By Anna/Herald Malaysia
Nov 6 2023
Oct 9–15 2023
1. What are my significant moments?
a) Entering the Basilica of St Peter for the first time
We started off the second week with Mass held at the Basilica of St Peter. O my Lord! As I entered the basilica, I was mesmerised by the arts. It is a huge place, and every corner has significant history. I did not have the chance to go around because the assembly started immediately after the Mass. However, I had the chance to go in again on Saturday afternoon. We will always have our Mass at the Basilica of St Peter every time we start a new module and the Chair of St Peter is located there.
b) Pilgrimage to San DomitillaCatacomb
The catacombs are underground passageways used for religious practice and burials(Wikipedia).This was an important event for me. It was a pilgrimage for all of us who participated in the synod. It was a journey that reminded us of the people of faith who lived a long time ago. I am so amazed at the steadfastness of our Catholic faith, and I am thankful to all the martyrs who kept their faith till the death.
c) Grappa
Grappa is an Italian alcoholic drink. Being at the Synod needs a lot of concentration and energy. There are days that I felt so tired andhaving a little of this will give me a good and sound sleep.
d) Voted as the rapporteur
I was voted by my group to be the rapporteur. I will report a short outcome of the group to the larger group. I am used to sharingin bigger groups in Sabah. But this one is special because it is happeningat the Synod.
e) Me casa
I stayed at the ‘Felice Prinetti’ Holiday Home run by the Congregation of the Daughters of St Joseph. I felt that I (all of us) was ‘spoiled’ with good food and hospitality. We are served three courses for lunch and dinner. There is definitely no chance for me to lose weight here. It is also a good place to reflect and pray. Every morning, we participate at the Mass held in the chapel before going to St Paul VI’s Hall. The Mass on Sunday is also held here.
2. What are my challenges?
There were some nights that I could not sleep because of the neighbour’s dogs’ barking. If I open my window, I can immediately see them. It was quite irritating. But I tried my best to get some sleep. If not, I would be tired during the synod.
3. What God’s invitation for me?
This week was amazing especially having the pilgrimage to San Domitilla Catacomb. God’s invitation for me is to always fix my eyes on Him in whom my faith depends on from the beginning to the end.Hebrew 12:2. – Herald Malaysia
