Castelpetroso to celebrate Solemnity of Mary Most Sorrowful

The Basilica dell’Addolorata in Castelpetroso will celebrate the Solemnity of Mary Most Sorrowful, the Patron Saint of Molise, on Tuesday, September 15, 2026. Often referred to as the ‘Little Lourdes of Italy,’ the sanctuary will host several liturgical celebrations, including Masses at 10:30, 12:00, and 17:00.

The solemn Mass at 12:00 will be presided over by Archbishop Biagio Colaianni of Campobasso-Bojano. While the universal Church observes September 15 as a memorial, the event holds the rank of a Solemnity at the sanctuary as it honors its titular patron.

The festivities honor a history rooted in 1888, following reported apparitions to local farmers Fabiana Cicchino and Serafina Valentino. This devotion led to the laying of the Basilica’s first stone on September 28, 1890, under the direction of Bishop Francesco Macarone Palmieri.