Wednesday In Rome

Wednesday - last day in Rome. We got up early and went to Mass at the Church of St Spirito in Sassia (Divine Mercy). This church was frequented by Pope John Paul II. After Mass, we went to our seats for the weekly papal address and blessing. The address/blessing is given in multiple languages to accomodate the thousands of people in attendance. As you can see in the photo, the weather was perfect - 60 degrees and not a cloud in the sky.

In the afternoon, we took of tour of Ancient Rome. The architecture and history of the Colosseum (think Gladiator) was fascinating - one of our favorite parts of the trip. Can you believe that they built a stadium out of bricks, concrete and marble to hold 60,000 people with a retractable roof over 2,000 years ago? We also saw the location of Circus Maximum (think Ben Hur). Many early Christians were martyred here. We also were able to see the ancient ruins of Rome. At St. Peter In Chains church, we were able to see Michelangelo's statue of Moses and the actual chains which were used to imprison St. Peter. Can you believe this stuff?

Although we were tired from a long day, we were rejuvenated by the 'St. Paul Outside the Walls' bascilica http://www.sacred-destinations.com/italy/rome-st-paul-outside-walls.htm . This church was rebuilt in the 19th century in the exact format from which it was built almost 2000 years ago. We felt like an early Christian going to Church. This church was built over the cemetary in which St. Paul was buried. While we were there, we came upon a mass was being celebrated by a cardinal and concelebrated by about 60 priests.

Late in the evening, we went out for a delicious farewell group dinner at Ristorante Benito. It was highlighted by a three person Italian music group that sang several popular Italian songs. Very festive and very filling.

Beuno sera!