Yesterday was a big day in town. 8 children received their First Holy Communion and most of the town was involved. The parents of the children had even gotten together to choose the gowns that the children would wear. Therefore, all the children were dressed the same – the girls in the same style gown and the boys in the same style tunic, which made the ceremony even more captivating.
There was the traditional mass, of course, then a procession through town with the priests and the children leading. The children carried baskets of cut flowers – yellow and pink – which they threw down on the street. After winding our way through town, we returned to church for the final blessing, after which we headed down to the hotel for a party. Most of the children were celebrating in the same place, which made it more enjoyable since it was as if you were taking part in all of the children’s celebrations. Of course, everyone knows everyone too, so the parties mixed quite a bit.
We’re not talking a small party either. This is a big deal with lots of food, music, etc., almost like a wedding in scope. And the party, which started around 2, lasted well into the evening. In fact, it was still going on when we left.
One of the nicest things was how the whole town seemed to participate, even those who weren’t involved with any of the children. Flowers were placed along the sides of the streets where the procession would take place and those along the route hung decorative throws from their balconies to help create the scene. All in all, it was a beautiful day and a memory that I’m sure the children will cherish.
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Hello, I just stumbled across your website as I was trying to search for expats in Abruzzo area. I am from Chicago and now live in Pineto (TE) about 25 km from Pescara and have been living here for almost 6 yrs. My husband is from Pineto and now we have 2 children (18 month old and a 4 and a half). I was actually trying to network and search for expat families with children so I can expose other english speaking children around mine. I’t nice to fins other english speaking people that are also in Abruzzo. I know it’s seems like an area that is off teh beaten path so very few american tourists pass through. I work at a hotel so I occasionally come across some americans but you are right they are mostly of Italian decent and have family members here. iI’ve enjoyed coming across your site.
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Welcome Julie! I get up around Pineto every once in a while to visit relatives in Teramo. Abruzzo is definitely off the beaten path for Americans. It’s unfortunate too because there so much to be seen here. If you’re looking for expats, check out Expats in Italy (there’s a link in the sidebar). There are a few Americans and English floating around this area, but they’re hard to find.
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