The flight was mercifully uneventful. I was, however, able to buy some outward bound marines a drink on the plane.
A shot from the cab on the way into town while we were stuck at a light.
Having checked in at the place we are staying (I will be helping with a pilgrimage) I sought breakfast at Sant’Eustachio while a room was being readied.
I met with a my thesis director for lunch and then made my way to the Chiesa Nuova for Mass. The sacristan there was rather like the usual sacristan in Rome during the 90’s: not too helpful, invasive with the edge of hostile.
Aside from the hideous vestment (they used to put out better), I said Mass for you who are benefactors at the altar where the body of St. Philip Neri is to be venerated. He is a great patron of mine.
What was interesting, however, is that afterward there were three young priests lined up to say Mass… to concelebrate in the old fashioned way: to say the older form of Mass and serve for each other. Three young guys, all saying the older form. They had the travel altar cards I advertise on the sidebar! They all read the blog and were happy to meet me. Fun and encouraging. Here is one of them in action. I am not sure why the purple, given the presence of St. Philip and that it was 7 October.
After Mass we had a stroll and wound up at P.za Navona. I had a Crodino (non-alcoholic – because of my jet lag).
For supper we sought a tiny restaurant I have frequented for years. It is in the street that runs alongside Sant’Agostino in the Via die Pianellari: Da Pietro Valentini. They do a lot of things with truffles. My friend, the great Roman Fabrizio was able to join us.
Cacio e pepe con tartufo nero.
Afterwards we retired to the hotel terrace for a cigar and more talk.
So, we are off to the races. I had a connectivity problem yesterday (hey! It’s Rome! If I am here, there have to be connectivity problems), but today I think it is sorted out.
I would be grateful for prayers for good weather and good health, and for the safety and fruitful experiences of those who will join the pilgrimage this evening as it officially begins.
I should be able to say Mass for benefactors (people who donate and send stuff from my wish lists) in Rome again, perhaps Wednesday, 9 October.
Click the Vatican flag below to send a donation earmarked for Rome. Include a note, if your wish.
Loading ...
I would be grateful for prayers for good weather
When you offer Mass, do you add the Collect for Good Weather? It’s pretty effective.
Prayers for good weather and good health. And thinks for the information about Da Pietro Valentin.
Prayers for good weather and good health, and for your pilgrimage and directees. I also pray for a private intention for you, based on something you mentioned above.
I envy you, Father, for being in Rome! If I could, I’d be there every year. :)
Well this morning all 20 priests celebrating Mass at the Basilica of San Francesco in Assisi wore purple. During the homily the priest referred to the Battle of Lepanto.
Could you use purple if it were said as a memorial for one who has died, perhaps the 30th day after death or some such? or for some cause of reparation or penance?
I know there are some few who think purple is sort of the new black for funerals…
Someone I know, either a priest or seminarian, but I can’t remember who, has a print of that painting on their wall. I think I saw it used as an ordination holy card once as well.
Hope all goes well in Rome.
Fr Z. if there is a chance you get to Visit with Pope Benedict…..please relay to him how much we miss him and LOVE him…..He was one OUTSTANDING POPE!
VIVA SANTITA!
The dog on the plane and your putting “Day 1” in the title of this post remind me of this:
http://i39.tinypic.com/2u5cork.jpg
So happy for you on a pilgrimage, with your peers, enjoying Rome. I don’t wish to be indelicate, but I seem to recall you experiencing a sick tummy on one of your jaunts. Just a reminder…
for acidy stomach? – Tums, Mylanta, Maalox.
for upset stomach? (nausea) Pepto Bismol.
for problems of a more…problematic nature…Imodium.
Keep these with you. One never knows and a pilgrimage is no time to…well…you get the idea.
May God be close to you and keep you safe, our Fr. Z.