Leaving Rome

This afternoon after the main meal we are leaving for Manziana to begin our renewal program joining fifteen Marists at their International Spirituality Center; there are five Marianists who will be participating in this English program. The Third Age program (ages 65-80) also are in French and Spanish languages. Bros. Jose DeGorio and Bob Maruyama comes from Honolulu,Hawaii; Bro. Charlie Wanda hails from Dayton,Ohio and Bro. Richard Schrader is from the state of Texas living in San Antonio. It has been great to have this week exploring the historical and religious sites of Rome together. Yesterday, the GA and Seminary communities celebrated two birthdays at the main meal at 1:00 p.m. They really know how to celebrate here in Rome with lots of pasta, salad, meat, wine, brandy, coffee and conversations. Every Sunday both communities gather together for the main meal. Eucharist is held at the GA chapel for the members of the community and for the local parishoners; also the seminarians go out to the local parishes too. The seminarians are responsible for the Sunday meal and light dinner. The fellowship and hospitality of our Marianist brothers is very good to experience here in Rome.