Valenzanesi in Chicago celebrated St. Rocco, the patron saint of their native town, with a holy mass and a traditional procession at the Divine Savior Church, Norridge, on August 1, 1999.

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2. Photographs

Father Valentino Saoncella, of the Comboni Missionaries in La Grange (Illinois), celebrated a holy mass at the Divine Savior Church, 7749 Montrose Ave, Norridge (Illinois), in honor of St. Rocco, patron saint of Valenzano, at 3:30 PM on Sunday, August 1, 1999. The celebration moved outdoor at the end of the mass; about 250 participants lined up for a traditional procession around town. The celebration saw the participation of many Valenzanesi transplanted in the Chicagoland and was also attended by other Pugliesi and Italian-Americans. The Saint, at the end of the procession, was escorted by members of the "St. Rocco Congregation ", in traditional costumes, and was followed by the Sicilian Band that filled the air with festive tunes, including national anthems.

The procession started in front of the church and ended at the same place after winding through city streets adjacent to the church. An informal reception was held in the church hall at the end of the procession. People had a chance to rest and exchange news and tidbits with friends and new acquaintances. Peanuts, lupini, focaccia, pastries, and soda were served to all attendees while the band played.

The celebration was organized by the ASRV, the Association of San Rocco of Valenzano in the Chicago area, headed by Frank De Frenza.

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