Today, Tuesday, July 23rd, we began our day with Holy Mass at the chapel of La Madonna del Parto (Our Lady of Childbirth) in the crypt of St. Peter's Basilica. Father Bechina was our celebrant who gave us a beautiful homily on the Holy Family, reminding us that we are all members of this "holy family" called the Church. We then ate a quick breakfast at a nearby café, after which we proceeded to the Congregation for Education where Father Bechina holds the position of Undersecretary for the Congregation.
Our time with Father at this meeting was very informative. He explained the history behind and the distinction between the Holy See and the Vatican States. The Holy See is wherever the Holy Father is. For example, when he was in Avignon, that is where the Holy See was. Vatican City is the geographical entity where governmental business takes place. All diplomatic relations are between the Holy See and the particular nation.
As Father completed this historical presentation, he described those who assist the Pope. In addition to the Secretary of State, there are nine congregations that help the Pope fulfill his mission of serving the Church by strengthening unity and faith among Her members. The head (or prefect) of each congregation is a Cardinal, under him is the secretary, the undersecretary, and then other departments according to language and offices. In addition to the congregations there are eleven councils.
While discussing Catholic Education in the United States, Father discussed with us the importance of strengthening the people of faith in universities since we cannot change or force wills. He spoke about how ONE person of faith in difficult situations can have an amazing effect. The Saints are good examples of this.
The rest of the day we were on our own. We met together for our daily holy hour at 4 p.m. followed by cena. Discussions at cena are inspiring and uplifting. The sharing that is done among us truly "strengthens the brethren."
Please pray for my sister, Mary Sarah, who had her 4th child last week. She is suffering from postpartum cardiac myopathy and her heart is operating at only 20%. The doctors are hopeful for her recovery but it will be a long road.
ReplyDeleteThey said she would have died if she had remained at home (thankfully her stubborn husband insisted she go to her Doc). Please pray that Our Lady of Childbirth continue to protect her and her newborn.
Thank you!
Dear Rachel,
ReplyDeleteThank you for your prayer request. We will be praying for your Sister. Please keep us updated.
God bless you.