Spinster Does Rome

I'm a bad, bad blogger.

2011-06-13T03:16:00.000-07:00

Yes. I am in Rome. Yes. I've been here two weeks without a single blog post. I have a laundry list of reasons, but I won't bore you with them. The main reason is that I left my camera home. But thanks to Sue Hines, it is now here and getting a work out.

It's been a whirl wind two weeks. The first week was absorbed with doing advanced work. Meeting with the hotel, meeting with presenters, setting up the meeting room, setting up the lounge, setting up the chapel. All that with jet lag. Which means everything took twice as long as it should have.

The program began on Sunday night. The group is 50 people from 23 Universities in 8 countries. They are a very dynamic group.

Below are some pictures from the Papal audience. We were on the dais with the Pope. When we were introduced to him, our group gave a very loud cheer. He smiled and waved at us. And I think he actually chuckled a little bit. Maybe the idea of college professors being so loud made him laugh. In his remarks he mentioned our group by name. All in all a great audience.

In the past I've always had Joan take care of "the Ticket". This year, for what ever reason, I had possession of the ticket. So, I was the one who lead the group to the gates and handed it to the various officials. The closer you get to the "good seats" the more formal the officials get. This is the last official I had to present the ticket to before we were lead to our seats. When I handed him the ticket, he smiled broadly and with a beautiful Italian accent said "Welcome madame. We are most happy to have you here." My cold little heart went pitter patter. I like to think of him as my Vatican boy friend. In the future, Joan will have to pry the ticket out of my cold dead hands. There is no way I will pass up that opportunity again.

The weather was perfect. Partly cloudy, reasonably cool and breezy.

This is Sue Hines standing behind where we were seated.

The Vatican guard who was stationed behind our seats. He looked like he was 16.

Other pilgrims.

And there's the Pope.

People are always shocked by how small he is. He's really tiny.

On Thursday night the Latinos hosted the social. It was fun and the food was fabulous. They had gotten organized in advance and brought all kinds of ingredients from Mexico to make the food.

JBDL overseeing the preparations.

Sangria being made by members from Mexico, Spain and Brazil.

I was designated the official taster of the Sangria. It's a very important job. After each ingredient is added, you take a taste and decide if it's on the right track.

Eventually, it doesn't matter if it's on the right track or not.

On this day, I had dropped a drawer on my toe. At first I was sure I had broken it. The woman in the middle of this picture was my personal physician. She's a professor at the medical school at Lasalle Mexico City. She's a wonderful doctor!!!!

Br. Michael and the participants from Lewis University enjoying the food.

Dancing, dancing, dancing.

Eating, eating, eating.

More Dancing.

And more dancing.

Br. Aramand in his party pants.

And speaking of dancing.
Those of you who know the people in this House will recognize many of the Brothers in this video.

One last comment.

2010-12-01T14:22:00.000-08:00

On our final day, the lay partners created a statement to give to the Brothers. We all contributed to the document but the final write up was beautifully done by Kane from New Zealand. When he read this out loud to the Brothers, I think everyone in the room needed a tissue. I know I did. I think it should be shared beyond the participants of CIL. So, here it is:

A Message from the English Speaking Lay Partners on the Occasion of CIL 2010

How do you express in mere words such an overwhelming appreciation for your continued caring, generosity, openness, and love?

Together, as one voice, we making the following testimony of our feelings to you, our Brothers.

We are so thankful for the gift of you.
We give thanks for your prophetic vision, unique commitment and openness.
We give thanks for your passion and continued sacrifice toward our shared mission.
We give thanks for your hospitality and your faithfulness in the face of a new dawn.
We give thanks for your humor, accepting us as family and treating us as a real brother would.

We are so inspired by the miracle of you.
We are inspired by your dedication and spirit despite difficulties and hardship.
We are inspired by your willingness to climb every mountain, regardless of terrain or weather.
We are inspired by your humble manner and obedience, body and soul, to your vocation.
We are inspired by your ability to face change and accept new realities.
We are inspired by your love of mission, your care for those in need and the desire to be there.

We promise from the depths of our hearts to continue this journey with you.
We promise to maintain formation and grow strong in faith and mission.
We promise you that every step of the way in the years to come, we will share these new realities together and by association.
We solemnly promise you, with heads held high, we will keep the "lights on" with you, and for our dear founder and for mission.

You have looked after us so well for so long.

We, countless thousands, past and present, children, the poor and the needy, owe you a debt that can never be repaid.

It is our time now to accompany you more closely and care as you have done for so long.

We are one in the same. We are one Lasalle.

With love and joy, your brothers and sisters in unity, family and mission.

Live Jesus in our Hearts

FOREVER!

Welcome home.

2010-11-30T12:28:00.000-08:00

So what really happened at CIL?

2010-11-27T02:47:00.000-08:00

I have seemed to avoid writing about what is really happening at CIL. It's a daunting task. So much of what has happened these past three weeks is impossible to put into words. I've studied, laughed, prayed, sang and danced with a group of incredible people. There are seventy-seven of us. We represent the Lasallian world. We come from Africa, Asia, Europe, America and South America. We speak different languages, but share one heart.

We entered into a process of discernment about Association. Each small language group - nine in total- created a statement that reflected their group discussions. Those individual statements were then merged into three language statements, one in French, one in Spanish and one in English. Those three statements were then merged into one statement to represent the participants of CIL 2010. The process of taking the thoughts of seventy-seven people writing in three different languages and creating a document that represented one voice should have been a nightmare. It wasn't. The final document represents the community and our shared voice.

Our Message of Hope

CIL 2010: Understanding and Living Association for Lasallian Mission Today

Dear Lasallians: Brothers and all who serve the Lasallian Mission,

Grateful and Challenged by a New Frontier

In a spirit of gratitude to our Lasallian ancestors and pride for our Lasallian Heritage, we Lasallians together (locally) and by association (globally) are called to see, to listen, to feel, and to proclaim. When we are true to the Lasallian educational mission to the poor, we are communities of prophetic witnesses and transformation agents.

The CIL program, “Understanding and Living Association for Lasallian Mission Today”, gathered seventy-seven Brother and Lay participants from 8 to 26 November 2010 and exposed us to the richness of Association in Lasallian history. We have shared our experiences of Association and reflected upon Circular 461 “Associated for the Lasallian Mission… an act of HOPE.”

We came together with anxiety, doubt, and fear about the future. But we began to see ourselves not at a crossroads but at a new frontier. We do not have a single choice to make, but a great unknown full of possibility which is both fearful and awesome.

Two key ideas greatly influenced us. First, our Founder, Saint John Baptist de La Salle, and the first Brothers considered the moment of entry into the community as the moment of consecration. Second, Association finds its meaning in the “for”, i.e. Association is for the educational service to the poor and disadvantaged.

After these days of reflection about our call "together and by association" we want to share with you the richness of what we have lived and prayed, to encourage you to dig a little deeper into the rich personality of the Founder, his work, his writings, and how they are a call by God to live the Mission.

Through our Vocation

We are a gathering of people who have come from diverse faith and community experiences. We are people on a journey in response to a call by God, in search of a better world just as La Salle was. We realize that through education we can participate in creating the kingdom of God on earth. To this call, we respond by associating for mission. We want our communities to respond creatively to the realities and needs of our different environments.

A Welcoming Diversity

Two symbols spoke to us: God’s ever expanding tent which has room for all and the promise of the rainbow which intimates that all are one in a beautiful diverse world. These symbols evoked in us a sense of hope, a confidence that this is God’s work, and a commitment to act together and by association to build the kingdom.

Essential for New Life: Tradition, Transition, and Transformation

Our discussion led us to identify three components to our current experience of Lasallian Association: Tradition, Transition, and Transformation. In a work of art, we represent our experience as tradition (our roots), transition (the seed ready to sprout), and transformation (a new plant with branches reaching for the sky which will eventually bear great fruit). It may serve as an “icon” to aid us in reflecting about our personal experience of being associated for mission as well as the experience of association in our regions, districts, cities, and individual ministries.

