Submitted by Alexandra Evangelist the 2024 Spring program in Rome, Italy…
This weekend is Easter. My family came and we celebrated the holiday. The Pope is a big part of Easter in Roman culture as he delivers services in Vatican city. Friends of mine were able to touch his hand and hear his wise words. Along with learning about the importance of Easter for Roman culture, I was able to see first hand, in Sorrento, a procession on Good Friday. Generally, Italian Easter consists of attending church services either on Good Friday or Easter Sunday, processions, rituals, easter feast, and La Pasquetta, or little Easter, on Monday. The procession I witnessed was a large group of men in black cloaks marching down the street with crosses, statues of Christ, and torches. It was a great thing to witness, seeing a huge Roman tradition. I saw many churches on this trip. I took a drive along Amalfi coast and saw a beautiful church I have attached. (Submitted on April 2,2024)