The cloudy skies and torrential rains of earlier in the week gave way to a magnificent autumn Sunday morning in New York City, as Crachesi from all over the New York metropolitan area gathered to celebrate Mass together, in honor of our patron saint and protector, San Vincenzo.   St. Joseph's Church, as ornate and beautiful as ever, remains a most appropriate home for our beloved San Vincenzo, who it is believed was brought to America from Craco about one hundred years ago.   On October 28, nearly thirty members of our Crachesi family attended the Mass and joined in a reception afterwards, continuing the bonds made this summer in Albany, as well as re-establishing family connections, some lost for an entire generation!

Afterwards, some embarked upon a walking tour of the lower east side of Manhattan, visiting Baxter and Mulberry Streets, walking on the same streets as many of our ancestors did upon their arrival in America over a century ago.  A wonderful traditional Italian meal was shared before we bade each other farewell, until our next eagerly anticipated meeting.

The Craco Society would like to take this opportunity to thank Stephen LaRocca for his enthusiasm, passion, and devotion for acting as the caretaker of our protector, San Vincenzo, as well as San Rocco.  We pledge our support to him, as he keeps these important traditions treasured by our ancestors alive for us and for future generations.