Day 11

Happy 4th of July!

This morning was filled with beauty. After Mass at San Carlos right next door to the Domus, we walked through the Vatican Gardens. From the cupalo of St. Peter's, the hilly terrain of the garden is not obvious. It is actually quite a hike, yet the flowers, fountains and artwork are well worth the effort. 

With our spirits filled with natural beauty, we next had a tour of Studio del Mosaico. Their method of creating mosaics is much as it was in the middle ages.The eleven artists here are responsible for the repair of the mosaics at St. Peter's as well as any mosaics that are given as gifts from the Holy Father to visiting dignitaries. They also made the mosaics of the Popes in St. Paul Outside-the-Wall. This artist created the mosaic of Pope Francis.

 

After lunch and a short reposo we journeyed to the Center for Newman Studies for two presentation on Blessed John Cardinal Newman followed by prayer and a meal with the community of Das Werk.  Very seldom is it possible to forget we are in Rome -- ancient architecture, the music of the Italian language and the feel of cobblestones under our feet constantly remind us. There were times today I forgot it is Independence Day since there is a definite lack of red,white and blue. The Sisters provided a wonderful feast to celebrate, complete with little American flags on the toothpicks. Photos will be added from that gathering tomorrow!

God, bless America and Italy and all of your beloved children!