Xaghra Parish » Gallery » Randan 2008 » 14 MAR 08 FEAST OF OUR LADY OF SORROWS
In perfect spring like weather, the traditional procession of Our Lady of Sorrows, was held in Xaghra on Friday 14 March 2008, the earliest date on which it could take place. This procession is held in many towns and villages all over the Maltese islands and Xaghra was one of them. Here too, one finds deep rooted devotion to the Sorrowing Mother and the feast is celebrated with the utmost religiosity. The artistic statue of Our Lady is carried along the main streets of the town with a large crowd of parishioners young and old congregated following the procession which left the Basilica at 6.00 p.m. The statue was stopped at the beginning of the parvis, while the local œVictory Band, directed by Mro Joseph Galea L.C.M., played the Hymn dedicated to it. It then marched along the route in front of the statue playing funereal marches adding to the solemnity of the occasion. The chapter and clergy of the Basilica followed behind the statue with the Archpriest, Mgr. Carmelo Refalo carrying the reliquary of Our Lady. The many hundreds of faithful followed reciting the Rosary which was being relayed on public address system and singing hymns for the occasion. The procession passed through 8th September Avenue, Maria Bambina, Windmill, Imqades, and Frangisk Camilleri Streets returning to the Basilica at 7.00 p.m. Mass was then celebrated with Archpriest Mgr Carmelo Refalo being the main celebrant. Concelebrating with him were Mgr Carmelo Hili, Can. Anthony Refalo Zammit, Can John Bartolo, Can George Farrugia, Can. Julian Refalo Rapa, Can. Joseph Sultana, Fr Joseph Bajada and Fr. Jesmond Gauci. The Choir Voci Angeliche of the Parish directed by Ms Grace Vella animated the singing accompanied by young Mario Curmi playing the organ. Mr Joseph Refalo led the congregation by animating Mass.
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