Fa Caldo!

As it seems to be in many parts of the United States these days, it's hot in Rome!  Today is the Feast of Saints Peter and Paul, patrons of the city of Rome.  It is a civic holiday here and the government offices are closed.  The house is abuzz with activity this week as delegates begin to arrive for our General Chapter.  More about that later, but here's a few pictures on this festive day.
Ciao!

So, there's a pyramid in Rome!

The new class of 2012: Gautier (Burkina Faso), Nereo (Mexico), Javier (Spain), Daniel (Kenya), me, Joseph (India).

The Basilica of St. Paul-Outside-the-Walls.  It's a bit of a hike from our house because, well, it's quite a ways outside the city walls.  But, it's one of my favorite churches so far because...

...this mosaic is beautiful and quite captivating.

...the interior is just a large, open space.  To be inside reminds you just how insignificant you are, and yet you are surrounded by God's grace and mercy.

...now that's a Paschal candelstick!  (This one is for the liturgy nerds.  You know who you are.)

...the tomb of St. Paul and the chains which held him captive in Rome.

Piazza del Popolo and an obelisk that dates from 2400 B.C.

Piazza del Popolo with Brothers Bosco, Dani, and Daniel.

With Bro. Bosco overlooking the city.

Hey look....

... St. Peters.

Church of San Sabina and Generalate of the Dominicans.  I liked how the light was coming into the church.

At Trevi Fountain with Bro. Dani.  No, we didn't swim in it.

Tourists or Romans????

Just one more....This week, we celebrated the birthday of our Rector, Fr. Pachi.  Here he is toasting with the staff of the house.  Salute!!!