pilgrim blog 20 - other places in rome

Because World Youth Day in Lisbon has now started, postings about Rome need to be wrapped up. Therefore, each of these other places in Rome only have a single photo, and the barest of descriptions. The post after this one will be a brief look at the social side of being a pilgrim in Rome – and then the World Youth Day posts will start.

All 9 photos here are by Vincent.
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But first, a reflection on my time at the Catacombs of St Callistus:
It was almost like St Patrick’s, Church Hill, in the city of Sydney, but cooler (as in colder) and underground. An oasis away from the mad throng (physical and/or spiritual) of Rome, and a place of shelter, calm, and cool away from the heat.
It was a spiritual palate cleanser from the Colosseum and Forum, and the rest of the city at large. A moment to breathe, be, and know that we aren’t alone in our trials in this current age. Many have gone before us; and are calling us on with them to the heavenly home land.
 
Inside the Vatican Museums
One of the very long corridors covered in artwork.

​Sancta Sanctorum, exterior
This used to be the personal chapel of the pope when he lived at St John Lateran.
It contains some much-venerated icons.

Colosseum Interior
Great numbers of people viewing the inside of the Colosseum.

​Roman Forum, scenic view
To get to this view, you have to do a lot of walking with almost no shade.

​Basilica of St Cosmas and St Damian
Of 6th century Christian origin; but it went through a major restoration in the 17th century of just about everything except this beautiful mosaic apse.

​Parish church of St Paula the Roman Matron
Where some pilgrims found Mass on 31 July thanks to seminarian Matthew’s help.
It was walking distance from our hotel.
St Paula, a widow, lived at the same time as St Jerome, and was of great assistance to him not only in Rome, but also in Bethlehem.

​Trevi Fountain
The song, Three Coins in the Fountain (1955) from the movie of the same name, refers to throwing coins into this particular fountain in Rome. Each of the three coins represent a different wish, one of which is to return to Rome.

​Church of the Gesu; Statue of St Ignatius of Loyola
This is headquarters for the Jesuit order, and I was blessed to be there for Mass on 31 July, the feast day of St Ignatius Loyola – and founder of the Jesuit order.

​Pantheon
What used to be a pagan temple to many gods in the 2nd century, and since the 7th century has been a Christian church dedicated to St Mary and the Martyrs.

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Vincent Cavanagh   #bbwyd
31 Jul 2023, 2.42pm Italy: 31 Jul 2023, 10.42pm Sydney