The Fire of the Immaculate Conception in Stilo

Do you ever feel that Christmas celebrations are more about gifts and food rather than the true meaning of the celebrations? Would you like to rediscover an ancient, profound ritual that brings you back in touch with the most authentic soul of this season? You might take a trip to Stilo, Calabria. On the morning of December 8, the feast of the Immaculate Conception, a very heartfelt, and very special ceremony takes place: the Bonfire of the Immaculate Conception. The sun has not yet risen when the community gathers, at 5 a.m., to celebrate Mass in the church of San Giovanni Theresis. A large pile of branches and twigs is already piled on the square, waiting in silence. The mass is actually the last in a series of 10 masses, which began on Nov. 28, with the exposition of the statue of the Virgin. At the end of the celebration, we move outside where the bonfire is lit, accompanied by the music of the band and the sun slowly making its appearance. It is an experience that digs deep and, let's face it, requires the sacrifice of getting up very very early, but it can bring you in touch with your soul and with nature, which slowly wakes up on the day of the Virgin.