Celebration of the Patronal Feast of St. Mary of Campiglione in Caivano, Naples

May is a special month for all of us believers. The reason is very clear: because during this month we are invited to pay special homage to the Blessed Virgin Mary. In Caivano, one of the sites served by the Carmelites of the Neapolitan Province, this homage is made even more special by the celebration of the feast of the patron saint, Maria Santissima di Campiglione. This year the solemn celebrations began on May 9. Dominic Praveen Lawrence, O. Carm., prior and rector of the Shrine of Maria Santissima di Campiglione, together with the community of the Carmelites, the members of the Third Order, and all the faithful, kicked off the celebrations with the coronation of Maria Santissima di Campiglione.

In the following days, particularly from May 10 to 14, solemn Masses were celebrated, presided over by Bishop Angelo Lucio Renna, O. Carm., Bishop Emeritus of San Severo; Bishop Angelo Spinillo, Bishop of the Diocese of Aversa; Cardinal Crescenzio Sepe, Archbishop Emeritus of Naples; and Cardinal George Jacob Koovakad, Prefect of the Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue.

One of the most memorable religious events during the days of solemn celebrations is the procession with the statue of Our Lady of Campiglione. As the procession made its way through the city streets, all the faithful joined in solemn prayer and joyful songs of praise. Shortly before the procession returned to the sanctuary, the mayor of Caivano, Dr. Antonio Angelino, presented “the key” to the city into the hands of Mary Most Holy of Campiglione.

This symbolized the entrusting of the city’s protection to her maternal love. Furthermore, there were other events that enlivened the patronal feast, including: pilgrimages from other parishes, traveling marching bands, musical concerts, a cabaret show, and fireworks. All the events were well-organized, beautiful, and engaging thanks to the great collaboration of many.

Our Lady of Campiglione is the mother of all the people of Caivano, and even today, she continues to work many miracles for all her children. Ave Mary!