Feb 13 - Art of Conversation
Today was an interesting day as we concluded our business in Rome. This morning we met with the Congregation for Bishops and the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith. Both of these groups are sort of like “departments” in the organization of the ministry of the Vatican, or, you might imagine them as “Department of Bishops” and “Department for Doctrine and Discipline.” Each was interesting in its own way, and I felt like I actually knew what was being discussed at this level, as I am much more familiar with these two areas. There is a feeling of mutuality at this level and I thoroughly enjoyed the discussions. Following these meetings, which were at the Vatican offices (and I have to tell you it is pretty cool to simply walk past those brightly clad Swiss guards at the gates to the “back stage” area of the Vatican complex,) we had a brief time to walk around St Peter’s Square and simply enjoyed the sunshine. First time we’ve seen it on the trip! We had lunch at a little restaurant not too far away, “Mamma’s” (no kidding,) served family style with lots of bread, pasta and good Italian wine. And Mamma served us, not letting any serving plate return to the kitchen empty. “Padre, mange, mange” (Father, eat, eat!) was heard many times. Somehow, though, she never addressed me! J It was also nice to have some more personal time with Monsigneur Mathias Turk, who has been our guide and liaison while we have been in Rome. Msgr. Turk is from Bavaria, Germany. Need I say more?
After lunch we were given a brief tour of the Vatican museum, which Roger, Andy and I had toured 5 years ago on our vacation. Not much has changed, and it was kind of fun to revisit some of the statues we saw 5 years ago. Plus, I always learn so much more with a good guide. Finishing in the Sistine Chapel is always a treat, and this time was no different. Above, on the ceiling Michelangelo painted lying on his back upon scaffolding, is the whole history of Christian faith. It is the whole Bible contained in one room practically, and each time I have seen it, I have seen something different and learned something more. And so the tour concluded and we were ready to conclude the day, and yet I kept wondering if I will ever return to the Vatican. I was here in 1985 and didn’t think I’d see it again…then in 2005. Now, in 2010, I did not have a chance to drop a coin in the Trevi Fountain and make the traditional wish for my return to Rome, but I did drop one on the case covering relics in the basilica of St Paul Outside the Walls. (If it stays on the cover of the case, you get a wish – mine slid right off!) Time will tell.
As I pondered that, we filed out of the museum and onto our bus, and came back to the Domo to pack and prepare for tomorrow’s travel to Geneva. We received some information about the groups we will meet with there, the World Council of Churches, the Lutheran World Federation and the World Reformed Association. We leave in the morning and connect in Paris (I plan to eat SOMETHING in the airport in Paris – never, ever been to France!) and then arrive in Geneva tomorrow early evening.
So ends our stay in the Eternal City. It has been quite the adventure to get these blog notes posted, but it has been part of the challenge of being here. And you all know how I love puzzles. Blessings on your worship tomorrow on the Day of the Transfiguration. I will be with you in prayer (ok, 8 hours before you…) as I look forward to Lent with a whole new perspective. Blessings, Pastor Susan.