Feast of Saint Gabriel of Our Lady of Sorrows

One of the most attended religious festivals in Abruzzo

The Feast of Saint Gabriel of Our Lady of Sorrows is celebrated every February 27th at the grand Sanctuary of Saint Gabriel, in the municipality of Isola del Gran Sasso d'Italia, in the province of Teramo, at the foot of the Teramo side of the Gran Sasso. It marks the liturgical anniversary of the Passionist saint who died in this convent in 1862 at the age of 24 and was later proclaimed patron saint of Abruzzo. On the day of the feast, the sanctuary becomes one of the most popular pilgrimage destinations in the region, drawing thousands of faithful from all over Italy and various countries around the world.

The young saint of the Passionists

Francesco Possenti, known in religious life as Gabriel of Our Lady of Sorrows, joined the Passionists and spent the final years of his short life in the convent of Isola del Gran Sasso. His figure is particularly dear to young people: in 1926, he was proclaimed co-patron of Italian Catholic youth, which is why he is known as the "saint of youth." Over time, a large sanctuary complex has grown around his tomb, featuring both the ancient basilica and a modern church capable of accommodating large crowds of pilgrims.

The day of February 27th

The feast follows a long-standing tradition. At dawn, the sanctuary's great bell tolls 24 times, one for each year of the saint's life, followed by the celebration of the transitus of Saint Gabriel. Throughout the day, masses are held, presided over by bishops, Passionist superiors, and priests, including a solemn mass in the late morning and services specifically dedicated to young people. The day also features live broadcasts with Radio Maria and bell concerts that mark the moments of prayer.

Pilgrimages and popular devotion

The festival attracts organized pilgrimages from numerous towns in Abruzzo and beyond the region. The sanctuary is a destination for groups who travel from afar to fulfill vows and thank the saint for graces received, a testament to the deep popular devotion surrounding Saint Gabriel. The liturgical celebration is also accompanied by cultural initiatives, concerts, and events involving the communities of the Valle Siciliana and the entire province of Teramo.

A defining event for Abruzzo

More than just a local event, the Feast of Saint Gabriel is a defining moment for Abruzzo: it unites faith, tradition, and a sense of belonging to a territory marked by the imposing presence of the Gran Sasso. For visitors, it is also an opportunity to discover Isola del Gran Sasso d'Italia, its charming villages, and the landscape of the Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga National Park.