Solopaca's Madonna Del Roseto Tradition

Bringing the Madonna down from the Mountain Church....

The first Sunday in June is a time for my family to remember their Italian heritage. My husband's mother's family came from Solopaca, Italy, where they have had a Madonna Del Roseto procession and celebration for decades.

Immigrants from Italy to America still honor this tradition and have a replica statue and their own Madonna Del Roseto celebration here every year, not far from where we live. Families come from many states to reconnect with their "Solopachesi."

When my children have made their First Holy Communions, Grandmom arranges for them to be the crowner of the Madonna at the Mass. After Mass the statue of Mary holding baby Jesus is paraded around the church. Then the families all meet at a banquet hall for a meal and dancing.

Here's a video from years ago with my daughter dancing to Italian music with her Father at the after party.

Here is our statue. The baby Jesus could use a haircut! And here is a "crowning" from a few years back.

Below is my daughter with "Mr. Tickets" who calls out the auction winners of the gift baskets that the organizers create. It's a highlight of the evening to hear the banter that comes from this adorable gentleman! He's of the same family name as Padre Pio.
And this is my Mother-in-law, whose mother came from the village. We are so proud to join her every year and honor our dear "Nan" and heritage.

"Grazie per tutto. Tutto era molto buono!"