In our tradition, we understand that the first Lasallian community composed of Saint John Baptist de La Salle and the early Brothers, “together and by association”, are our main point of reference and inspiration because based on their faith and their radical commitment the mission was born: to give a Human and Christian education to young people, especially the poor.

We draw upon our past in which three heroic generations of Brothers first, simply worked together, second, created a fragile community which was supportive and formative and, third, developed the necessary structures to sustain the mission for over 300 years.

Transition has been an ever present characteristic of our history. De La Salle and the early Brothers responded creatively to crisis after crisis. The Institute has responded similarly to the crises of history. During times of crisis, we need community discernment: “We must see with eyes wide open and feet firmly set on the ground, but with the heart also full of the Gospel and full of God.” (Monsignor Oscar Romero, 27 August 1978)

Today we are experiencing another momentous challenge which calls for another transformation. We, as Lasallians, are in a moment of grace in which we are challenged to transform our traditions through great personal and communal effort under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit and our Lasallian history. Each of us must let go of something and contribute something to the transformation. We discover those things through observation, reflection, and action. We affirm the vision of De La Salle and the founding Brothers; the need for the Lasallian mission of education, especially of the poor, is very great. Thus the need for every Lasallian is great.

We Look to the Future with Hope

We are keenly aware that certain parts of the Lasallian World are in need of particular support. This includes areas where governments, cultures, gender roles, and religious traditions do not provide a supportive environment for Lasallian Association. Association is for the entire Lasallian World, and so, we invite all to participate and support one another. As we experienced in these three weeks, our international association can provide the support needed to overcome these challenges.

We must be prophets who transform the present, who "together and by association" see with imagination and creativity a future that has never existed before. Our way of being knows no limits except those of the Lasallian charism, a charism that drives us to transform the world through various Lasallian educational works. These works respond creatively to our reality. We must be faithful to Gospel values, true to human relationships, see the world through the eyes of young people today, and take advantage of the technological advances which promote the exchange of experiences and knowledge in order to improve society.

We Commit to Associate for Mission

We commit to promote a Lasallian mission that addresses the needs of the poor and marginalized even beyond the school, to explore new understandings of vocation, and to take steps appropriate to our local circumstances. We commit to formation, accompaniment, and association for the mission!

During this period of movement from transition to transformation, we associate for mission by gathering locally and with other ministries (physically or electronically) to:

· Pray and share faith

· Socialize

· Celebrate

· Grow in our commitment

· Share our history, traditions, and cultural diversity

· Study / Work to improve our ministries to better adapt to the needs of students

· Tell the Lasallian story and our stories of being Lasallian

· Accompany one another into the Lasallian tradition in open communities

· Discuss, discern, and identify mission priorities

· Develop creative initiatives of community life and ministries which respond to the new needs of the poor

These and other formation activities are ultimately in the service of the Lasallian Mission of Education of the young, especially the poor.

Conclusion

We want to accompany those already journeying in the Mission, to fan the flickering flame of those who are questioning, and in every work, place, action and environment to be a sign of hope. We move forward, joining efforts, enthusiasm, and excitement.

We are aware of the great “co-responsibility” entrusted to us to be the “heart, memory and guarantor” of the Lasallian charism, but we have De La Salle’s assurance that as St. Paul says, "The Lord who has begun the work, will see it to its successful completion." (Philippians 1:6)

Live, Jesus, in our Hearts. Forever!

Thanksgiving Eve

2010-11-26T05:58:00.000-08:00

Br. Ray decided to throw a Thanksgiving bash for all the English speakers. He and Tina grocery shopped and stole a shopping cart from En Grande to bring everything back to the Mother House. Tina gave Br. Mark the job of returning it with the idea that if the polizia nabbed him, he acts innocent enough to convince them that he had no idea it was stolen. All went well and the cart was returned without incident.

Tina, Br. David and I acted as the Martha Society and prepared the food for the party while everyone else was at prayer. I have no pictures of the actual party. I was too busy partying. But here are some pictures of the set up.

The Den, cleaned and organized for a party.

Our appetizers.

The kitchen with lots of food prep under way.

Br. David was a huge help. He washed vegetables, dishes, kept the cooks in toddies and stood by prepared to administer first aid if we managed to cut ourselves with the dull knives.

Tina made her famous stuffed mushrooms and meatballs. The aroma filled the entire basement. As soon as people stepped into the basement we could hear their excitement. Food that smelled like home. It was a wonderful surprise for them.

After 18 days of pasta twice a day...

2010-11-23T07:37:00.000-08:00

a hamburger can make you weep.

Two Brothers and a Spinster walk into a bar...November 21, 2010

2010-11-23T07:19:00.000-08:00

Today was Two Brothers and a Spinster day. Br. David, Br. Mark and I spent an afternoon walking in the rain and seeing the sights. While the weather was not so great, the company was delightful.

Our first stop was the Trevi Fountain.

It rained most of our time there. The good part was that it was not so crowded so you get good pictures and toss your coin without elbowing someone.

I really like this picture now that I look at it. At the time, it seemed kinda dumb to be taking pictures of a fountain in the rain. The water falls lose their magic.

This is Br. Mark faking that he's throwing a coin in the fountain. He refused to actually throw money in.

The rain made the streets glow.

We stopped into one of my favorite places to get out of the rain. Rebecca, Mary and Joan know it well.

The rain didn't stop, but we didn't mind it as much afterwards.

Next stop was the Pantheon. You can'[t exactly get out of the rain in the Pantheon given that big hole in the roof.

But we enjoyed it none the less.

Br. Mark left his camera at home. He finally figured out that he could take pictures with his phone and went crazy in the Pantheon. I think he took a picture of every stone in the place.

Our next stop was Piazza Navona.

It was so beautiful in the rain.

We had dinner at Tre Scalini's. It's famous for the Tartufo. We didn't try it. 10 euros for a dish of ice cream seemed a little extravagant. We'd rather spend the money on wine.

This is Br. David anticipating yet another dish of carbonara. He's an aficionado.

Br. Mark looking at his photos.

This is my Little Match Girl photo. We were sitting outside in the rain (ok, under the tent) eating dinner while the other people were all cozy and warm in the restaurant.

I should add that all during dinner the rains was coming down in torrents. There was an actual river of water running past our feet. But, being the hardy midwesterners that we are we were determined to eat outside on the Piazza.

On our way back to the train, we walked past the Memphis Hotel. Br. Mark was suddenly possessed by Heidi Klum and wanted to pose for pictures in front of it. Lots and lots of pictures. I'm sparing you the multiple shots. You can thank me later.

A subway shot.

Br. Heidi posing for yet another picture. The best part of this picture is the lady to the right. She thought he was crazy.

Br. Heidi once again demanding his picture be taken. Yes, that's a McDonald's. But it's the De La Salle Mc Donalds, so that makes it photo worthy!

Sunday was wonderful! Back to work on Monday....

A Day in Firenze. November 20, 2010

2010-11-21T13:09:00.000-08:00

Today Br. Mark, Pam from DENA and I trekked to Florence for the day. We too the Eurostar, so the trip only took about 90 minutes. When we got there it was raining, so we found a nice covered outdoor cafe on the piazza Duomo with a lovely view of the Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore and had a cappuccino to relax and plan our day.

Br Mark from Memphis.

Pam from St. Gabe's Hall

It was a truly lovely day. There's something so nice about having your morning coffee while gazing at one of the most beautiful architectural wonders.

Here are a few photos of the doors of the baptistery. These are the famous "Doors to Paradise" made by

Ghiberti. The legend has it that they are called the Doors to Paradise because when Michaelangelo saw them he refereed to them by that name and it stuck.The doors took 21 years to complete and are absolutely spectacular. Each panel represents a scene from the Old Testament. The doors are gilded bronze.

This is David killing Goliath. The detail is simply amazing.

Doors of the Basilica.

Some stone work in the front of the Basilica.

The Pentecost.

