By Vancie Todaro

THE HISTORY OF THE FAVA BEAN USED IN ST. JOSEPH ALTARS

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Fava beans, also known as “lucky beans,” are a traditional decoration for St. Joseph altars and are considered a good luck charm.  They are a reminder of God’s provisions through

St. Joseph’s intercession and are associated with him because they are said to have saved

Sicilians from starvation during a drought during the Middle Ages.  According to legend, farmers used the beans as cattle fodder during the famine, but they eventually prepared them for their own tables and considered themselves lucky to have them.

Fava bean also symbolizes fertility because they grow well in poor, rocky soil. The Italians would carry a bean from a good crop to ensure a good crop the following year.

We Poggiorealesi know that this type of bean plays a large role in the tradition of the

St. Joseph Altar (Table). They may appear in a frittata, cooked in delicious garlic sauce, or in a variety of recipes including soups.

The fava bean comes in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors.  You will find them in brown, light tan, green, and even purple.  The favas that are usually used at the St. Joseph Altars are dark brown or beige.  Traditionally they are about the size of a quarter; when shopping for them and they are referred to as “heirloom.”  The natural color of the beans is a light green when removed from the pod.  When dried, roasted and blessed, they become the very popular “Lucky

Bean.” How many of you carry one in your purse? Perhaps your mother, friend, or relative gave it to you or when you visited a St. Joseph Altar, you were given one. Legend has it that you will never be broke as long as you carry one with you. Some believe that if you keep one in your pantry, there will always be food in your kitchen.

When you visit a St. Joseph Altar, anytime or anywhere, be sure to take a dried fava bean and place it in your Purse or your pocket. It just might bring you good luck. It always will be sure to bring a smile to your face as you remember your beautiful Sicilian Heritage and our ancestors.

ON ST. JOSEPH DAY, THERE ARE NO STRANGERS, ONLY FAMILY AND FRIENDS THAT WE HAVE NOT YET MET.

ANOTHER AGE-OLD EXPRESSION THAT IS FREQUENTLY USED, “MAY ST. JOSEPH ALWAYS SMILE UPON YOU.”

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