A Spiritual Adventure

Hi Everyone,

We have now safely checked into our Rome hotel on Via Cavour.  If you wish to reach your loved one you can dial: 011 39 064870270 and ask to be transferred to his/her room.

Assisi was a wonderful journey full of meaningful experiences.  I believe everyone had a moment that will stay in their hearts for many years to come.  A highlight of yesterday was to listen to the Vespri (the San Franciscan monks chanting prayers)...listening to the italian prayers/chats resonated through the entire basilica and gave everyone goosebumps.  A part of the service included what may have been up to 15 minutes of silence...for most us, this was the longest silent, public pause we have ever experienced.  To describe such a thoughtful and profound pause with the day's events fresh in our hears, is truly beyond words.

Highlights included: Guided walking tour of Assisi, candle ceremonies, profound classes, entering into the Basilica of San Francesco, a 2KM pilgrimage from the hotel to upper Assisi, meaningful prayers, yoga by the pool, amazing meals, laughs, jokes and some fun times in between!

We are meeting at 6pm this evening for an evening walking tour of Rome alla Melina.  I plan to show the group all the reasons why I believe Rome is one of the most fantastic places on earth!!! Pictures to follow tomorrow !

Ciao for now !
Melina

A wonderful day in Assisi

First Class / Liturgy in Assisi

Here are some pictures from the first gathering.  Travel pictures are coming tomorrow ! As you can see, everyone is looking happy and lovely (and handsome!).

Looking forward to tomorrow's adventures !

Safe and Sound !

We made it through customs, up the autostrada and have finally arrived in the magical town of assisi.  Despite a long, overnight journey, everyone seems to be in incredibly high spirits.  We have settled into our hotel, attended an afternoon class & liturgy and are looking forward to our dinner (the restaurant tells us that we can look forward to 'a typical dish from Umbria'!!).

If anyone ever has any immediate questions/concerns, I can be reached on my blackberry anytime at : melina@ghardytours.com.  I will be happy to communicate any message you wish for me to convey to the group.

Tomorrow we will walk the path of Saint Francis and learn about the history of the area!

Buona Notte ! 

Roma

Looking forward to meeting everyone at the airport tomorrow.  Bearing in mind that Italy is 6 hours ahead of Canada, please feel free to give me a call if you have any last minute questions: 011 39 3880795934 :)

A DOMANI!
Melina