Italy Pilgrimage: Florence, Siena, and Assisi
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On Wednesday, the Italy pilgrims had a full day in Florence that focused on what Florence is most famous for: art, history, culture, and Catholicism. We toured some magnificent churches, saw many famous works of art and learned about artists such as Michelangelo and Donatello.
We also discovered how Florence is in many ways a cultural center of the world with its rich, Catholic history.
Pictured to the right is a view of the city center and Florence's magnificent Cathedral, dedicated to Our Lady.
We also toured and had Mass at the beautiful Santa Croce (Holy Cross) Church, along with much more in Florence.
On Thursday, our group said goodbye to Florence and moved on to Siena, the home of St. Catherine of Siena, who is a Doctor of the Church. We celebrated Mass in the Basilica of St. Dominic where the relic of St. Catherine’s holy head and finger are displayed (her body is in Rome). We then toured the breathtaking Cathedral in Siena, which is pictured here. After some free time enjoying Italian food and the beatiful city piazza (square), we had another special grace. Our tour escort led us to a church that houses a Eucharistic miracle. In 1730, over 300 consecrated hosts were stolen from the Church of St. Francis in Siena. After a few days, the thieves returned them to a neighboring church by placing them in the offering box. After being returned to the Church of St. Francis, the hosts were kept rather than being consumed. The miracle is that all the hosts remained entirely intact even until today, almost 300 years later. There has been no deterioration and many scientific studies have been conducted to confirm their integrity. It is simply supernatural. Our group had the unique privilege of praying in the chapel where these consecrated hosts are kept. Not only that, but a priest of the church allowed for the Blessed Sacrament to be exposed so we could see these miraculous hosts and adore the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist. What a tremendous blessing!
Later on Thursday we departed Siena and made our way to Assisi. Friday was spent experiencing the tranquility of the hometown of St. Francis and St. Clare. We prayed before the tombs of both great saints, witnessed many of their relics (including their clothing and personal belongings), and took in the churches built in their memory, among other churches. We also prayed before the famous "San Damiano Cross," which is the crucifix from which Jesus spoke to St. Francis and said "Rebuild my Church." It is pictured here. The “slogan” of Assisi is “Pace e bene,” which means “Peace and Good.” We have certainly experienced both here. Tomorrow we continue our journey and arrive at the Eternal City of Rome for many more adventures and blessings.