Greetings from Casa O'Toole (Rome, IT)

Hopefully, this will be part one of two blog postings for today.  The wireless connection here is not strong and is inconsistent in being available.  I wanted to get this post out while the connection is working.  I will try to keep the routine of a daily blog posting, but it will always be dependent on the wireless connection.  I have some photos to share, and hopefully I can attach them to my posting for later tonight.

The day began with all of the priests of the sabbatical program celebrating Mass in one of the crypt chapels of St. Peter's Basilica.  Interestingly, it was the same chapel I concelebrated Mass during one of the Jesuit Treasurers' meetings here about 10 years ago.  What is more interesting is that it was the chapel dedicated to St. Casimir as a gift from the people of Lithuania.  That makes 2 Lithuanian coincidences in the past 3 days.  From Mass we were taken to the very significant creche within the basilica to have a group photo taken.  If I get an online copy, I will include it a future blog.  The rest of the day was and will be an orientation to the program and the North American College.  The sun is shining; the weather is warm; and all indications are that it will be a terrific 3 months here at Casa O'Toole.

God willing, I will be back later with a few pictures to share with you.  Ciao!