In a cultural experience that transcended classroom boundaries, Prof. Del Guercio's Italian 1 students embarked on a captivating journey to Newark's First Ward. Their destinations: the Museum of the Old First Ward and the National Shrine of St. Gerard, a revered site that holds significant importance in Italian-American heritage. The occasion was the St. Gerard Festival, a celebration that unites the community in joyous festivities.

The day commenced with biscotti (cookies) from a local bakery and some background information on St. Gerard. 

Next stop: a visit to the Old Italian-American Museum in St. Lucy's Community Center, where relics and artifacts told stories of generations past. Stepping into the museum felt like stepping back in time, connecting the students with the struggles and triumphs of Italian immigrants who helped shape the cultural landscape of Newark. Museum curator Bob Cascella showed our boys everything from old pictures of notable 1st Ward denizens like Frank Sinatra and Joe DiMaggio to a beautiful presepe (nativity scene).

The class then gathered at St. Lucy's church, the awe-inspiring National Shrine of St. Gerard, a place of worship and reverence. Here, they participated in a heartfelt Mass, surrounded by the sacred aura of the shrine. 

Following the solemnity of the Mass, the students ventured outside to immerse themselves in the St. Gerard Festival. Of course, the major highlight of this part of the trip has to be all of the food vendors gathered for the festival. From Southern Italian delicacies like zeppoli and cannoli to sausage and peppers and chicken cutlets, there was certainly plenty to feed our hungry men!

This trip happens every year and is one of the highlights of the Italian program. This year, our group represented Delbarton well with their curiosity and respectful interest in the wealth of culture available in our backyard of Newark. Bravo!!