Institute for Pastoral Initiatives News
When in Rome, do as Flyers do
By John LeComte
A threat of thunderstorms loomed. The forecast for Rome was not promising. Anxiously checking her large cell phone for the latest weather update, Sr. Angela Ann Zukowski had emailed me saying she was worried. And for good reason. Zukowski has organized this University of Dayton pilgrimage for eight years, and knows mother nature can dampen one's spirits.
"I feared we would stand in the rain greeting the Pope," said Zukowski, who's leading the fifteen students on this twelve day pilgrimage from Assisi to Rome. "But the weather was perfect."
Just take a look at the picture Sister snapped (below in photo gallery) of Pope Francis in his popemobile. Zukowski has witnessed and met a few Pontiffs over the last 40 years. In 2001, she received the Pro Ecclesia et Pontifice medal from Pope Saint John Paul II for distinguished service to the Catholic church. Sr. Angela Ann was also a member of the Pontificate Council for Social Communication (Vatican) from 1994-2002. Her contacts and reputation in this part of the world create quite a unique and memorable experience for these Chaminade Scholars.
Take a look at the photos below. How about a private meeting and discussion with Bishop Paul Tighe? Tighe is secretary of the Vatican's Pontifical Council for Culture and the man behind Pope Francis' social media strategy.
There was also an exclusive tour of what was once Vatican radio, which could be the last such tour according to Zukowski, since the broadcasts have ceased in the now empty studio.
"With the advent of social media, changes are underway here," said Zukowski.
Then there's nationally known historian and television personality Dr. Elizebeth Lev, who guided students on a four hour power tour, including stops at Saint Peter's Basilica and Vatican museum. The students will also be part of their own private mass at St. Peter's on Thursday. (Rome is six hours ahead of our Dayton time)
What an experience for these young flyers. As Zukowski wrote in her email to me. "This is spectacular!"
Twelve days, Fifteen students, One pilgrimage.
