Repurposed

As we toured the city of Rome today we were overwhelmed with the beauty, architecture, and historical significance of the sites. On our way to the Colosseum we passed 2 marble columns that stand as a memorial to 9/11 where the Italians remember this event each year. What an honor to think that our Italian friends mourn along with us.

During our visit to the Colosseum we learned many fun facts like the reason that part of it is missing is because after it fell out of use materials were removed and repurposed for others buildings. It was built in less than 10 years and funded by the loot taken from Jerusalem when the Romans invaded and destroyed the city.

Walking a short distance to Palatine Hill and the forum we were amazed and almost overwhelmed by the vastness of the ancient temples, gardens, pools, fountains, homes, churches, and triumphant arches. All of which had a story to tell about life in Rome. At the Arch of Titus, where one relief depicted the “triumphal entry” of the Romans with the captured Jews, Mike reminded the group of 2 Corinthians 2:14 “But thanks be to God, who in Christ always leads us in triumphal procession, and through us spreads the fragrance of the knowledge of him everywhere.”

After lunch the group was treated to a visit to St Paul’s church which is built over the site where it is believed he buried. Breathtaking hardly describes the magnificent building and grounds. A feeling of reverence fell on us all.

Catacombe San Callisto was the final stop of the day. This underground burial place for early Christians has tunnels that wind around miles of area. It was felt that everyone deserved a final resting place so each person was entombed in his/her own hand carved spot. Wall paintings reflected Biblical stories and Christ as their Savior. Picture taking was not allowed as this is considered a holy place.

Returning to the hotel in late afternoon gave everyone some free time to explore the city on their own and reflect on the impact of how Christianity’s spread throughout the Roman Empire has impacted us today.