On the other side of Rome

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Last month I wrote on the topic: Anticipation, because I was heading to Rome for a global gathering of members of the Order of Preachers.  I promised to share some of that experience here.

I had to let that my first trip to Rome was not going to be as a tourist.  A bit of extra time before the conference started and aspects of the schedule did allow for some sites/sights to be seen.

With my travel companion, we had just enough time to see St Peter’s Basilica and even able to get into the crypt church below the altar.  By sheer chance we ran into two other Dominicans and spent the rest of the evening with them. 

Most evenings of the Mission Congress concluded at various worship sites including the main church for the Order, Santa Sabina, the Great Synagogue of Rome and more.

What does stand out for me is the new and renewed connections with Dominicans from around the globe.  On this side of the Rome experience, I carry the conversations and learnings I had with so many of my sisters and brothers in St. Dominic.

When you have had significant experiences what stays with you?  What will you carry into your one wild unfolding life?

Roberta Popara, O.P.
North Palm Beach FL

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