Fall River Police Department Announces Details on The Procession of the Romeiros

The Fall River Police Department has announced its full support and coordination efforts for the Procession of the Romeiros, a deeply rooted Azorean tradition that will take place across the city on Friday, April 18. The event is expected to draw hundreds of participants as pilgrims walk from church to church, engaging in prayer, reflection, and song during this sacred time of Lent. The Romeiros procession is a long-standing religious custom originating from the Azores, Portugal. In Fall River, where there is a large Azorean-American population, the event has grown into a powerful symbol of faith and cultural identity.

Deep-Rooted Tradition with Azorean Origins

The tradition of the Romeiros began in the Azores centuries ago, where islanders turned to prayer and pilgrimage in response to natural disasters like volcanic eruptions and earthquakes. Pilgrims, known as “Romeiros,” would walk in groups across their islands, visiting churches and offering prayers of repentance and hope. Azorean immigrants brought this practice with them to the United States, and today, cities with strong Azorean communities—like Fall River—continue to uphold the tradition. The procession is especially significant on Good Friday, marking one of the holiest days of the Christian calendar. Participants typically wear capes and scarves, carrying rosaries and crosses, as they travel in reverent silence or sing traditional hymns along the way.

Police to Ensure Safe Passage Across City

The Fall River Police Department’s Motor Vehicle Enforcement Unit will play a key role in the procession by ensuring the group’s safety. Officers will be stationed throughout the route to manage traffic, guide the procession through intersections, and escort participants between churches. “The department is committed to maintaining a respectful and secure environment for the Romeiros,” police officials said in a statement. “We ask all drivers and residents to be patient and plan accordingly, as there may be traffic delays throughout the day.” Police are also encouraging the community to show respect and support for the participants during this religious observance.

Schedule of the Procession

The Romeiros will begin their pilgrimage early Friday morning and are expected to visit several churches throughout Fall River before returning to their starting point. Below is the tentative schedule for April 18:

• 7:00 AM – Espirito Santo Church (Start)

• St. Anthony of Padua

• Holy Name Church

• St. Michael’s Church

• St. Joseph’s Church

• Santo Cristo Church

• St. Mary’s Cathedral

• St. Anne’s Church

• Good Shepherd Parish

• Holy Trinity Church

• Return to Espirito Santo Church

Community members are encouraged to attend or observe respectfully and to plan travel routes with the procession’s timing in mind.