rosary in the vatican gardens

Rosary in the Lourdes Grotto

Dear Family and Friends,

Last night we went to the Lourdes Grotto in the Vatican Gardens to pray the rosary with a group of Regnum Christi members. (Regnum Christi is the group of people who share the same spirit and mission as me and all my fellow brothers and priests) It was a beautiful night, and there’s always something magical about the Vatican Gardens. We passed by Pope Francis’ house (see pictures with his windows pointed out) and then went near to Pope Benedict’s house.

Pope Francis' House from the front

Pope Francis' House from the west side

The Lourdes Grotto is on the top of the Vatican Hill, and was a favorite spot of both Pope John Paul and Pope Benedict. Pope Francis has already visited it too. We prayed the rosary in French, Italian, English, Spanish, and Portuguese – quite the mix! It was really awesome to be there united in prayer with all our good friends. Afterwards Cardinal DePaolis, a good friend and guide, gave some beautiful words.

Cardinal DePaolis giving some words

Here’s a picture in front of the grotto of the four of us from my group here in Rome who will be ordained deacons June 29^th. From right to left: Brother Ricardo from Argentina, Brother Esteban from Mexico, Brother François from France, and somebody who jumped into the picture last minute! We’ve been through a lot together, and we’re hoping to be able to stay in touch as one goes to Spain, another to Brazil, another to France, and me to the US.
 

me and my fellow deacons-to-be

If you feel inspired, say a prayer for us four as we take our third-to-last exam tomorrow!

God bless,

Brother Kevin

www.cblstones.com