This is a fairly bad photo of the inside of the Basilica. But it's the best one I have. I was trying to get a picutre of the dome and the walls to show the contrast of opulent and simple.

They had several trees of candles through out the church.

After the tour of the Basilica, we went to the Galleria dell Accademica to see Michael. I've never been there. Usually when I've been to Florence the line was long to get in the door.There was no line at all to get in and the Gallery was not busy at all. They had an exhibit of icons that was beautiful.

You are not allowed to take pictures in the Gallery, so our time with David was undocumented. I was not expecting to be wowed. I'd seen a jillion pictures of the statue on calendars, post cards and refridgerator magnets and have an apron hanging in my kitchen with his likeness on it. But nothing really prepared me for being in the same room with the piece. It is amazing.

After a couple of hours in the museum, we slowly strolled through the shopping area and had lunch.

For the folks in Memphis: Br. Mark at the train station.

Br. Mark on the train after a long day of shopping with the ladies. He's a real trooper!

We were back home in time for dinner at Casa Lasalle. It was a nice leisurely day. While we only saw a sliver of Florence, it was nice to just relax and take things slow. I'm ready to go back already!!!

Eat, pray, laugh. Friday, November 19, 2010.

2010-11-19T07:29:00.000-08:00

I can't believe it's been so long since I blogged. This week has flown by. We've been so busy doing, doing, doing.

Charlie from New Orleans, Br. John from Australia, Br. Charlie from the East Coast, Montse from Spain and Br. Alfonso in the translation booth.

Mass in the main Chapel.

My group posing in front of the relics of St. John Baptist de Lasalle and behind the Heroic Vow.

Not a replica. The real thing.

Br. John Baptist de Lasalle from Singapore, me, Charles from Papa New Guinea, Br. Ambrose from Maylasia, Heather from Rhode Island, Eden from the Philippines, Br. Joseph from Vietnam, Br. Ed from DENA and Br. John from San Francisco.

My table. Br. David, Tina, me Br. Mark and Mary. I think it's pure coincidence that Br. John and Br. Charlie (the program leaders) sit directly behind us. I'm sure it's not to supervise the trouble makers in the back.

The mail boxes for the CIL participants.

Br. Jason from Singapore and Tina.

I wish I knew what was being said at this moment. Neither of them look too thrilled about it.

Br. Jason giving a geography lesson at coffee break. He asked me to show him where Minnesota is on the map as he is coming to study next year. At least he was before I showed him where it is.

Br. Mawal is the newest staff member at CIL and is handling most of the English translation. Br. Charlie is the head of the Secretariat of the Lasallian Family and dance instructor. He has some seriously sweet moves.

My group hard at work.

Br. Ed and Heather. I think this picture completely captures both of their inner and outer beauty.

The American women have a dinner out.

From left to right: Tina from the Midwest; Pam from DENA; Mary from San Francisco; Heather from DENA; Me from the Midwest; Lois from DENA; and Carol from San Francisco.

My view from the back table.

Fr. Felix presenting on inter religious dialog. He was excellent!! His presentation was fascinating and cause for reflection and discussion among the participants.
I was fortunate to be at his table for lunch. He speaks 9 languages. It used to be 10 but he doesn't get to practice his Persian enough. He plays the cello, but only when he thinks nobody can hear him. He has a delightful sense of humor

An escape from the House to find some quiet and a cup of cuppacino.

Another picture of my group. We pose for a picture whenever someone walks by with a camera. We should be embarrassed...but we're not.

Br. Diego Munoz presented on the history of the vow and association. He is a wonderful teacher and a great academic. We are fortunate to have him leading the effort in Lasallian research.

I took this picture this morning. The sun was shining and the rain was pouring. It was beautiful.

Tomorrow is our day off. I am going to Florence for the day to do some shopping for a very special friend.

Ciao Bellas!!

Saturday, November 13,2010

2010-11-13T15:52:00.000-08:00

We had the entire day off today. Br. Leonardo graciously offered to take Br. Mark, Br. David, Tina and I to Assisi for the day.

This is the view of the Basilica of St. Francis and Assisi from Santa Maria degli Angeli.

This is the view of Br. David and Br. Mark on the road below Assisi.

You can tell by the shadows that this was taken in the middle of the afternoon. After we had the patented two hour Italian lunch. Let me tell you later about the regiano ravioli in sage butter sauce with pears.

After lunch we went to the Hermitage. It's where St. Francis retreated to pray/ I'd never been there before. It's at the top of the mountain.

This is a picture of the road to the Hermitage. As you can see the sun was getting very low in the sky at this point.

After we had spent a couple of hours at the Hermitage, we went down to Assisi. Here's a sunset photo of the Basilica of St. Francis. We got there just in time to go into all three chapels. We had hoped to attend Mass, but there is no Mass on Saturday nights.

The view from below the Basilica.

Can you find Br. Mark and Br. Leonardo in this picture? It's supposed to be a picture of those two looking at the Basilica.

At this point we had walked the entire length of Assisi and needed to walk back to the other end to get our car. During the entire walk back it seemed like we were walking straight up the mountain.

I had hoped to take pictures of windows while I was there. The homes in Assisi always have such beautiful flowers in the windows. So, I started back with that in mind. However, that's not exactly how things turned out.

So far so good. Cute window. Fairly good picture.

Still kinda ok. A little blurry but I was beginning to breath a little heavy and holding the camera still was a bit difficult.

Still recognizable. At this point I was breathing fairly heavily but was still able to stand still without leaning over. Notice the path to the right. That's the path we were on. For blocks and blocks.

At this point I was gasping for air. My face was red, my eyes were watery and I appeared I may collapse. When I stopped to take this picture a shop keeper came out and invited me to come in and sit down for a while. I think he thought it would be very bad business to have a tourist collapse right in front of his shop.
As you can tell, I was breathing so hard I couldn't hold the camera even slightly steady.

This is the final picture before I totally gave up any hope of being able to take pictures.

Right after I took this picture two older women (older than me) strolled by in very high heels. Seriously.

I'd have taken a picture, but...

The good news is that I made it home in one piece and Br. David and Br. Mark admitted the climb about did them in too. Right now I'm sitting on my bed looking at my sore feet and wishing I could go back again tomorrow. I love Assisi.

Thursday, November 11, 2010

2010-11-11T15:24:00.000-08:00

Today was group day. This morning we discussed our reflections on yesterday's presentations, created posters to represent our discussions and then presented the posters. Every member of my group was very hands on in making our poster.

I love the finished product. It represents bamboo and how we as Lasallians need to be more like bamboo. Sending out new roots, widening our base and bringing up new shoots in our home ministries.

This evening, Br. Leonardo took Tina, Br. Mark, Br. David and I on a night tour of Rome. My photos in no way represent the beauty of Rome at night.

This is St. Peter's Square. Notice the lights are on in the Papal apartment. I'm sure he was sitting up late thinking about ordaining women.

Br. Mark, Tina, Br. Leonardo and Br. David sharing theories about what the Pope watches on t.v. on Thursday nights. I heard that during Project Runway, he was on team Mondo.

This is a little better shot. The streak to the lower right is a motor cycle. He was a little close for comfort.

The Fountain Aquapaola.
This is right beside the Spanish Embacy. There were guards with guns to my left as I was talking these pictures.

The Brothers.

The Tiber at Tiberina Island.
At one point the Island was a place for criminals and the chronically ill - perhaps a leper colony. Today it has a hospital and is the home of the Hospitaller Order of St. John of God and the Basilica of San Bartomeo.

The Arch of Constantine.
The building of this began in 312 and it was dedicated in 315.

More of the Arch of Constantine.

The Colosseum.
Construction began approximately 70 A.D. and was completed in 80 A.D. It had seating from about 50,000.

Another shot of the Colosseum.

An interesting fact from Wikipedia: the local authorities of Rome change the color of the Colosseum's night time illumination from white to gold whenever a person condemned to the death penalty anywhere in the world gets their sentence commuted or is released, or if a jurisdiction abolishes the death penalty. Most recently, the Colosseum was illuminated in gold when capital punishment was abolished in the American state of New Mexico in April 2009.

