March 21, 2012 - Rome

We had a lovely day today in Rome. The weather was clear and sunny, with spring-like temperatures. And we saw and did lots of wonderful things!


We had a free morning, so we had a leisurely breakfast at the hotel and then headed for St. Peter's square, which is just a few blocks away. We enjoyed looking around the square. I remembered from a previous trip that there was a great Vatican City bookstore and gift shop just outside of St. Peter's, so we spent some time in there. I bought a bible and cathechism for myself. What a great place to get them from. And Kathleen and I found some other things there that we were tickled with.


After a long shopping excursion, we bought some sandwiches from a nearby food vendor, and some gelato, and sat on some steps in the shade in St. Peter's Square, to eat our lunch. We had a great view of St. Peter's, and it was a nice spot to relax.


We met back with our group and local tour guides (Francesca and Monica) for a combination afternoon walking tour and bus tour around the Roman Forum, Maritime Prison (where St Peter and St. Paul were held before they were killed), Colosseum, and nearby areas. Kathleen and I had been to some of these areas before, but not all, and I didn't mind some repeats when it comes to ancient Rome. This is an area I have very much enjoyed visiting. My 3rd time, Kathleen's 2nd time. But I have to admit that it is tiring and hard on the old feet to tromp around on the stones all afternoon!


At 5:00 pm, we had mass at San Onofrio (St. Humphey's). There was a beautiful fresco behind the altar. There is also a convent here. The outside looks sort of run down, but there is some stunning art inside!


After a lovely Italian dinner of bruschetta, pasta and veal, we are stuffed and pretty worn out! Tomorrow we meet at 7:15 am, then Father Parham gets to hold a special mass at St. Peter's at 8:00 am! I think it is going to be in the grottoes - not sure - stay tuned - should be very special. And then we are going to tour the Vatican museum afterward. Tomorrow is essentially the last day of our trip, as Friday we travel back. Should be a long and fun-filled day, as we start at 7:15 am and are scheduled to finish the day at 9:30 pm.