The Vatican

Today, we went on an afternoon tour of the Vatican. We walked through the Sistine Chapel, where Michelangelo frescoed two masterpieces: the ceiling with the stories of the creation of the world (1508-1512) and the end wall with the Last Judgment (1536-1541)...think Matthew 25. Now we understand why Martin Luther was all in a dither about the indulgences that were being sold to Christian peasants throughout Europe to fund the building of the largest church in the world! The Catholics on our tour are very excited about the new Pope, Francis.  If he is true to his predecessor, Francis of Assissi, he will call the Church to its serving roots, rather than its preoccupation with pomp and ritual! Pr. Marta had a conversation with him on that and other topics. We also visited St. Mary's Basilica of the Angels and the Martyrs earlier this morning. This ancient church was very moving....paintings and sculptures of those who lost their lives for the faith, like St. John who was beheaded for his  faith. Many of the younger generations of tourists who visit these sites have no faith connection. But, to the faithful, you can tell what "a religious experience it is for them!" A young couple listened into our conversation over dinner. "Lean into God's amazing love affair with humanity, dear ones, and know life!" We've also enjoyed several conversations with police officers...who are more than happy to pose so that Captain Cassell of the City of Henderson Police Department will have great pictures of law enforcement agents in other countries! One even gave Pr. Marta a badge from his uniform (attached by Velcro). She took two pictures, because other buddies want to join them for the photo!  Tomorrow we travel to Pompeii and Naples for the day. Blessings and peace, dear ones. KEEP THE FAITH!

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