 

Mary and I have just returned from the annual Italian Festival held each year on the Saturday nearest St. Joseph’s Day, which is March 19^th. Since my family members are all descendants from Sicilian immigrants, this festival is especially meaningful. A little background will be helpful, especially if you are not familiar with such traditions. As you might expect, Sicily has many religious festivals, many dating back to ancient times. March 19^th is celebrated throughout Italy as a day of honoring and giving thanks to Saint Joseph the patron saint of workers and artisans. It is also Father’s Day throughout Italy. The picture I’ve included is of the altar that was displayed at the historical home of one of my cousins. The day began with a brief time of worship and prayer led by the local priests asking for blessings on all.

 

The story is told that the first celebration was held just following a severe drought, in the Middle Ages, when crops were failing and families were starving. The people prayed to St. Joseph to help them by sending rain. They promised a feast in his name if he could answer their prayers. The rain came, crops were planted and the people kept their word and now every year prepare a table (tavola) of thanks to St. Joseph. Traditionally, the tables have a three stepped display, representing the Holy Trinity. There are both public and private St. Joseph's tables and much of the food is donated, this is called the "questua". Although each table will be different they will all display an effigy of Joseph holding Jesus.

 

While the “table” pictured here is not as large as some in other places, there were many other baked goods available as donations were collected to be given to the local church to use in their ministry to the poor and hungry of the area. Of course, there was plenty of fun and fellowship reuniting with family and friends not seen in some time. And, as might be expected from an Italian festival there was lots of food! My point is this… we cannot miss an opportunity to gather in celebration with family; and, we must be careful to help others who may not be as fortunate as we. As our reading makes clear, that is the essence of the expression of our faith. Be careful to express your faith to those who are in need around you each day of the year.