Posted February 11, 2020

Father Joseph Kelley, pastor of South Philadelphia’s largest parish, which is celebrating its 125th year, was the celebrant of the vigil Mass Saturday, Feb. 8 in which he blessed married couples and those engaged to be married — read all about it here. (Photos by Sarah Webb)

  • Gina and John Amenta, married 60 years, pray together during the Saturday evening vigil Mass Feb. 8, observing St. Valentine’s Day, at St. Monica Church in South Philadelphia.

  • Engaged couple Aaron Slaweski and Olivia Moretti listen to the homily during the Mass observing St. Valentine’s Day Feb. 8 at St. Monica Church, Philadelphia. (Sarah Webb)

  • Judge Louis and Emily Presensza, married 50 years, bring up the offertory gifts.

  • Lou and Lucy Belcastro (left) hold hands along with their son-in-law and daughter, Victor and Linda Baldi, as they pray during Mass Feb. 8 at St. Monica Church, South Philadelphia. (Photo by Sarah Webb)

  • Altar servers assist in the ornate sanctuary of St. Monica Church.

  • Linda Febbo, center, prays during Mass.

  • Father Joseph Kelley, pastor, distributes holy Communion.

  • Mary and Frank Amabile pray during Mass. (Sarah Webb)

  • Michael Fee distributes holy Communion.

  • Justin Mattocks and his aunt Maryann DiGregorio light a candle and say a prayer.

  • Joseph and Joan Sole, married 50 years, offer flowers before the Blessed Mother.

  • Sister Regina Matulka, I.H.M., principal of St. Monica School, greets Natalie Graziano and Vincenzo Criniti during the reception after Mass. Natalie and Vincenzo will be married on St. Valentine’s Day, Friday evening, Feb. 14, at St. Monica Church.