This year, Candlemas of Montevergine was celebrated remotely. The sanctuary of Mercogliano, a symbolic destination of the traditional "juta dei femminielli" (feminine procession) and a point of reference for many faithful, particularly those from the LGBTQ+ community, remained closed due to a landslide that since November 25th has affected traffic in the area, making it impossible to guarantee safe conditions for the influx of pilgrims.
The abbey that houses the image of "Mamma Schiavona" was unable to accommodate the thousands of people who flock to the sanctuary every February 2nd for the feast of the Presentation of the Lord. The monastic community, led by Abbot Riccardo Luca Guariglia, nevertheless celebrated the liturgy within the complex, choosing to livestream the rite on the sanctuary's official Facebook page, with broadcasts also being broadcast on local television stations.
At the conclusion of the celebration, during the singing of the Regina Coeli, the abbot turned his thoughts to the pilgrims unable to ascend Montevergine, entrusting them to the protection of the Madonna and thanking them for their closeness and participation, even from a distance. This was a sign of spiritual continuity in a year marked by the physical absence of one of the most heartfelt religious and popular celebrations in Southern Italy.
The monastic community has already announced that, as soon as the sanctuary can safely reopen, a celebration will be organized specifically for pilgrims tied to the Candlemas tradition, to keep alive an event that unites faith, identity, and hospitality.
Today, February 2nd, we celebrate Candlemas, a holiday marking the transition between the winter solstice and the spring equinox, symbolizing the lengthening of the days and the beginning of nature's awakening. Rooted in both pagan and religious traditions, the holiday is celebrated in different countries with different rites and customs. In Montevergine, in Irpinia, Candlemas…
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Comments (1)
The idea of hosting the service live was very interesting and helpful, even though it's not the same as being physically present. We hope the sanctuary will soon reopen to all pilgrims and faithful.