Today was a choose-your-own adventure day! Some of us attended the mass at the St. Francis in the early morning, others took a hike around Assisi, shopped for souvenirs, or took the chance to sleep in. Several of us also took the opportunity to have a wonderful Bible study together before lunch.
Those of us who attended the mass had the opportunity to listen to the ethereal choir, which was an amazing experience in the resonant chamber of the Basilica. The service was led by three Franciscian Friars, which we were surprised to find were from all around the world. Attending mass in such a beautiful basilica was an extremely unique experience!
Some of us, driven by the excitement of adventure, chose to journey toward a distant tower visible from our hotel. After exploring parts of Assisi that we’d not yet seen, we eventually found a beautiful trail which led to the structure. Once there, we took time to share a wonderful conversation within the magnificent Italian forest before returning.
A few others slept for an extra hour or two to catch up on exhaustion from jetlag and from the past several busy days. We went to a small pastry shop near the marketplace, where we ordered croissants, cannolis, and a few cups of coffee. Once everyone’s bellies were filled, we leisurely shopped for souvenirs. Nearby was a lavender shop, a store that sold olive wood works, and stores with many uniquely shaped pastas!
After lunch, we had several extremely informative sessions by our student leaders covering useful topics for our transition to college life. We talked about topics such as how to form healthy relationships and how to succeed academically.
Overall, today was characterized by wonderful meals and ample free time to bond with others and explore Assisi. We’re turning in early tonight, as we have a long day planned tomorrow, when we will return to Rome and visit the Vatican Museum!
Ciaowdy,
Malachi, Josh, & Melody
