The Italian Tour of the Abbot of the Pomaia Monastery is making a stop in Assisi and already this morning we monks and nuns met as the first appointment Monsignor Domenico Sorrentino, Bishop of the diocese of Assisi and Foligno.
The Bishop welcomed us with great cordiality, and although he was about to leave, he stayed on, spending words of appreciation for all religious traditions and renewing the importance of keeping open dialogue and good heart.
The next meeting, with the kind accompaniment of Marina Zola, Director of the Ecumenism and Dialogue Office, took place in the "Sanctuary of despoiling", also called the “Sanctuary of Renunciation” where Marco Gaballo, a Capuchin friar recently appointed head of this church, led the group.
Brother Matteo welcomed us with Brother Jacopa's "mostaccioli"., which are biscuits with almonds and honey, much loved by Saint Francis and prepared by themselves for Saint Francis' day on October 4th.
Of great impact is the visit to the underground area where, in front of what in the Middle Ages was the door of the palace of the Episcopal seat, Saint Francis renounced all his properties with the intention of following the only Father in heaven.
At the end of the meeting the Capuchin friars sang prayers, while the Abbot and all of us recited the eight verses of mental training.
A beautiful moment of sharing in which the spirit of brotherhood and spirituality of Assisi was felt.
