Summary
A saint invoked against plague, especially important in Sutivan’s votive tradition. The church on the hill, the procession and a religious confraternity connect his name with the memory of epidemics and community life.
The votive procession in Sutivan connects the Church of St Roch with the parish Church of the Assumption of Mary.
A pilgrim saint
Roch’s life is told through hagiographic tradition about a pilgrim who helped people suffering from plague. In depictions, he is recognized by his staff, a wound on his leg and a dog with bread. Sources do not fully agree on the details and dates of his life.
Sources: [1]
Sutivan’s vow
In Sutivan, Roch is a patron of the town. His church on the hill and the annual procession are connected with a vow made during epidemics. Diocesan reports describe the statue’s procession from the Church of St Roch to the parish Church of the Assumption of Mary and the role of the religious confraternity in the custom.
Sources: [2]
The confraternity and the custom of firing cannons
The feast is associated with carrying the statue, a votive procession and the firing of cannons. These customs have their own history of change and renewal. The saint is present as a protector in the community’s devotion; an account of the custom is not a medical explanation for the end of plague.
Sources: [2]
