This day was amazing. We attended the Mass of Nations which featured the choirs from the American and Irish Federations of the Pueri Cantores. The Mass was celebrated in the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls where the tomb of St. Paul is found under the main altar. Those who visited the altar were able to view both the tomb and the shackles that bound the martyr. It was an awesome experience for the students and parents alike. The acoustics in the basilica amplified the sounds of the choral aspects of the Mass. Many were moved to tears during the singing of Silent Night and Adeste Fidelis. The Homily was delivered by an inspiring priest from San Antonio, Florida who reminded us of the call of young Christian men and women to be like St. Paul and spread the Word of God. After Mass, we were addressed by a bishop who reminded the students of the celebration of the twelve days of Christmas that are locally celebrated.
Next the groups passed through the gypsy brigades and drove to Piazza Navona where we visited the Christmas market and many made the short trek to the Pantheon.
Following our free time in Piazza Novena the group joined the choir from St. Cecilia Catholic School Choir for a concert at St. Cecilia Church in Trastevere. The students performed beautifully and the public who joined this free concert enjoyed the sounds of Christmas joy that came from each choir.
Dinner was back at the religious housing which worked out perfectly for our gangs of teenagers who loved running the halls and spending time with one another…many of the parents were left in the bar area so we hope to make our 6:30 breakfast call tomorrow morning.
Off to sleep to prepare for our audience with Pope Benedict XVI tomorrow at the Sala Nervi.
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