Beatification...an unexpected but perfect view

I awoke early this morning on Divine Mercy Sunday...the day of Beatification of John XXIII and John Paul II.   I headed towards the Vatican...knowing I wouldn't get too far.  Within one mile I hit a road block of humanity.   I could get no further than the far side of the castle de Angelo .  

I watched as valiant men from all nations held their flags high and forged onward...like A civil war general leading the charge at Gettysburg.  With courage and valor they met the pointy elbows of  little Italian women...and fell.

I had enough.  I grabbed a free bottle of water, turned and swam upstream.
Nothing new to my life.

I arrived at Mary Queen of Apostles church in time for Holy Eucharist.
I knelt, prayed and offered intentions.

I went to my room, turned on the tv and watched the liturgy happening blocks away.

My wife and I conversed via text as she watched in the states.   Bells tolled in the city announcing the moment in time.
It was the best canonization I ever attended.

Now it is off to fight some crowds in order to catch a bus to a small little town.

Saints John Paul and John ....pray for us.

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