Meaningful Meandering

Our day began with a Metro ride to one of the churches.  Unfortunately, it was closed so we meandered the streets of Rome.  We visited a few sights and found our way to the Pantheon.  This is one of the best preserved of the ancient buildings in Rome.  It has served many purposes throughout its history, now operating as a church.  It is also the final resting place for two former kings and the painter Raphael.

Our next stop was a few blocks away at the Piazza di Novana.  Diane pointed out that one of the features of the winding roads is that one can seldom see what lies ahead.  We walked into the Piazza and were stunned by its beauty and activity.  There was a street fair atmosphere to the piazza.  Vendors and carnival games and even a merry-go-round. The piazzas are gathering places for people and a great place to watch others. We joined in the fun, having lunch and watching the people around us.





After spending time in the piazza and a trip to the Museum of Rome, we walked to another piazza, the Piazza of Spagna.  What struck me most here was the international feel of the area.  In the piazza there was a bagpiper playing for the crowds.  Then we walked up the 132 stairs (Diane counted) brought from Spain.  At the top of the stairs is the Trinita dei Monti church, a primarily French speaking church.  They were just beginning mass there, so we sat and enjoyed the worship.  Unlike another church where we worshiped, this one was very welcoming.  We both felt very at home, in spite of the language differences.  The music and singing were wonderful, led by the monks and nuns in the church.  When it came time for the passing of the peace, the monks and nuns walked through the crowd with warm hospitality.  Such a welcoming spirit truly makes a difference.  I was very touched by the service and was glad that we arrived when we did.

After worship we returned to the hotel for a bit and then found a little restaurant around the corner for an excellent dinner.  Another fine day in Italy.

Peace, my friends.