Parishioners in West Haven Pray to Our Blessed Mother on First Saturdays

Parishioners at St. John Vianney and St. Louis churches in West Haven gather on the first Saturday of every month to observe a devotion to the Blessed Mother.

The monthly practice, which began at these churches four years ago, involves attending Mass followed by praying the Joyful Mysteries of the rosary in both English and Spanish. During a recent gathering on Sept. 5, approximately 80 people participated in the Mass celebrated by Father Israel Rivera. Following the rosary and meditation, Father Rivera blessed children gathered around a statue of Our Lady of Fatima.

Eva Cestari, a Lay Dominican, and Marla Rapini introduced the devotion to the West Haven community. Cestari has practiced the devotion for 15 years as a way to make reparation for sin and godlessness in the world. Father Rivera said his own devotion to the Blessed Mother grew during his priesthood and that he views her as a model of discipleship.