Our Pastor, Fr. Rafał Dadello, is continuing the tradition of blessing homes during the period between Christmas and The Presentation of the Lord Feast, February 2nd which is the Polish feast day Matki Boskiej Gromnicznej (Our Lady of the Thunder Candle).
The visits by the priests to bless the homes of the faithful are known as Kolęda. This word is derived from a similar Polish word which refers to Christmas carols and hymns. The carolers wound their way through the towns and villages, sharing the beautiful hymns to share the message of peace, love and salvation that was brought to the world by the baby of Bethlehem. In America, Christmas decorations often appear before Thanksgiving and they are gone shortly after New Year’s Day. The Polish tradition is to decorate at the end of Advent and to enjoy the beauty of the decorations into February. Thus the true meaning of Christmas is carried well into the new year.
Anyone is welcome to contact Fr. Dadello at (315) 823-0793 to schedule a Kolęda visit and home or apartment blessing.
