Great success of “La Sagra dell’Agnello” organized by the Abruzzesi e Molisani di California

Last Sunday, June 6, 2010, approximately 150 members and friends of the Abruzzesi e Molisani di California held their annual “Sagra dell’Agnello” at Villa Scalabrini in Sun Valley, California. This event, also known as the “Festival of the Paschal Lamb”, is an old Italian tradition that takes place every year during the Easter season, or Holy week, in certain Italian cities, particularly in the island of Sicily where traditions have a special meaning.

Such a festival is a combination of cultural and religious celebrations that attract tourists and visitors from the farthest countries. The event joins past and present, culture and religion. For several years the Abruzzesi e Molisani Club has perpetuated this old Italian tradition that seems to make everybody very proud of their heritage. This year “La Sagra dell’Agnello” had a special meaning: a few days earlier the Abruzzesi e Molisani had learned that Father Luigi, the director of Villa Scalabrini, was celebrating his 39th anniversary of Priesthood on the very same day of their annual “Sagra dell’Agnello”.

It was not a coincidence that Father was there: he wanted to be there because his love for people is so evident and he enjoys being surrounded by friends, fellow human beings, and folks in general: he is truly a shepherd of God. A large cake with special decorations was ordered for the occasion. The Abruzzesi e Molisani are quite honored that Fr. Luigi con- siders them his new family in California; they are proud to be his children.

The Abruzzesi e Molisani think very highly of Father Luigi and were delighted to express their sincere congratulations for his 39th anniver- sary, truly a remarkable goal. Bravissimo, Padre Luigi, may the Good Lord always protect and inspire you and continue to shower you with His blessings. We know that He is very pleased with the time you have devoted and dedicated to His cause.

The Abruzzesi e Molisani are extremely proud of you. Special thanks to the various members for the hard work and the time they spent in organizing the event, in taking care of the administration, including paying the bills, in cooking the lamb, in buying and preparing all the food, in serving the drinks, in making sure that everybody was comfortable and happy, in keeping the bocce course clean, in taking care of all the work in the kitchen, in straightening tables, etc.

Truly there is no other club like the Abruzzesi e Molisani: the camaraderie, the conviviality and the fellowship are impres- sive and outstanding. As everybody said: “It was a real pleasure being there”.