Pentecost Sunday With The Pope

I have thus far successfully restrained myself from posting here any of the Rome photos from the Ss. Simon and Jude Youth Group Facebook page, because I know how wonderful Laurent’s own pics will be when she returns — but today I can’t hold back! Our pilgrims received such a great blessing, with the aid of our wonderful Father Matt Henry (who is currently studying in Rome at the Pontifical North American College) and Sisters at the North American College- Casa Santa Maria – tickets to attend the Papal Mass on Pentecost Sunday inside St. Peter’s Basilica.  And, not only were they able to attend, but it was also Fr. Matt’s 30th birthday.  And not only was it Fr. Matt’s 30th birthday, but he also was able to concelebrate  the mass with Pope Francis!  I know that every time a priest celebrates the Holy Eucharist it is a blessing and a privilege – but it had to be a pretty neat birthday present to concelebrate with the Pope!

Anyway, here are a few of the images from today, and I just can’t wait for Laurent’s return on Tuesday, to see and hear so much more.

I especially thank Jen Pitera for leading our pilgrims on this journey,

for her care and concern for our youth, for her expertise, and for these and all the other great photos she has shared from this incredible pilgrimage.

We are so blessed at Ss. Simon and Jude by her tremendous gifts!!