Statue of Maria Bambina in Senglea crowned a century ago
This year, 2021, is a special year for Senglea as it marks the centenary from the solemn coronation of the titular statue of Maria Bambina. This effigy, which was recorded to be in the Senglea parish in 1618, has been a source of devotion ever since. The act of love and devotion, manifested in the first years of the 18th century, when the Sengleans placed a silver crown on the Bambina’s head, anticipated the cherished expectation for the arrival of that day on which the statue would be solemnly crowned by a pontifical decree. On March 1, 1920, Canon Joseph Adami, archpriest of Senglea, on behalf of the Chapter and the people of Senglea, formally presented to archbishop Mauro Caruana, OSB, the supplication to have the statue crowned. The archbishop, for his part, submitted the said request to Pope Benedict XV on March 31, 1920. The positive decision was taken by the Vatican Chapter on April 25, 1920, and the rescript for the coronation was issued. The response, which came from Rome in such a short time, was felt as a sign of appreciation by the Blessed Virgin who wanted to reward the people of Senglea for the love they showed her. The day set for the coronation was September 4,...