Brother Leonardo.

Brother is the Canon Lawyer for the Christian Brothers. And he's a pretty good tour guide too! His home country is Colombia, but he drives like a Roman.

Rome from the top of the highest hill.At night, it glows.

This is my art shot. It's a long exposure of the city at night.

And that's it for tonight. It's very late and I need to shut down and get some sleep.

Ciao, Bellas!

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

2010-11-10T15:08:00.000-08:00

I've been really busy the last two days. But not busy in the usual American way. Busy in the Italian way. Sometimes I think the Italian way is more exhausting.

This is a picture of our meeting room one of the rare times it's almost empty. Even between sessions it is a center of activity. It's the only room in CIL with wireless access, so many people hang out here to get on the internet. But more importantly, this is one of the places where people tend to gather to talk.

This is the CIL lounge. The other place where people gather to talk. This is Br. Mark, Tina, Kane from New Zealand, and Br. Jason from Singapore. Br. Jason will be coming to Saint Mary's in the summer to begin the Lasallian Leadership program.

Of course, we eat and drink well. This is Br. John from Australia, Mary from San Fransisco and Br. David being served a little sparkling wine by my friend Stephano.

Today is the first day we really got into the meat of the meeting. Up to now it has been orientation. They have done a nice job of getting people comfortable with the surroundings and each other. The material we will be exploring is somewhat controversial in various parts of the Lasallian Family.

Today Br. Louis spoke. It was an absolutely wonderful presentation. He talked about the difference between change and transformation. He talked about the way the Church regards women and sexuality. He talked about the importance of seeing reality. Not as we think it is, or wish it is, but as it is. I'm sure he rattled some people. I could see a few shifting uncomfortably in their chairs. I think that is good.

His message was that if we only do what De La Salle did, we will fail. A literal application of De La Salle's work will not be effective in today's society. We need to transform De La Salle's work to meet the needs of our time. In fact, De La Salle was trans-formative. To really walk in his foot steps we need to transform our current society.

It was interesting that a number of Brothers from the central community came to hear Br. Louis speak. He's writing a book on the topic and I think they wanted to get an idea of what he's thinking. I'll be interested to hear what their reactions were.

We meet in our small groups tomorrow morning to discuss Br. Louis' presentation. I'm looking forward to hearing what people have to say.

I have some pictures of Br. Louis, but the internet is extremely slow here tonight and I need to get to bed. So, just imagine Brad Pitt.

The rain is supposed to subside tomorrow. I hope so. I haven't been out of the house in two days. I need to get out from behind the walls and feel the city.

Ciao, Bellas!

Monday, rainy Monday.

2010-11-08T14:32:00.000-08:00

My theory is that it's always good to have rain on the first day of a program. So, today was a good day.

We started the day with some housekeeping issues. Fairly uneventful until it got to the topic of laundry. It started out great. "Your laundry will be done for you. Blue bags for your laundry and laundry marking pens are on the shelf. Put it out on Wednesday morning."

And then the hammer dropped.

"Oh, that's just for the men. The women will do their own laundry in the laundry room on third floor."

Imagine the reaction of the women in the room. It was still a topic of conversation at dinner tonight.I doubt the basic insult will be forgotten soon. I think people might have been ok if the Brothers were having their laundry done for them. But when it's the laymen and not the laywomen, it stings.

Br. Mark and Br. David have both offered to let me put their names on my clothes. That would get the ladies in the laundry room talking!!!

My small group spent most of the day together. We have members from the Philippines, Vietnam, Papa New Guinea, Malaysia, Thailand and the US. The people are wonderful. I'm completely in awe of the work they do.

I'm planning to interview each of them for the blog. You will find their stories very interesting.

One of the Brothers in my group works with street children in Vietnam. He gave each of us one of these sculptures made from bamboo roots by his students.

This is the one he gave me. It looks like a father, mother and baby. It's really neat.

This afternoon, we had a ceremony in the large chapel and then a tour of the Generalate and the local neighborhood. The we met for an aperitivo before dinner.

This, of course, is not a picture of the chapel.

You'll notice the northerners look rather warm and those from warmer climates are freezing.

It's obvious the group is beginning to meld well. There are over 75 of us here. When we break into small groups there are four Spanish language groups, four English language groups and one French language group. However, when we have a social like this, there is much cross language conversation. I'm not sure if everyone really understands each other, but we are trying.

After dinner seven of us decided to brave the rain and go for gelato. It was a cold wet walk, but the destination made it all worth while.

Hmmmm. Gelato!!!!!

And that was my day. More or less. It's late and I must get to sleep. See you tomorrow.

Ciao!

Lovely restful Sunday

2010-11-07T14:26:00.000-08:00

Today was a very restful day. Tina slept in, Br. David walked to St. Peters, Br. Mark was nursing the end of a cold and decided to stay in and I just hung around the house and took up space.

I went to Mass this morning in the Chapel. The Italian Lasallian Family has been here the past several days holding their conference. The Mass was the closing mass. It was interesting to meet so many Italian Lasallians and find out more about their schools. I remained in the Chapel afterward to take some pictures of the Martyrs Chapel. The position of the sun was causing the gold mosaic tiles to glow.

It was much more beautiful in person than this photo represents.

Five bucks to anyone who can tell me what this fruit is. And it's not an orange or a peach. When it's ripe it is red in color and looks like a pomegranate on the outside, but it's not a pomegranate.

As many of you know, I really dislike this statue. It's nicknamed "The Grasshopper". Yet I return to it again and again. Perhaps there is some meaning in that. There must be a reason I'm drawn to this statue.

Probably because there is a bench beside it that makes a good place to wait for lunch. I have more photos of this than anything else at the Generalate. I must be early for lunch a lot!!!
Here's two more pictures to add to the collection of "art I really dislike".

I end today with the statue of St. Joseph and young Jesus. St. Joseph is the Patron Saint of the Christian Brothers because, as Br. William explains, he loved and nurtured a child that was not his own. Prior to that conversation, I had never given much thought to Joseph. Now I think about him often and marvel at the other "Josephs" I know. Teachers, parents, neighbors, ministers. Hilary almost got it right. It takes a village of Josephs to raise a child.

With that, I'm off to sleep. The program starts tomorrow and I need a good night's sleep.

Ciao Bellas!

Ah, Roma!

2010-11-06T10:37:00.000-07:00

We arrived yesterday morning at 6:30 a.m. That made for an entire of day of stumbling around trying to stay awake. Next time I come, remind me how horrible it is to spend a zombie day. The day is totally lost to me, even though I was upright and participating in the day. All I know for sure is that we had drinks and dinner. But I could say that about almost every day of my life.

Br. Mark, Tina and Br. David refreshed and ready to take on the day. That, of course, is St. Peter's Basilica in the background.

The obligatory group shot.

I'm taking lots of photos of Br. Mark so he can send them to his kids at his school.

This is Br. David. He could send this picture to his kids, but I doubt high school kids are as excited to see their principal as elementary school kids are. But, they might just want to be reassured he's an ocean away.

The line to get into St. Peter's was too long, so we decided to jump on the Red bus to have a ride around Rome. I've never done that before. It's a nice way to get a look at the city and get a general sense where things are and what you where you might want to spend more time.

Our tour was especially interesting as we shared our bus with the Hell's Angels. Yes. The real Hell's Angels. I so wanted to take a picture, but one could just sense that would not be the best idea. They were big, loud and scary. And that was just the women. The men were even more so.

We all got off the bus at St. Peters Square. I think a photo of them in St. Peter's Square would be priceless. But I'm a chicken.

We had lunch and did a bit of shopping on the Borgo.

I promised Scott photos of food, so here goes.

Prosciutto pizza.

Pizza Margarita.

Pizza and salami and pasta carbonara.

It was an absolutely beautiful day to have lunch outside. I asked Tina to pose in front of the Special Menu.

After lunch, we returned to St. Peters. I have never been there when the light was coming through the window. It was so beautiful.

