What a lovely day! My feet hurt after 18.5 miles, yes, but I got to take my first step to Rome, find my first way sign, get lost— though only briefly, thank the good Lord — see the non-scenic side of Italy, notice that Italian wineries look a lot like those in California (who is copying whom?) and wander through ancient ruins of ancient Luni, which flourished for 1,400 years, and went extinct for the last 800. It’s hard for the archeologists to know when in those many years something was built. Italy is OLD! It puts all my building plans for our youth center into perspective, doesn’t it?
I saw the mountain where the pure white Carrara marble is mined, and walked on back country roads cobbled in white castoff chunks.
I’ve journeyed from the region of Liguria into the northern stretches of Tuscany, and many of the children are blond. Should I be surprised? My Sicilian grandmother had limpidly blue eyes.
I had the chance to pray for your intentions at a locked church, an open one, a cathedral and two shrines to the Blessed Mother, one dedicated to, of all things, Our Lady of the Grapes, located high above Massa amidst the vineyards — both peculiar and fitting.
I’m sitting in the square in front of the cathedral watching the naturally affectionate way Italians greet one another, and loving it. Is there ever enough kindness and enthusiasm in the world?
I am glad that you faired so well on today’s journey. Italy is very old, indeed! The countryside through which you are traveling is stunning. So many places and things to see.
We wish many more days of satisfying travel and wonderful places to pray the intentions of your parishioners.
I am enjoying following your journey on Google maps.
Be safe and enjoy!
Blessings to you dear Fr. Patrick 🙏🏻
Bill and Barb
Ciao Fr. Patrick!
We just returned from our Camino Portuguese Espiritual Variente. 225 miles in 14 days. We will pray for you and Fr. Jim’s safe journey.
May the light and love of God bless and direct your steps.
Bom Día!
Linda Smith
I will enjoy this journey with you vicariously !
Well done, good and faithful servant.
Thank you for your very visual reflections.
Our Lady of the Grapes, wow!’
Dear Fr. Patrick,
I’m finally able to get on this site and follow you on your journey. It seems like you are on a good start. Thank you for bringing our intentions with you. We are so blessed. I’ve just received news that the priest who baptized me passed away recently. Please include him in your prayers. His name is Fr. Matthew Dinh Viet Hoang. May Jesus continues to walk with you and bless you on the rest of your pilgrimage, Father.
Teresa B.