His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI processing out from Vespers at St. Peters. 


It was quite an experience to be one of over 1000 gathered to pray together in such an historic place.

Sr. Salete's Silver Jubilee

Sister Mary Salete da Roche is celebrating 25 years of Religious profession.  It is both a priveledge and a joy to be here in Rome to celebrate with her.

Sister Salete is the 4th child of 12 children born in Aracoiaba de Serra, Brazil.  She attended public school growing up and was familiar with the sisters working in the sacristy at church and at the school.  At age 14, she helped care for her grandfather who had become bed-ridden.  Sister Salate did not know it at the time but God was preparing her for a life of service.

At the age of 22, Sister entered Saint Scholatica Priory and the community of Missionary Benedictines in Sorocaba, Brazil.  She made her first profession on 2 February 1985.  Sister Salate is a nurse by profession but on 11 May 2008 she was appointed General Councilor here in Rome. 

Join with me as we wish Sister Mary Salate many more years of sevice and pray that she continues to be blessed by God's grace.

Blessing on your special day....
Sister John Paul

The Vatican Museum

Yesterday we went to the Vatican Museum.  Words are quite inadequate to capture the essence of this wonderful place.  I will post a few pictures but encourage anyone who is in Rome to take the time to go to this wonderful place.                                                                                                                          To the left is a painting by Chilandaios of the "Vocation of Peter and Paul"              

  A fresco preserved from the early century..                                                                                                                                                                                           Look at the detail.                                

 On the side I will post some more pictures for your enjoyment....God Bless your day.