Gloomy Skies, Bright Spirits: Mount Carmel Society Marks 117 Years in Berkeley Heights

Despite haze from Canadian wildfires that had prompted a Code Red air quality alert across New Jersey that week, the Berkeley Heights Mount Carmel Society held its annual July 16th procession. The celebration marked the Society's 117th year since its founding in 1909.

Each July 16th commemorates the feast date of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, the Society's patron saint. The day's celebration includes a procession, Mass, and festival—traditions that have connected Berkeley Heights residents and their families for more than a century, according to Union County Life's coverage of Berkeley Heights community events.

The three-hour procession started at 8 a.m. directly across from The Church of the Little Flower and concluded at the church, where Mass was celebrated at 11:30 a.m. by Pastor JC Merino. Leading the procession were members of the Delia Family, descendants of the Italian families who first brought this devotion to Berkeley Heights generations ago.

Behind them followed a tractor bearing the statue of the Virgin Mary, adorned in flowers and ribbons. As the statue made its way through town, members pinned donations to the ribbons in her honor. An Italian band played traditional music throughout the procession, filling the streets with songs that connected the community to its heritage.

The Mount Carmel Society is a non-profit, philanthropic organization that strengthens community ties and helps local groups. It is entirely self-funded and pays for all expenses associated with the procession. Many members now fill roles once held by their grandfathers and fathers, with some great-grandfather members among the group—a multi-generational commitment to tradition.

"This is all about the community," said Mike Morelli, a vice-president. "Our Lady of Mount Carmel Society has been here a long time. Members need to work hard year-round and especially to set up today."

Mike D'Aquila, the Society's treasurer, echoed that sentiment: "Today is about giving back to the community. We like to think that we are an integral part of the Berkeley Heights community. This is about community. We want to honor our patron saint and bring the community together."

This year marked a significant milestone. The group moved their festival back to their River Road home after it had been displaced by county construction of a park. The festival includes games, festival food, and a fireworks display planned and executed by the Santore brothers and Garden State Fireworks.

For more Berkeley Heights community news and events, Union County Life covers local traditions and civic celebrations.

FAQ

Q: What is the Berkeley Heights Mount Carmel Society?
A: The Mount Carmel Society is a non-profit, philanthropic organization founded in 1909. It strengthens community ties, helps local groups, and preserves the tradition of honoring Our Lady of Mount Carmel, its patron saint.

Q: When does the Society celebrate?
A: The Society holds its annual procession and festival on July 16, the feast day of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. This year marked the 117th celebration.

Q: What happens during the July 16th celebration?
A: The day includes a three-hour procession (8 a.m. start), a Mass (11:30 a.m.), and a community festival with games, food, and fireworks. The procession features a statue of the Virgin Mary adorned with flowers and ribbons.

Q: Who leads the procession?
A: The procession is led by members of the Delia Family, descendants of the Italian families who first brought this devotion to Berkeley Heights generations ago. An Italian band plays traditional music throughout.

Q: How does the Society fund its activities?
A: The Mount Carmel Society is entirely self-funded. All members work year-round and contribute to ensure the procession and festival happen annually.

Q: Is the festival open to the community?
A: Yes. The celebration is a community-wide event that brings neighbors together to honor Our Lady of Mount Carmel and strengthen community bonds.

Q: Where is the festival held?
A: This year, the festival returned to the Society's River Road home after being displaced by county park construction.

Q: Where can I find more Berkeley Heights events?
A: Union County Life covers Berkeley Heights community news and events. Subscribe to the Berkeley Heights newsletter or visit unioncountylife.com for ongoing coverage.