Trinità dei Monti

Last week, Miriam had told me she went to a chanted mass, in French, given by 'La Fraternità monastica di Gerusalemme.' which she found very inspiring. This week, for a change of scenery, and because I was very much looking forward to hearing this chanted mass.(This particular church 'Chiesa Trinità dei Monti' is at the top of the Spanish Steps. So after climbing 534,875.45 steps...) I entered this really quaint church at the top of the steps, which I am very glad I went through the challenge of getting to it.

That had to be one of the most contemplative and beautiful masses I have ever attended. There was no rushing. All the readings were slow and meditated. Everytime one of the brothers or sisters spoke, they didn't even have to try to be emphatic because you can tell they were so happy to be there. It was so incredible to watch! (I thinkI probably had a ridiculously large smile the entire time on my face...)

There were a few things in particular that REALLY spoke to me.
Music - Everything was beautifully chanted, perfectly in tune, and not overbearing. It was like paying to hear professional musicians, only five worlds better because the presence of the holy spirit was so evident in that church.
Offering of the gifts- When it was time to offer the gifts, the sisters came around to all the children in the church and asked them to come with them. When I looked back to see what was going on, the sisters had these children hold a little red candle, which after the presentation of the gifts, was offered to the Blessed Mother. (Can you imagine??? So special...)
Communion - Communion took a very long time. Here's why: When the priest was about to give someone communion, he would look at them and say, 'Le corps du Christ', in a very slow fashion, with this light in his eyes, this happiness that I can only translate into 'Look! You are about to recieve Jesus! Isn't that AMAZING??' I was blown away at how every time someone went to receive it was such a personal, intimate meeting and an explanation of its importance all in one.

For me, that culmination of togetherness, that desire to bring every parishoner in on the celebration of the mass, that joy and dedication, crossed language boundaries. An incredible mass given by, quite evidently, incredibly holy, devoted people, which I can't wait to part of again.

You see? Even though God gives us things that are trying (which can maybe be the understatement of the year) and we get so angry and so confused, I just think to myself how important it is to also take time and be so appreciative of those moments of beauty, when you really feel special, because you have been given the chance to really be a part of such sacrifice, which is the mass.

Tomorrow, I am off to Santa Cecilia to talk to one of the professors I have been in contact with. I will keep you updated. Until then, I love you all and you are in my constant prayers. God bless you.