Settling into life in Rome

Yesterday was orientation day for us....we started with Mass at St. Peter's Basilica by the tomb of St. Peter in the crypts below the main altar. Then we spent the rest of the day getting to know the Pontifical North American College facilities. Today we began our day with the Wednesday Papal Audience in the Paul Vi Audience Hall. This afternoon we begin a four day in house "retreat". I will be praying for the people of Holy Redeemer Parish, my family, and my friends during the coming days.

The First Day

All of the priests have now arrived and we have officially begun our sabbatical in Rome. Today is the Feast of St. Thomas Aquinas.....through his intercession may all of us on this sabbatical increase our zeal for holiness and our knowledge of the Church's doctrine which guides our faith. Goodnight/Bounanotte from Rome!

I am finally here!

I arrived in Rome yesterday around noon on a very sunny Sunday afternoon. I spent the rest of the day settling into my room, but jet lag and the lack of sleep caught up with me. I was in bed at 8 PM. Today I was up bright and early, but until just a few minutes ago it was raining heavily, so I took the time to catch up on a few things. We begin officially this evening. Until then...weather permitting...I will get out for some exploration in the neighborhood. I have attached a picture of St. Peter's Basilica taken from the balcony of my room.

Leavin' on a jet plane

I fly to Rome tonight and will arrive somewhere around noon. After all the anticipation it is finally here. I got back to New Jersey from Aruba late last night. After some laundry and reps king I am ready to go. The days in Aruba were just what I needed to let go of my daily "grind" in order to be ready mentally, physically, and spiritually for my time in the Eternal City. Ciao for now!

R & R

The first part of my sabbatical has begun...some R & R in sunny beautiful Aruba before I head to Rome for the educational part of my sabbatical. I know it is nice in Michigan today, but 85 degrees and this blue ocean are hard to beat!

Tomorrow...tomorrow ...

I leave GR tomorrow morning. Only a few hours until my sabbatical begins. After all the planning and waiting it will be here soon. I am very excited to begin my adventure! I want to say "thank you" to everyone who has wished me safe and fun travels. I will be back soon with stories and memories to share.

One Week. . .

One week from today I will be leaving on my sabbatical adventure.  The packing, banking, saying "arrivederci" to family and friends, etc. has kicked into high gear.  I would like to say that I am ready to depart, but I have a lot of unfinished business, personal and professional, to clear off my desks before I can go.  I am sure that most of it will get done and then the rest will just have to sort itself out. :)