Saint Joseph Society HistoryThe St. Joseph Society in the North End originated in 1925 by Italian immigrants and descendents from the Riesi area of Caltanessetta, Sicily. The adoption of St. Joseph as Patron of Riesi was in the rich tradition of devotion to a specific saint, characteristic of regions in Italy. The descendents of the founders of the society carry on this tradition in a North End society, which is very different from the North End of 1925. In the midst of change, dramatic in nature, the St. Joseph Society, as do other religious societies in the North End, knows instinctively and inherently the importance of maintaining traditions and customs. With a sense of commitment to the past and continuity for the future, the customs of family and place will endure. The founders of the Society were grateful for the blessings in their lives and the one means of expressing such gratitude was through the St. Joseph feast day gathering of family and friends on March 19 th. A bountiful table with bread and food was established and the community was invited to participate. Traditional prayers and a young male representing St. Joseph giving the St. Joseph Prayer are important components of this traditional, nearly forgotten gathering. St. Joseph’s Feast which begins the annual North End festivals takes place the last weekend in July. The St. Joseph statue permanently resides in the St. Joseph Chapel on Charter Street and has been lovingly restored. This statue is carried through the streets of the North End on a familiar route. Until recently, on some small secondary streets, elderly Italian men and women could still be seen looking out third or fourth floor windows to greet the marchers and throw down a dollar bill. The Society annually donates to an orphanage in Riesi, and contributes to local, national and international charitable causes. Many of the restaurants new to the community in the last generation and many of the young professionals moving into the area are supportive of St. Joseph’s and other North End societies. The importance of a rich, cultural heritage brings a sense of uniqueness viability and longevity to the community. The St. Joseph Society enthusiastically looks forward to celebrating its 83 rd anniversary!
2008 Club Officers
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