historical visit of Ireland and Italy.

A sightseeing tour of Dublin included Trinity College, St. Patrick's Cathedral and the book of Keels -- a handwritten new testament by the monks of the ninth century. Later the group proceeded by motor coach to Glendalough (St. Kevin's monastery) founded in the sixth century. Here the Irish guide related the profound influence the monasteries and the pilgrimage culture had on Irish religion and life.

As pilgrims moved from place to place, local people offered hospitality, and all in the group repeatedly remarked on the generous hospitality of the Irish.

The Irish love visitors and they were always ready to relate their present life to the life of faith and to the great traditions of the monasteries. It was from this very Island that Western Europe received its Christian faith from the Irish monks who traveled extensively in Europe.

As pilgrims the group stopped almost daily at some important church or cathedral to celebrate the Eucharist and to learn about the historical and religious impact the particular Cathedrals played in the life of the community. The visit to St. Brigid's Cathedral in Kildare (fifth Century) and later to the Rock of Cashel once the seat of the Kings of Munster (4-12 centuries) proved enlightening. St. Patrick baptised King Aengus in 450 AD at Cashel. Castles and monasteries speak eloquently of the history of Ireland and particularly of the wars and strifes between the English and the Irish. The interests in the group led them to the internationally famous crystal works at Waterford, and a few Bermudians spoke with a gentleman who visits the Island quite frequently. Of great interest to all Bermudians is the well displayed Rugby Ball in Crystal -the symbol of the International Classic Rugby Association Competition played in Devonshire.

Then onward to Cork, St. Finbarr's Cathedral and to Blaney Castle where many of our Bermudians kissed the famous stone in hopes of becoming more loquacious or simply asked to be able to spin a yarn or two with Irish passion and vigour. The visit to Killarney brought the group to the most magical and mystical area known as the Ring of Kerry. Artists and writers have drawn much inspiration from mountains and vales, landscapes and seascapes.

Museums of arts and crafts dot the entire region and Ireland is indeed as enchanting as its beautiful people.

As the pilgrimage of faith and folklore progressed, we experienced a most enlightening historical account of Ireland at Bunratty. The story was told in song, dance, music and act. The restored castle proved to be a magnificent venue to recount the tales of Irish growth in faith and culture. As generous portions of mediaeval food was served, the actors regaled us with song and dance recounting tales of old.

Now to our final trek to Knock (Mary's Hill) in Galway where Mary appeared. At this very sight Pope John Paul II came to commemorate the centenary in 1979.

Knock is indeed a most impressive religious site, but unfortunately the day was marred by that Irish mist called rain.

From start to finish, the very knowledgeable Irish Guide pointed out breweries and distilleries that played such an important part in Irish History and social life. We have a lot of churches per capita in Bermuda, and the Irish will boast of its pubs, churches, monasteries and castles.

On October 3, the group enjoyed a wonderful visit to Assisi. All marvelled at the restored frescoes damaged in the earthquake of 1997 and dating back to 1421-1497. A visit to the Church of St. Clare and to the Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels was most enjoyable and enlightening.

Large numbers of pilgrims from many countries were gathering in anticipation of the feast of St. Francis, October 4. Rome the eternal city, was beautifully decorated for the millennium. Monuments, churches, Government buildings were beautifully restored to receive pilgrims and the groups visit to the Vatican was memorable.

The large papal audience and prayer service of some 60,000 people featured the presence of pilgrims from some 30 countries. Bermuda was mentioned specifically thanks to our Bishop, Robert Kurtz. Each visiting bishop had the privilege to ask two parishioners to greet the Pope after the audience, and the group unanimously chose Joe and Linda Amaral.

This was indeed the peak experience for Joe and Linda and for all from Bermuda. After the audience, the group had the opportunity to visit the museums and wonderful restored ceiling of the Sistine Chapel.

Some people had to return to Bermuda on October 5, but the rest of the group finally moved on to Turin, northern Italy, to visit and pray at the shroud of Christ. This was indeed touching and spiritually uplifting for all. The Pope himself had already visited a short time ago.

The group was fortunate to view the Shroud for the last public viewing would take place on October 22. It will be put away to avoid over exposure to the elements.

This concluded the itinerary and the other pilgrims returned to Bermuda on October 7, happy, renewed, and a little fatigued.

By Pat Aiello of St. Anthony's Church Papal Audience: Joe and Linda Amaral meet with the Pope on their visit to Rome in October.