The Pope's Crib

Salut!

Today was definately a highlight of my time here in Italy. We visited St. Peter's Basilica followed by the tomb of the pope's. We took a private Scavi tour down into the 1st century crypts. It was quite amazing though somewhat eary. I guess walking next to dead people in a small, humid cave isn't my thing. Regardless of my claustrophobia it was a historical tour that was well-worth the effort and extra sweat. Although, seeing Pope John Paul II's grave site was especially moving.

Instead of telling you the in-depth history, I think I will just post some pictures. I have learned SO much in the past three weeks that usually my brain is completely fried by the time I sit down to write these blogs. One day, you'll all receive a little (when I say little I mean big and when I say big I mean incredibly lengthy and possibly boring) history lesson--don't worry. You may not listen, but it will make me feel temporarily smart. I would appreciate it. :)

Tommorrow is Jesuit day! Yay! I love the Jesuit order. We are visiting churches around Rome dedicated to the Jesuits. We will get some history on the roots of our school (Seattle University) and the impact they have had on the moral, philosophical, and personal education of the world. Part of the reason I love the Jesuit order is because of its open liberalism. It is by far the most liberal organization of the Catholic church focused on personal growth, education and acceptance.

I miss you all. Love you.

Alex

CROSS PICTURE: An interesting note about this cross. This cross is from Christopher Columbus' boat. No joke. That is what I love about Europe--so much history! Never would we see something as priceless as that in the Untied States. I mean, the wood from the boat Columbus used to 'sail the ocean blue' in 1492!? Just hanging on the wall in St. Peter's!? Crazy. There is also a movement to cantanize (make a saint) Columbus. This is interesting because there is such immense controversy over who Columbus was. Was he really a man who discovered the new world or merely a man who 'discovered' the world and then killed thousands of natives? Personally, it would seem quite ignorant to cantanize a man who took away the personal rights of many innocent people.

HIGH ALTAR PICTURE: This is the high altar built over (well, 8ft to the right) of St. Peter's tomb. We visited his tomb in the Scavi tour. The altar was built by Bernini.