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MSS Feast – Norristown, PA
August 13 @ 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
119th FEAST OF LA MADONNA DEL SOCCORSO
The M.S.S. Lodge of Norristown will celebrate the Feast of their patroness Maria Santissima del Soccorso di Sciacca as a TWO-DAY event in air conditioned Saviour Hall (formerly Monsignor Delia Hall) on August 12 & 13, 2023.
The East-end celebration, a 119-year-old tradition this year, was brought to the Borough of Norristown at the turn of the last century by the immigrants from Sciacca, a small fishing village in Sicily. The Madonna del Soccorso, (which means Lady of Perpetual Help) became the Patroness of Sciacca after the citizens believed, it was through her intercession, that a plague that had broken out in Sicily 500 years ago, came to an end.
The Norristown Lodge originated 119 years ago to help poor Italian immigrants who entered Norristown at the turn of the century. The society’s founders named the organization after the Madonna, and promised to continue the centuries old tradition in their new community in Norristown. The M.S.S. Feast is the oldest Italian Feast in Montgomery County.
This year’s celebration includes plenty of good Italian food and music. It will begin on Saturday August 12 at 3:00pm. Entertainment will be provided by the Main Street Band. The Festival will continue on Sunday August 13 at 10:00am. The highlight of the feast is the Solemn Concelebrated Mass at 11:30 a.m. at Holy Saviour Church. Main celebrant is Monsignor John C. Marine whose maternal ancestors came from Sciacca, Monsignor Charles Sangermano, Pastor, and several other priests.
After the Mass, the traditional Street Procession take place on East Main Street. Twenty-five people will carry a life size statue of the Madonna on their backs. The Verdi Band of Norristown will accompany the procession.
The social activities will include Music and entertainment by singer/accordion Player Jerry Trecroce. Free parking is provided in the Holy Saviour Church lot.