A Prayer for Europe

L'Arcangelo Michele by Paolo de Matteis

In light of the troubling reports of escalating violence and destruction across Europe, our thoughts and prayers are with the innocent victims of the unrest. May St. Benedict of Nursia, St. Michael the Archangel, St. Joan of Arc, and St. Andrew Corsini, traditionally invoked against civil disturbances and riots, intercede on their behalf and watch over the peoples of Europe.

St. Michael the Archangel, defend us in battle. Be our protection against the wickedness and snares of the Devil. May God rebuke him, we humbly pray, and do thou, O Prince of the heavenly host, by the power of God, thrust into hell Satan and all the evil spirits who prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls. Amen.

Remembering Emmanuel Dufournel

The Death of Emmanuel Dufournel

"I am happy to see these 14 wounds flowing with all my blood for the glory of the church. The Fourteenth is my way of the cross!" *

In memory of 2nd Lieutenant Emmanuel Dufournel (b. Poligny 22 February, 1840 — d. Valentano 20 October 1867), Papal Zouave who died fighting the Garibaldini at the battle of Farnese, we pray for the happy repose of his soul.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon him. May his soul, and the souls of all the faithful departed, through the mercy of God, rest in peace. Amen 

* Quoted from Papal Zouave History

Photo of the Week: Roman Statue of "Lycurgus or Lysias" in the Vatican

Photo by New York Scugnizzo

Our Lady of Champion at the Shrine Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament in Raritan, New Jersey

Remembering Marie Antoinette, Queen of France

Marie Antoinette, Queen of France (2 Nov. 1755–16 Oct. 1793)

On Friday, October 16th, a small group of friends gathered for our annual dinner in memory of Marie Antoinette, Queen of France and Navarre. Ordinarily, I would have organized a larger affair, but recent travels, work, family obligations, and preparations for an upcoming trip to Napoli had occupied much of my attention. As the occasion fell on a Friday, we eschewed meat in favor of an assortment of eggplant dishes, a veritable Sagra della Melanzana. Though modest in scale, the evening was no less meaningful, as guests raised their glasses in tribute to the martyred queen, whose grace, dignity, and courage continue to inspire devotion more than two centuries after her death. Viva ’a Reggina!

Caponata

Melanzane sott'olio

Polpette di milinciani

Pasta alla Norma

The Splendor of Parma Cathedral

Previous: The Splendor of Santa Maria della Steccata

Among the most impressive places I visited during my stay in Parma was the Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta, better known as Parma Cathedral, a magnificent example of Romanesque architecture.

Consecrated in 1106, the cathedral's greatest artistic treasure is undoubtedly Correggio’s extraordinary fresco of the Assumption of the Virgin, which transforms the cathedral’s dome into a breathtaking vision of heaven.

Looking upward, it is easy to understand why Correggio’s masterpiece has inspired wonder for nearly five centuries.

Next: A Farewell to the Eternal City

~ By Giovanni di Napoli, October 18th, Feast of San Luca Evangelista 

Feast of Blessed Karl of Austria at St. Stephen's Church in Portland, Oregon

The Splendor of Santa Maria della Steccata

Previous: An Old Fascination, a New Discovery

Among the churches I visited in Parma was the Basilica di Santa Maria della Steccata, one of the city’s great architectural and artistic treasures. Unfortunately, much of its exterior was obscured by scaffolding and protective wrapping as part of extensive seismic safety improvements.

Completed in the sixteenth century, the Renaissance basilica is particularly remarkable for its richly decorated interior, including magnificent frescoes by Parmigianino. It is also the magistral church of the Sacred Military Constantinian Order of St. George, a distinction that adds another layer of historical significance to an already extraordinary place.

Stepping inside, I was reminded once again that some of Italy’s greatest treasures are found not in museums, but in its churches.

Next: The Splendor of Parma Cathedral

~ By Giovanni di Napoli, October 17th, Feast of St. Margaret Mary Alacoque