One of the pillars of Bernini's baldacchino. It's impossible to take a photo that really represents the beauty of this piece.

Many, many empty confessionals.

This is my most favorite piece, The Pieta by Michael Angelo. I enlarged the picture so you could get a close look at the sculpture. I find the look on Mary's face simply breath taking. The most unfortunate part about this sculpture is that there is almost always a crush of tourists around it. I think it's a piece that should be contemplated. One needs to sit and gaze upon the elements of the piece to really absorb the whole message. Unfortunately, that's impossible. There is always a tour guide blathering on about the date is was carved and the first place it was put.

Look at the faces of Mary and Jesus. See how she grasps him with one hand and lifts the palm of the other towards heaven. There are many expert interpretations of this piece. I have my own. I won't bore you with it because I think everyone is entitled to see whatever speaks to them in great art.

And of course, De La Salle in his place above St. Ignatius. You can also interpret that as you wish.

Ciao, bellas!!!

Count down to take off!

2010-11-02T20:26:00.000-07:00

Hello Spinsrter fans!

Stand by for another exciting travel blog from the Holy City. I promise to blog much more regularly than I have on past trips.

I will be leaving on Thursday, November 4 and returning on Monday, November 28. That gives me 24 days of blogging. Stand by for photos of great food and places, video interviews of interesting people and updates on what I'm learning. This promises to be a great trip!

And for your entertainment: Italian Lessons

The Return to Roma

2009-06-07T14:53:00.001-07:00

Alas

I've been very bad about updating the blog since I've been here. Mary and I arrived on June 3rd. It's been a crazy whirlwind of activity ever since.

Rebecca and Jack arrived yesterday, Saturday June 6th. I immediately took them out for drinks. Nothing cures jet lag like a espresso or Peroni. They were complete troopers and hung on until after the nightly trip for gelato.

Mary, Joan and I have been very busy doing prep work.

Mary and Joan at the Mercado looking for straight pins. Incredibly hard to find in Rome!

The early arrivers at Blue Ice on Friday night. We are celebrating Marta's birthday.

Joan and Mary stuffing packets.

More packet stuffing.

Today was the official arrival day. Unfortunately it was not uneventful.

One of our participants grought her one year old son. He was running a high fever this afternoon. We are most fortunate that one of the medical professors from the Philippines is with our program. He is monitoring the baby.

Another participant was pick pocketed on her way here. She lost her money and her credit card. We have been trying to help her contact her husband and bank.

Other people have lost their luggage. Apparently the connection through Paris is notorious for lost luggage.

Otherwise, things seem to be off to a great start.

Today is the day the Brothers renew their vows. It was wonderful to be in the De La Salle Chapel with the Brothers to witness their vow renewal.

Everyone is here. A number of people went out tonight to celebrate Jorge's birthday. When I left the little bar, I told him I'd see him at mass at 7:00 a.m. I think I'll be lucky if he makes the first session at 9:00 a.m. By the time I left, he was telling everyone that I am his mother. There was a group of American college students who believed him. Seriously, our accents are nothing alike!!

Happy birthday to Jorge.

Arrivederci Roma!

2009-02-15T07:32:00.001-08:00

Hello All,

The internet at the Generalate (hey, that rhymes) was down for three days. This is my last official Rome, February 09 post.

It was a crazy busy week. A whirl wind of meetings, great food, meetings, new friends, meetings, old friends and jet lag. I'm thrilled with how the summer program is shaping up. The reception of the Institute programs was wonderful.

Mary arrived on Thursday. We left Saturday morning. Our last evening Mary, Tina, Stanley and I went down to the little street bar for drinks and then went to the grocery store to buy appetizers. It turned into a lovely picnic of cheeses, meats, nuts, bread and wine. A perfect last evening in Rome.

Tina, Mary and I on our last night. I look a little too much like The Joker. However, Mary and Tina look fabulous!!!!

Fox and Rox.

Stanley and me in our brand new stylin' hats. Yes, we were freezing.

A long shot of our favorite pizza place down by the Spanish steps.

Freaky doll heads. We saw these in a window.

I have no idea why they are there, but it was so scary and cool at the same time.

So, that was my trip.

I'm looking forward to returning in June for more adventures, new friends, old friends and gelato.

Arrivederci Roma!

Wednesday, February 11

2009-02-11T07:55:00.000-08:00

Hello Friends,

I'm having busy and fruitful days in Rome. I managed to secure four speakers for the Summer program yesterday and talked with several people about the Institute programs.

I'ts been great to see Br. Louis. He looks absolutely wonderful. I've never seen him so relaxed and happy.

Yep, three computers. He actually does his own email and everything. He's very proud!

We went for dinner with Br. Louis last night.

It was possibly the best meal I've ever eaten. We started with zucchini blossoms stuffed with ricotta and then battered and fried. Heaven. Pure heaven. Then we had buffulo mozarella that was the creamiest I've ever eaten. And of course, proscuitto.

For the pasta course we had ravioli in an orange sauce. It sounds odd, but it was so good I wanted to roll in it. The ravioli was filled with ricotta and the orange sauce seemed to be a combination of cream, fresh orange juice, orange zest and parsley. I'm sure there was something else but I can't figure out what it could have been.

For the main course, I had "tiny meatballs" with broccoli rabe. I'm sure the meatballs were veal and they were in a mushroom sauce. Very, very nice.

After all that, I couldn't even consider desert.

We were going to go down to St. Peter's this afternoon. We went out of capaccino this morning and it started sleeting. Hard. We decided that standing out in the rain did not sound like a great idea. Actually, it was a good thing as I was able to schedule meetings for tomorrow and have some informal chats with people I wanted to see.

Tonight we're going to go to happy hour in the CIL building. There are some CIL participants who want to ask me some questions about the Institute degree programs. After that, I think we'll head out for dinner. I have no idea where, but it would be nice to be out of the House this evening after spending most of the day here.

Ok, trivia contest. Guess which bed belongs to who.

Good Tuesday Morning.

2009-02-10T04:18:00.000-08:00

I have no pictures today. I had a good meeting yesterday afternoon which generated two more meetings for this afternoon. That is good.

Scott and I went out for dinner at "Johnny's" with Tina last night. Scott started feeling better yesterday afternoon and is back to full steam today.

Scott is having a good time and meeting many interesting people. He was on his own yesterday afternoon and seems to be making himself at home in the neighborhood. As at home, he already is buddies with the guy at the coffee shop. We met someone on the street today who greeted him like he was an old friend and last night the man who owns the sidewalk bar brought out his children's pictures to show us. I guess I don't have to worry about him being entertained while I'm working. He seems to do ok.

I'll try to get some pictures to post later this evening.

Ciao!

Monday, February 9

2009-02-09T02:43:00.000-08:00

Ah, finally able to blog. We moved to our second room today. At first we were in the Cardinal suite, but apparently someone important came and we were moved earlier than was originally planned to our second room. The new room is huge and we have two beds! So nobody is going to have to sleep on the floor. Yay!

So far the trip has been hard on Scott. He came down with the flu on the flight over. He was one sick dude. I didn't think I'd get him on the plane again in Amsterdam.

He slept until 1:00 yesterday. We went down to the Spanish steps yesterday afternoon and wandered around for a while. We both bought hats at the Borsalino store and had some pizza. He's been in bed most of the day so far. I got him up so we could move our room and we walked down the street to have some coffee. Now he's back in bed. Hopefully he'll feel better later and we can go out for dinner. He needs to eat something.

Last night one of the folks in the CIL program was having a birthday party and we were invited to join. Lets just say Aquavite is not a good choice for me.

I visited Br. Louis this morning in his office. He seems so relaxed and looks the best I've seen him in a long time. We had a nice visit. Oh, and he has three computers on his desk. He's quite proud of it! And he pointed out that he actually uses them. Ha!

I'm meeting with the Vicar General and one of the General Councilers this afternoon. I'm trying to get my meetings set, but I forgot that you don't schedule meetings in Rome. People let you know when they are ready. So, I'm waiting in my room for someone to call me.

