Crowded Frassino Sanctuary Experience as Mass Expectations Prevail

The evening Mass on a Sunday in August at the sanctuary of Frassino, crowded as usual with pilgrims; the ritual sign of the cross and the brief introductory reflection from the confessional chapel, the hustle and bustle of the faithful crossing the church, even passing in front of the altar. The sudden groan of one of the young children present, and the celebrant reminds everyone that the sanctuary is a place of prayer and that during the celebration of the Mass, coming and going is not permitted. He advises parents not to bring children under six months old into the church. The words cause surprise and a “noisy” reaction, a collective murmur that ends with some couples and their children leaving the church.