Day 8

Tuesday, June 30, 2015

Today was another beautiful day filled with wonderful blessings. Our morning began with Cardinal James Stafford graciously explaining to us the history and meaning of the Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere, one of the first churches opened in Rome. We were struck by the beauty of the mosaics depicting important events in the life of Mary, as well as the exquisite marble columns and flooring and gold detailing of the ceiling, all created to honor Christ and His Mother. Cardinal Stafford then gave us a conference focusing on St. John of the Cross and his works and spirituality, particularly with regard to the Song of Songs. This is spirituality is reflected in the next church that we visited, Santa Maria della Scala. Administered by the Discalced Carmelites, the aspect of Mary emphasized here was her compassion and sharing in the sufferings of Christ as Mother of Compassion and Mother of Mercy. Cardinal Stafford celebrated Mass for us after which we were given a tour of the church by one of the Carmelite priests in residence there.

Cardinal Stafford explaining the the icon behind him in Santa Maria in Trastevere. Dating from the 7th Century, or possibly earlier, it is one of the oldest icons of Mary in Rome.

Adjacent to Santa Maria della Scala is the oldest pharmacy in Rome. Opened by the Carmelites in 1590 it was the pharmacy of the popes and other dignitaries living or visiting in the city. Opened to the public in 1700, it was closed in 1954. After learning about some of their compounds, one of which included vipers as an ingredient, we gained a greater appreciation for modern medicine!

Cardinal Stafford and the sisters get a lesson in medieval pharmacy.

This afternoon we were privileged to attend Cardinal Raymond Burke's 40th Anniversary Mass of his ordination to the priesthood at Santa Maria in Cosmedin. Following the beautiful liturgy, we were pleasantly surprised to meet St. Gianna Molla's youngest daughter, Gianna, who was also in attendance at the Mass.

Sr. Veronica greets St. Gianna's daughter, Gianna, following Cardinal Burke's 40th Anniversary of Ordination Mass. 

The sisters were able to congratulate Cardinal Burke following the Anniversary Mass.

We close today with great gratitude for all of the events and blessings of this day, and look forward to what the Lord has in store for us tomorrow.