My sweet Rome cat. I think she's pregnant.

Scott in the Minneapolis airport before he got the plague.

The Swiss Alps peaking through the clouds.

We're Here

2009-02-07T06:26:00.000-08:00

Hello all. I just wanted to let you know we have arrived. Stanley is in bed as I write this. I'll give more details later.

Spinster Does Rome, version 3.1

2009-02-05T14:29:00.000-08:00

The Spinster Does Rome, version 3.1

The adventure continues...

The final night in Rome.

2008-06-25T20:35:00.000-07:00

Paul stylin in his hat from Lewis University.

Angelina from Brazil, Juan David from Columbia, Elia from Mexicao and Luly from Mexico.

Angelina and Sister Jane.

Shawn from Mahanttan and Ginny from St. Mary's of California.

Haifa, Joseph, Ed and Albert.

Maria, Jenny, Br. Jose and Alma.

Pamela from Lewis, Ann Margaret from the Phillipines, Helene from France, Richard from Lewis and Rebecca from SMC.
Marriane from Phillie, Joe from SMU, Madeliene from Phillie, Virginias friend, Virgina from SMC and Ron from the College of Santa Fe.
Sue from SMU: Haifa, Albert and Joseph from Bethlehem; Sr. Jane from Christ the Teacher and Paul from SMU.

Bob from the Phillipines.

Florence

2008-06-25T20:23:00.000-07:00

John showing the Lasallian spirit by ingnoring the pregnant gypsy woman begging for mone.

The most beautiful restaurant on earth.

Various shots of the beauty of Florence.

Richard in search of Galileio's fingers.
Our crew still listening to the tour guide.

Florence is beautiful. These pictures only capture a glimpse of the city.

June 10, 2008

2008-06-12T15:23:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday afternoon the groups worked on their projects. Here's the SMU crowd hard at work.

Sue hard at work.

Sr. Jane hard at work.

Joe hard at work.

Assisi

2008-06-08T13:37:00.000-07:00

Today I was blessed to spend the day in Assisi. We left at 7:00 a.m. and took the train. It's difficult to explain Assisi. Yes it's beautiful, but it's much more than that. There is something almost palpable about the spirituality.

Joan, Sue and I visited three churches: The Basilica de Santa Maria degli Angeli, the Basilica de Santa Chiara and the Basilica of San Francesco. We took our time and soaked it all in. We could have gotten to more churches, but we decided to savor the ones we went to. In order to see them all we would have had to rush through.

Most of my pictures are city scenes. You can't take pictures in the churches. Which is a very good thing. The pictures really need no description. As with the city, they are best enjoyed in silence.

Assisi

2008-06-08T13:30:00.000-07:00

June 6, 2008

2008-06-06T14:16:00.001-07:00

Hello!

I've been so exhausted the last few nights that I've neglected my blogging. Things here are very busy. Between the actual sessions, the meetings to plan the sessions and the meetings to evaluate the sessions, I've been pretty ding dang busy.

We had a free afternoon today. I went to St. Peters with the SMU and Bethlehem University crowd. The people from those two Universities have forged a special bond. They go out together to tour the city every evening.

I had the same experience last year. I spent much time with Faudi and Michel from Bethlehem and came to think of them as close friends. I would have to ask Sue and Paul, but I sense they have the same type of friendship I experienced last year. As I watched everyone interact today I thought about the authenticity of their friendship. They joked, teased, and took care of each other. They shared stories about their lives, their children, gave each other advice and laughed a lot. They have developed a real sense of caring within this small community during the past six days. I was so fortunate to have the opportunity to spend the afternoon with them. It was one of the highlights of my week.

Below is a picture of Alfred, Haifa, Paul, Sue and Alfred at St. Peters Square. Alfred, Haifa and Joseph are all from Bethlehem University. Joe is missing from this picture. He seems to be missing for periods of time and then find the group. I would be panicking and they would say "Joe always finds us." They are quite used to it.

This is Maurillo for Mexico City enjoying the wonderful weather under a magnolia tree. This man is a tech wizzard, a theologian and an excellent singer who has just released a CD in Mexico. And he's an incredibly nice guy.

This is Sue at the view from the highest point in Rome.

Tonight's video. This is what happens when you have people locked up in sessions for hours on end. A couple of nights ago I went to the lounge to get a soda and found this strange tribal dance in progress. I should point out it included people from Philadelphia, Saint Mary's in California, Manhattan College and Mexico City. Crazy people.

Ciao!

June 3rd, 2008

2008-06-03T13:25:00.000-07:00

I apologize for not posting yesterday. By the end of the day all I wanted was to go to bed. Unfortunately, I over slept this morning. I didn't even wake up until 9:00 a.m. I was scheduled to lead the prayer service at 8:30 a.m. Fortunately, Suzanne Wilcox stepped up and did my part.
After that sad beginning, today was a little off for me. Perhaps it was because it rained most of the day. Even the pictures I took are pretty fuzzy. But I'll post anyhow so you can see how I saw the day.

This is Brother John Cantwell from Austrailia. His presentation was titled: History and Current Reality: The Lasallian World 1680-2008. It included the most brilliant instructional use of powerpoint I've ever seen and provided an excellent historical analysis of the events surrounding the development of Lasallian education.

This is Br. Pedro Gil from Mexico. He presentation was: The Brothers of the Christian Schools 1680-2008. As the title indicates, he talked about the impact on the Brothers of various historical events and helped us understand how those events could be interpreted today.

This is Paul hard at work.

You will notice Sue to the left of this picture. She's in a group dialogue with Haifa Kuncar from Bethlehem University and Eric Welch from Christian Brothers University in Memphis.

In this photo is Ed Twoniak from Saint Mary's College in California, Robert Tang from DeLasalle College of St. Benilde in the Phillipines and Joe Dulak.

As if it wasn't bad enough that I missed morning prayer. I missed evening prayer as well. Joan and I went to the CIL lounge after we straightened up the meeting room for a cappacino. We had a wonderful discussion, but lost track of time. Before we noticed, it was well after 7:00 p.m and not only had we missed prayer, we were late to dinner.

However, the majority of the participants did the same thing. Of the 48 of us, only 7 showed for dinner. Someone today asked if anyone would like to go out for pizza tonight. I guess the answer was a big Yes.

It was nice to have a rather quiet evening. I did some laundry (again), talked to Stanley and organized some paperwork.

If you are reading the blog, please comment from time to time. I'd like to hear from wisdom from the home front!

June 1, 2008

2008-06-01T13:20:00.000-07:00

Today the program officially started today. Everyone arrived safe and sound.

For those of you wondering about Sue McGovern, she did very well and arrived in great form! She and Paul got here about 2:00 this afternoon. We made a cultural trip to the grocery store where Sue got her first lesson in the Roman aversion to large bills. Joe Dulak arrived much earlier, but I didn't see him until tonight. Sr. Jane, Sue, Paul and Joe had dinner at the same table tonight with folks from other US univerisities.

The day went well until we arrived at dinner. Somehow the front desk told the kitchen that we had cancelled dinner. Panic set in. Joan and I were trying to figure out if we had enough Euros between us to buy dinner at McDonalds. Fortunately, the kitchen was able to scramble and made a wonderful dinner. I'm not sure how they did it, but they did an unbelieveable job!

I took a number of photos during dinner and some earlier in the day.

This is Jenny and Maria from Mexico.

This is Jenny and Maria with Maurilio from Mexico city, Fr. Alejandro, and Angelina from Brazil. The man in the background is the mystery man. He's been here all week. He sits alone, never talks to anyone. Tonight we decided that he is a body guard for someone. Popular opinion is that it's me since I'm the one who always sees him when I'm out and about in the city.

This is the social room.

This is our dining room.
This is Suzanne Wilcox posing in front of our mess.
This is Joan Laderous from Mexico City. She provides me with daily doses of sanity and plenty of laughs.
I love this t-shirt.

Here's the tour I took of the computer lab last night.

