University of Mary High School Rome Pilgrimage

This morning, we began with a trip outside of Rome to the coastal town of Nettuno. It’s here that there is a special bit of American history. This is the location where around 7,800 Americans are buried who gave their life in the effort to liberate Rome during World War II. Many of the men and women buried here died on the nearby beach of Anzio where the Americans landed and eventually broke through on their way to Rome. We heard many stories of bravery and self-sacrifice and saw a handful of individuals from North Dakota as well. To top it all off, we finished our morning with a visit to see St. Maria Goretti, where Fr. Hill talked about St. Maria Goretti’s witness to the power of forgiveness.

Click 'Read More' to view additional photos.

This afternoon, after a nice lunch, we went to our first major Basillica: Saint Mary Major. This church is filled with many little treasures, including the manger that held Jesus himself! Each student had the chance to pray in front of this incredible relic, and then we ended the day with Mass at the church of Santa Pressede. This church is the burial ground of two sisters, Pressede and Pudentiana, who converted to Christianity and devoted their lives to giving early Christian martyrs a proper burial after being executed for their faith. The Sacristan at this church made a point to go out of his way to tell us how respectful, prayerful, and attentive our students were in Mass. You should be proud of your children! 

Click 'Read More' to view additional photos.