FESTA SANTA MARIA (1) - BBQ by sangwann

FESTA SANTA MARIA (1) - BBQ

The other day I mentioned that on 15th August, in Malta, there was the feast of Santa Maria, standing for the feast of the Assumption to Heaven of the Virgin Mary.

Ian and Denise, who live in Mosta, one of the parishes celebrating this feast of their patron saint, organised for us a BBQ on their roof where we could also watch some of the fireworks. The bulk of the fireworks are let off on the eve but I managed to captured some interesting shots just the same. This shot shows Ian preparing sausages as a starter – I love them. JP is having a discussion with him on some issue.

For Maltese people, mostly the older generations, this is a very important feast. On this day in 1942, the first ships that managed to arrive in Malta to bring supplies to a battered country arrived and saved the Island from capitulating. The people were starving and their was no more ammunition to defend the Island from Axis forces. The ships were part of a large convoy, code-named Operation Pedestal – many of them did not make it to the Island because of the continuous attacks from the enemy.
The Maltese of that time consider they were saved by the intercession of the Virgin Mary – hence the devotion.
Tomorrow: Jeff and Nick
Thank you very much for looking and for your lovely comments on my previous photos.
Looks like a great meal being prepared. I am in awe of all your historic information and the number of celebrations that occur on such a small island.
August 28th, 2013  
very nice candid photo
August 28th, 2013  
Love this candid. You've controlled the light really well.
August 28th, 2013  
Great capture of them getting ready for the feast. Malta certainly does have a very rich history.
August 28th, 2013  
Thank for the info; such tough harsh times - they must never happen again;
So what do you reckon they are discussing - how long to bbq a sausage? ;0)
August 28th, 2013  
Lovely you are making me hungry. Very interesting story.
August 28th, 2013  
It sounds like a big event for everyone
August 28th, 2013  
i have seen documentaries of that time.
August 28th, 2013  
Cool shot
August 28th, 2013  
Nice shot. I really like hearing the history of your country and I never cease to be amazed at all the festivals and celebrations you have.
August 28th, 2013  
Looks like a lively discussion! Fun candid. Jeff and I were just watching some WWll history on the Military channel that was featuring Malta. The fortitude of the Maltese really impressed us.
August 28th, 2013  
Lovely shot. We watched a programme on TV recently, with reference to the convoy. Malta has always been special, deserved the GC. I had an uncle in the navy, he was often there in the 1930s and then WW2.
August 28th, 2013  
Wonderful candid---enjoy the feast :)
August 28th, 2013  
Cool candid
August 28th, 2013  
Nice candid shot - love the way the light's picking out the details.
Interesting info, thank you.
August 29th, 2013  
Great shot Dione & love the history lesson as always!
August 29th, 2013  
Happy celebration!
August 29th, 2013  
I continue to learn from your posts. This was an excellent candid.
August 29th, 2013  
Looks like a deep and meaningful discussion, what a great way to celebrate a feast day.
August 29th, 2013  
very interesting to learn about your side of the world
August 29th, 2013  
thank you for the information
September 5th, 2013  
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