Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church, an Italian National Parish in San Diego will hold its "Marian" or "Our Lady of the Rosary Festa." There is a special Mass where all parish societies and groups carry their banners in the opening procession. In years past the Bishop of the Diocese of San Diego, now a Cardinal, has celebrated the Mass. After Mass they, along with the public who are welcomed to join, process or parade through the streets of the Little Italy neighborhood down to the harbor. There, along the Embarcadero, a boat is blessed, and fireworks are set off. The procession then parades back to the church where there is a benediction and doves are set free signifying peace. Afterwards there is a complimentary luncheon in the Parish Hall.
Our Lady of the Rosary Festa commemorates the October 7th victory of the combined Christian European fleets of the Holy League of 1571 over the Ottoman navy at the Battle of Lepanto and was originally called the "Feast of Our Lady of Victory."
Below are photos from past Festas.
What: Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary
Where: Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church
1668 State Street San Diego, CA 92101
(619)234-4820
When: Sunday, October 1st, 2023
11:00 am Rosary
12:00 Mass
1:30 Procession
Past Festas:
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