For one hour, the block around St. Brendan Church in Norwood goes car-free as the Bronx's Filipino Catholics process for Lorenzo Ruiz, the Manila layman martyred in Japan in 1637, and Pedro Calungsod, the teen catechist martyred in Guam. St. Brendan's Filipino community has kept this devotion since the 1990s. If you want to see a living immigrant tradition in a Bronx corner few New Yorkers visit, go.
What to expect
Expect a devotional procession that loops the streets around St. Brendan Church, with images of the two saints and parishioners walking together. It's a religious observance first, so the tone is prayerful rather than a street fair. Onlookers can watch respectfully from the sidewalk along Perry Avenue and East 206th and 207th Streets.
Good to know
- The D train's Norwood–205 St station, at Bainbridge Avenue, is just steps from the route.
- Perry Avenue, Bainbridge Avenue and East 206th–207th Streets close to traffic during the procession, so don't plan to drive or park on them.
- This is a religious observance: dress modestly and keep photos discreet during prayers.
- Watching is free, and no registration is needed.
- Arrive a few minutes early to catch the procession leaving the church.
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Common questions
Who are Saints Lorenzo Ruiz and Pedro Calungsod?
They are the Philippines' two canonized saints. Lorenzo Ruiz was a Manila layman martyred in Nagasaki in 1637, and Pedro Calungsod was a Visayan teenage catechist martyred in Guam in 1672. Filipino Catholic communities often honor them toge
Do I have to be Catholic or Filipino to attend?
No. It's a public street procession, and respectful onlookers are welcome. Just remember it's a religious event rather than a festival.
Where exactly does it happen?
It loops Perry Avenue, East 207th Street, Bainbridge Avenue and East 206th Street around St. Brendan Church (333 East 206th Street) in Norwood, the Bronx.