What is the confraternity of this church?
koh-ZEH la kon-fra-tehr-NEE-tah dee KWES-tah KYE-zah.
When you see references to a confraternity or notice unusual symbols or habits in a church. Confraternities are lay religious brotherhoods with ancient traditions in Italian Catholic life.
Una confraternita is a confraternity — a lay religious brotherhood devoted to a saint, a charitable purpose, or a particular form of devotion. Italian confraternities have existed since the Middle Ages and still organise processions and charitable works today.
Le confraternite fanno ancora le processioni?
Do the confraternities still hold processions?
Many ancient processions are still carried out.
Qual è il patron della confraternita?
Who is the confraternity's patron?
Asking about the saint they are devoted to.
I camici bianchi nella processione chi sono?
Who are the people in white robes in the procession?
Asking to identify confraternity members in traditional dress.
Italian confraternities (confraternite or sodalizi) have been pillars of local community life since the twelfth century. During Holy Week, confraternities in cities like Taranto, Procida, and Sorrento organise elaborately choreographed processions that have continued without interruption for centuries. Members carry their deceased members to burial and still provide charitable assistance.