That is it for tonight. This is a lively group. I must go to bed because it appears I will need my rest!

May 29, 2008

2008-05-30T13:29:00.000-07:00

Hello Friends,

I don't have any pictures to post today. I was too busy working on some last minute details. I had to meet with the hotel manager and the kitchen manager. Some more handouts needed to be made. I met with the head translator (Br. Michael French) to get a final rate for translation services. While that doesn't seem like much, it pretty much kept me busy all day.

I'm grateful that Joan Landeros has arrived. She and I went out for a beer late this afternoon to compare notes. Even though she had very bad jet lag and kept randomly sliping back and forth between English and Spanish, it was fun to hang out for a bit at the little bar down the street.

Two more people arrived today. One from Manhattan College and one from the College of SantaFe. Tomorrow we should have about 10 more arrive. So I will be busy playing hostess.

After dinner Joan, John and I took them out for gelato. I had chocolate/orange and lavendar. That's a good combination for those of you who are planning your next gelato experience. Tomorrow I'm going to try the ginger/cinnamon. That sounds wonderful.

Although the program doesn't officially start until Sunday, it now feels like we're getting in to it. The best part is the interesting people who will be here. On the roster we have 3 from Palestine, 3 from the Phillipines, 1 from France, 3 from Spain, 1 from Haiti, 9 from Mexico, 1 from Brazil, 1 from Kenya and 19 from the US. I'm really looking forward to getting to know everyone. It should be a fun two weeks.

I promise I will take some photos tomorrow. Now it is time for this pilgrim to go to bed.

May 29th...again.

2008-05-29T12:19:00.001-07:00

Hello all!

I see I mis-dated yesterday's post. Can I still blame it on jet lag?

Today was a fairly quiet day. Suzanne became ill and spent most of the day resting. John took her to the doctor this afternoon. It rained most of the day, so I spent most of my time reading. Late this afternoon when the rain had stopped I ventured out to take some photos.

This is a picture of the basement. This is were the magic happens. The book store is here as well as some other somewhat unknown but very important spots.

Like the speak easies! Each language group has their own little speak easy in the basement. This is the one for the English speakers.
This is the one for the French speakers. Notice that fire extinguisher. Apparently things get pretty hot in this little watering hole.

This is the magnolia. If you recall, a couple of days ago I put a photo of its bud in the blog. These flowers are incredibly beautiful!

This is the hall that my room is in. I'm staying in the "religous house" as the hotel folks call it. It's actually the Generalate guest rooms.

This is the front gate of the Generalate. Notice the two gate houses on either side.

The father and son grounds keepers live in the gate houses. The son has raised an entire family in this gate house. I'm pretty sure this house is smaller than my office.

Tonight's video will not be posted. In the middle of making it a large tree branch fell and almost hit me. In reviewing the video, it became apparent that I said a word that is not family friendly. So I've decided to not put the video here. However, if you want to see my brush with death and my response there will be a viewing at a later date.

Tomorrow will be a busy day. It's our last day before large groups of participants begin to arrive. The program doesn't officially start until Sunday, but a number of people come in the day before. That means tomorrow is our last day to do any prep work.

I do intend to get out tomorrow for a gelato. Seriously. I've only had one since I've been here!

Till Tomorrow...

May 29,2008

2008-05-28T13:02:00.000-07:00

Happy Wednesday!

I think we're on the verge of having the major tasks accomplished. Of course I think that every day. This is a picture of where I spend my days. John and Suzanne Wilcox are on the left. I sit on the right. We spend most of our days emailing documents back and forth.

This is a picture of my Roma cat. She is so sweet. She usually finds me when I'm outside and lays beside me or at my feet. If I thought I'd spend a few weeks without cat hair on my clothes, I was wrong. I think she needs a name, but I can't come up with anything original. If you can think of something please add it in the comment section. All ideas are welcome.
This is my evening video. Please forgive the quality. It was about 9:00 p.m. and the sun had set. However, I have a minor obsession with posting videos to this blog. I promise that tomorrow's video will be shot in day light.

Please add a comment if you are following the blog. I'd love to hear from you.

May 27, 2008

2008-05-27T13:47:00.001-07:00

Another crazy busy day preparing for the program. However, I did get for a little bit this afternoon to take some photos.

I really want one of these! I think it's electric. It's the perfect truck for a Menards and compost run.

Birds of Paradise are in full bloom in front of the Generalte.

The magnolias are in full bloom. I took this picture of my fist next to a bud to give you an idea of the size. If it opens tomorrow, I'll take a picture so you can see how beautiful and big it is. Unfortunately I can't provide e-smell. The aroma in the evenings and mornings in amazing!

I have no idea what this is. But, it is really pretty and smells wonderful!

I am hoping to make it off the property tomorrow. So far, I haven't had the time. I'm missing the gelato!!!!

Tonight my Rome cat found me. I was sitting on one of the back picnic tables and all of a sudden she jumped in my lap. I don't know if she remembers me, or if she is this friendly with everyone. In any case it made my evening.

I went to the basement today to see Abrahamo. It is always wonderful to see him. If any of you think of something you need from the bookstore, let me know. I'll have plenty of time in the next two weeks to drop by and pick it up for you.

I had dinner tonight with Br. John Cantwell from Australia. We had a great time. the members of the UMFC will remember how entertaining he is.

For your viewing pleasure a tour of my room. No, I didn't clean for the video as you will soon see.

Until tomorrow.....

May 26, 2008

2008-05-26T10:30:00.000-07:00

The past two days have been really busy. There are many loose ends to tie up and a few projects to complete. However, it feels like we turned a corner today.

My lovely little room now looks like a laundry house with undies hung all over drying. Experience tells me it takes two days for clothes to dry, so I'm getting a jump on it. I've got my laundry rotation figured out. I know everyone is relieved to hear that!!!

I've bumped into Tom Johnson, Michael French, John Cantwell and Claude Rheinhardt in the past couple of days. All names that will be familiar to my UCFM colleagues. The General Council comes to Roma next week, so things are a buzz here to get ready.

My big project today was creating a spread sheet for expenses that includes a conversion of USD to Euros and Euros to USD. Since the exchange rate changes daily, it is a bit of a challenge to figure out how to track expenses given that expenses were budgeted in both currencies but all based on a USD dollar amount.

Here are some pictures you might enjoy.

Hummingbird vine growing on the chapel.

I believe this is jasmine growing on the wall around the Generalate. It smells heavenly!

Wild geranums going wild:

This is me at my most jet lagged on Saturday.

Yes. I said Casha. Like I said. I was very, very jet lagged.

Till next time...

And Away We Go!!!

2008-05-22T12:31:00.000-07:00

As I'm packing for my third trip to Rome in the past year, I'm wondering why it is that I still can't figure out what to take. You'd think I'd know after my two previous trips. Rain jacket? Sandals? Scarves?

Eh, it is what it is.

2007-06-22T13:54:00.000-07:00

2007-06-22T13:52:00.000-07:00

2007-06-20T13:44:00.000-07:00

I go to see the Pope.

2007-06-20T13:21:00.001-07:00

Assisi

2007-06-19T14:18:00.001-07:00

Sunday, Our day of rest.

2007-06-17T06:18:00.001-07:00

A Day of Silence

2007-06-16T14:16:00.001-07:00

So today was our day of silence. We started at 8:30 this morning and remained in silence until mass at 5:00. It was a truly wonderful day. I can't really say that I came up with anything profound in my 8 1/2 hours of reflection. But it was really nice to just be silent.

Tonight we had dinner on the roof of the Mother House. I took the picture above of the sun setting behind St. Lasalle Chapel from the roof.

Afterwards a big group of us trooped down the streets to our favorite Gelatorium. I had Nutella gelato. A young man came in and ordered a gelto sandwich. They take a bun made of brioche, slice it half way through, fill it with scoops of gelato and top it with whipped cream. It was huge. They also make Nutella crepes. I didn't see one, but can only imagine.

It's officially Day Five.

