Every year, the vibrant Italian-American community celebrates with the the Maria Santissima Lauretana organization at an annual feast, a deeply rooted tradition that honors the Madonna of Loreto. This cherished event, filled with religious significance, cultural heritage, and festive activities, draws thousands of attendees and has a sister celebration in Arizona.
The Maria Santissima Lauretana Feast traces its origins to the town of Altavilla Milicia in Sicily, where the veneration of the Madonna of Loreto has been a longstanding tradition. The devotion to Maria Santissima Lauretana, known as the protector of the town, is deeply ingrained in the hearts of the locals. When immigrants from Altavilla Milicia settled in Illinois, they brought their beloved tradition with them. They established the Maria Santissima Lauretana Society, and the first feast was held in 1900, echoing the celebrations from their homeland.
One of the most unique and cherished traditions of the Maria Santissima Lauretana Feast is the “Flying of the Angels” (“Il Volo degli Angeli”). This captivating ceremony involves young children dressed as angels who are suspended on wires and “fly” down towards the statue of the Madonna, symbolizing the descent of angels from heaven to honor her. The flying of the angels is both a visual spectacle and a profound expression of faith, captivating attendees and bringing a sense of wonder and reverence to the celebration. The angels represent the Archangels Gabriel and Michael re-enacting the events of the Annunciation in beautiful versus sung in Sicilian dialect to the Madonna.
For many attendees, the feast is a time of spiritual renewal and devotion. The religious ceremonies, including masses, processions, and the flying of the angels, provide a space for reflection, prayer and reaffirmation of faith.
The feast of Maria Santissima Lauretana in Altavilla Milicia, Sicily, dates back to the 17th century. The tradition began in 1621 when a statue of the Madonna of Loreto was brought to the town. The statue was believed to possess miraculous powers, and its arrival marked the beginning of the annual celebrations in her honor. The feast quickly became an integral part of the town’s religious and cultural life, celebrated with processions, religious services, and community gatherings, and has continued to be a significant event for centuries.
This year’s Maria SS. Laurentana Feast and Carneval will be held August 30th through September 2. Check out their website for events and more information.
