Rain clouds gathered over the church making us question if the procession would be possible. An umbrella was tucked away in my purse but I was hoping I wouldn't have to use it. This was my first procession.
The procession would start once the painting was loaded up and driven to the starting point. The march's starting point was down the road because otherwise it would have been too far to walk. The walk was among and up hills.
The sun came out and the rain clouds cleared once the painting left the church.
The procession was equip with a band that played upbeat songs reminding me of one from The Godfather. Check this out: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yRxK-3buon0
Old and young together played.
The procession was led by the painting, followed by the priests who said prayers in between the band's songs. The faithful followed behind.
Carried by four men, the painting made its way to the new church escorted by Carabinieri.
About 300 people walked in the procession. They murmured prayers led by the priest as we climbed the hill to Chiesa di San Nicola.
A steady but slow pilgrimage to the top. Wearing sandals, my feet began to hurt on the gravel road but I did not complain because women all around me wore heels.
Our destination. When we arrived, mass was performed outside. After this hour long mass, meat sandwiches were passed out and a choice between water, wine or soda was to be made.
The bells rang as if to encourage and welcome our climb to the top.
The hills and country side below. The smell of incense surrounded us as we marched one mile.
Miles and miles of hills, trees, farm land, sunflowers and wild flowers set the scene.
Band and angels.
The angels at the top.
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