2007-06-14T14:53:00.000-07:00

Sorry, no pictures tonight. I am so tired I can hardly think. We had a very long day today. It is midnight and I am just getting back to my little room.

We heard from three very good speakers today. In the morning we heard Fr. Alejandro Crosthwaite who spoke on Catholic social teaching. In the afternoon we heard Br. Anton De Roeper who spoke on Catholic social teaching in a Lasallian context. And tonight we met with Br. Alvero Rodriguez the Superior General.

As usual the time between sessions was spent in meetings of special issue groups and with my new and old friends from Bethlehem University. There is so much to discuss and people are ripe with innovative ideas for collaborations.

Tomorrow we have a morning speaker from the Pontifical Council for the Laity. Our afternoon is supposedly free, but I'm meeting with the VP for Academic Affairs for Bethlehem to have lunch and talk about some potential collaborative projects.

Tomorrow night we meet with the Secretary of the Congregation for Catholic Education.

And I need to do laundry.

This experience is so much more than I bargained for. There is so much to digest and reflect on. But right now, I just want to go to bed and put my feet up. They are killing me!!!

A visit to St. John Baptist de La Salle

2007-06-13T05:26:00.000-07:00

The current home of de LaSalle

The reliquary up close. I think I've seen a thousand pictures of this from exactly this angle. For some reason I thought it was very large. It's only about 3' long. If you click in it and enlarge the pictures, you can see the various jewels mounted on the reliquary.

Here's a picture of the actual relics. (I asked and was told it was ok to take a picture..in case you're wondering.) In the picture you can see his skull and what someone suggested was a femer. I think it looked more like vertebrae. I'm going to go back for another look when I have more time.

I took many more pictures in the church, and will load them later. James Miller wasn't there, but there were two more Saint's relics. There are also a couple of stained glass windows I'm trying to get a good photo of. I'll try again later this evening when the light might be a little better.

Gerard Rummery Day!

2007-06-12T13:54:00.000-07:00

I want my cactus to bloom like this!

One of the hundreds of rodent traps around the outside of the Motherhouse. Cats come and check them almost hourly to see if dinner is served.

The most hated sculpture at the Mother House. This sculpure was donated by a school in Switzerland that closed. Every brother I've talked to tells me they wish it had stayed in Switzerland.

The glass behind the statue is actually a glass hallway between two courtyards. The court yard I was in was in the shade. The one on the othe side of the hallway wasn't. Hence the back light.
I'm not sure how many court yards this place has. I can count 5 off the top of my head, but I'm sure there are more. Almost everywhere you turn there's another court yard. Some have scupltures and others don't.

Today Gerard Rummery gave the presentations. He is a Austrailian Brother and one of those historians who makes you feel like you're listening to a wonderful story when he talks about history. His morning topic was: John Baptist de La Salle: Biography in the Cultural, Ecclesial, Educational and Political Context of 17th and 18th Century France and Europe. In the afternoon his topic was: The Brothers of the Christian Schools 1680-2007. It was fascinating and really explained our mission and why the Brothers do things the way they do. It's incredible to think that the mission we follow today is basically unchanged from the original mission of the brothers back in the late 1600's.

Tomorrow we have Br. Tim Coldwell speaking on Lasallian spirituality and Br. Antonio Botana speaking on Lasallian association. I haven't read any of Br. Tim's work, but I have read some of Br. Antonio's work.

I promise to have actual pictures of de La Salle tomorrow. I tried to take them tonight, but the Brothers were in the church praying. I don't think they would have been overly thrilled if I had marched up to the front of the church to snap a picture of the Founder during their interior prayer.

St. Benilde is also there as are a number of other Saints. I think James Miller might be there too. Or at least there is something that has to do with James Miller in the Church. I'll look.

A few more pictures...

2007-06-11T12:20:00.000-07:00

This is on of the many water fountains found all over the property of the Mother House. They are very popular with the birds. They like to sit below them and try to catch drips of water as they fall.

This is Casa Delasalle where I am staying. It is located on the back of the property. The pink building to the right is a big controversy. The brothers sold that property to a developer to build housing for low income people. The man was running some sort of scam and is now in prison. The building was never finished and is a eye sore for all of Rome...or so it is said by the Mayor of Rome.

Tonight's dinner was rissoto. It was very good. I didn't leave the property today. We worked through our afternoon break.

I had lunch with members of the Phillipines delegation, dinner with the French delegation and a cigarette break with the Palestinian delegation. Our translator does a good job, but of course everything is a little behind. And I get tired of wearing the headphones. At my work table today English, Spanish, Italian, Phillipino were spoken.

Tomorrow promises to be a good day. Br. Gerard Rummery is meeting with us. He's kind of the rock star of Lasallian teaching. He's an elderly Austrailian brother who is the narrator of a video that I use for teacher training.

Gelato makes everything better.

2007-06-10T13:20:00.001-07:00

Long day. Our meetings officially began at 5:00 with a Mass in English and Spanish. Afterwards we had a social and then dinner. Because I know certain people are interested, they served little sandwiches with brie and dill or basil at the social - and of course wine. For dinner we had antipasta as a first course. The second course was pasta with garlic and pancette, the third course was beef with peas and a type of pesto.

For desert, Br. Bob, Valerie from Winona and I went out for gelato. I had lime and chocolate.

Now I'm home and getting ready for bed. I don't have new picture to post, but will take some tomorrow.

Oh the flowers!

2007-06-10T06:23:00.000-07:00

I wandered around the grounds this afternoon and took some pictures of flowers. I don't know what that one is above, but I have seen it at Linders.

This is a little green house on the property. Those are grape vines on the trellis.

The gardenia trees are in full bloom. The fragrence was the first thing to greet me this morning!

I'll have many more pictures of flowers. They are everywhere!

Day Two

2007-06-10T06:03:00.000-07:00

This is the Generalate or the Mother House as they call it. The balcony above the apartment of the Superior General.

It is a beautiful day in Roma. I got up really late (about 9:00) and took a walk along Via Aurellia. I managed to get lost, but found my way back to Casa Delasalle eventually.

I met up with Br. Bob and went with him on a "supplies" mission to the local grocery store. I bought some laundry detergent (or at least I think it is) and got lectured by the check out lady because I gave her a 10eu to pay for something that cost 1,50 eu.

We got back at 12:45, just in time for my first lunch at the Mother House. First course: fresh vegetables, lettuce and bread. Second Course: pasta in a red sauce with fresh grated parmesean. Third course: roasted pork and potatoes. And of course wine...in a huge plastic pitcher. It was all very good. And that's not the wine talking!

2007-06-09T02:24:00.001-07:00

This is my room.

And so it begins...

2007-06-09T01:40:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my Roman Holiday. So far it has been interesting, but not exactly a whole lot of fun.

My lovely ankles will attest to the length and of the day!

I started out yesterday at the Mpls. airport with getting hit on by a TSA employee. Apparently they hire really creepy people with bad judgement to keep us all safe.

On the flight from Mpls to Newark, I was surrounded by teeth pickers. Not just random getting the spinach out of one tooth with a tooth pick. These two people had big plastic dental tools that gouged in between their teeth and brought out big blobs of matter. It was possibly one of the grossest displays I've ever seen. Even weirder, the two perps weren't even together! There must be a whole underground cult of teeth pickers.

In the Newark airport I got hit on again. Honestly, I can't even remember the last time I was hit on before Friday. I actually had a little argument with myself if I was over reacting, but after considering it for a while I decided my first instict was right. (See when you travel alone you have to be your own consigliari.) Anyhow, the second character was a police Sargent from some suburb of Newark who was behind me going through security. He followed me to my gate and sat and talked my ear off for an hour or so. I think he thought I was flirting with him because I couldn't understand his accent and kept leaning closer so I could hear what he was saying more clearly. Actually, I'm still not certain what he was talking about most of the time. The Jersey was pretty thick.

On the flight from Newark to Rome I sat beside a lovely elderly couple. The man had moved to the US from Italy in 1956 when he was 18. He still has and had a great Italian accent. He tried to teach me Italian. They were a sweet couple.