Mr. Romano's Day 2 Recap

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Day two was another amazing day. We had a bit of a later start than we planned as jet lag got the better of us. Once breakfast in our houses was complete and the dishes done, we were out the door. All the houses met for coffee. Some tired espresso for the first time and have a new appreciation for how strong coffee can get. Then we were off to Piazza San Pietro.

We spent about an hour exploring the piazza and buying small souvenirs in the surrounding neighborhood for loved ones back home. Then it was back into the piazza for the Angelus, led by Pope Francis. The Holy Father gave a wonderful talk surrounding the meaning of the third Sunday of Advent and then blessed those gathered.

Then it was off to lunch. A favorite spot (that we discovered on our previous pilgrimage) was full, so we settled for another (not quite as good) place down the road. Our afternoon agenda included the Gesú and Mass at San Giovanni de Fiorentini. When we arrived at the Gesú we discovered that it was closed until 4pm, so we did a little roaming in the area with some of the group going to the basilica of San Marco and the rest taking on the monument to Vittorio Emmanuelle II. San Marco is a quiet, hidden gem of a basilica. As a quilter, I found the floors particularly fascinating, giving me hundreds of ideas for new quilt designs.

As we were sharing graces after night prayer, most of the boys mentioned that the Gesú was one of the best experiences for them so far. The opportunity to spend about 90 minutes exploring the Church, praying, and reflecting had a positive impact on us all. We left only because we had to make it for Sunday evening Mass.

After Mass we were able to get dinner at our favorite pizza place and grab gelato on the way to one of the apartments for Night Prayer and the sharing of graces. What a blessing to be on this pilgrimage with these young men and my colleagues. I am looking forward to the graces which each day brings.

Comments

  1. UnknownMarch 11, 2018 at 5:50 PM

    Thank you to you and your colleagues for leading these young men on what must surely be the experience of lifetime for each of them.

    ReplyDelete
  2. UnknownMarch 12, 2018 at 4:52 PM

    Awesome sounds like a fun day!

    ReplyDelete
  3. UnknownMarch 12, 2018 at 6:54 PM

    What a blessing I am sure it was to hear the Pope speak and get Blessing from him ..
    I am in Awwww reading your experiences
    Thanks for keeping up connected

    ReplyDelete

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