The Gypsy pilgrimage begins May 24-26 every year
in the southern French town of Saintes-Maries de la Mer to celebrate Saint
Sara's annual return to the shores of the Mediterranean. Among Rroma, she
is known as "Sarah-la-Kali," or Sarah the
Black. Roma from all over the world gather here to view the reliquary of
Saint Sara's remains as it is carried in a procession into the waters of
the sea, and perhaps to touch the reliquary which is imbued with miraculous
healing powers.
During this gathering, which begins days prior to the procession to
the sea, Roma celebrate reunions with family and friends with music and
dance. The curious gadje are welcome to participate in dance and
song on this joyous occasion.
For more information on this annual Roma gathering
visit
http://www.beyond.fr/villages/stemariesmer.html
or
read the Patrin article about Saintes-Maries
de la Mer. |