Have been working on a project involving a statue in a church in Teramo and its relationship to a statue in a church in Penns Grove, NJ.

The provincial capital, Teramo, is located about six miles from Valle San Giovanni. One of the churches there is the Chiesa di Maria Santissima dell'Annunziata more commonly referred to as Santuario Madonna delle Grazie (Mother of Grace Sanctuary). It dates back to the 12th century. On the main altar of the church is a 15th century life size, polychromatic wooden statue of the seated Madonna and Child. It serves as the destination for many pilgrims who left offerings (ex voto) at Mary's feet. On the 2 July Teramo hosts an annual celebration in honor of the Mother of Grace, its protectorate. A replica of the statue was constructed in Italy in the mid 1920's and shipped to the Saint James Roman Catholic Church in Penns Grove where it remains till this day. Also on 2 July, a celebration similar to the one in Teramo is held each year in Penns Grove. The first took place in 1925. During these celebrations a procession was held in which enthusiastic parishioners bid on the privilege of carrying the statue through the streets of the town.

http://vallesangiovanni.com/pennsgrove.aspx








Saint James Church

Penns Grove, NJ