Everett University Teachers Honor Pope Francis in Italy

News Summary

A group of Everett schoolteachers and residents traveled to Italy during the April school vacation to honor Pope Francis, who passed away at 88. Coordinated by retired teacher Maria Ricci, the group visited iconic sites in Rome and experienced a heartfelt memorial observance, reflecting on the Pope’s legacy and their cultural journey through Italy.

Everett, Massachusetts – A group of Everett schoolteachers and residents recently traveled to Italy to honor Pope Francis, who passed away on April 21 at the age of 88. This memorial observance took place during the April school vacation week and was coordinated by retired teacher and tour director, Maria Ricci.

Upon confirmation of Pope Francis’s death while touring Pompeii, the group expressed shock and sadness, yet they chose to continue with their plans in Rome. Some members of the group had already been in Rome for the Pope’s final Papal blessing on Easter Sunday, allowing them a unique connection to the events unfolding.

The group arrived in Rome on Thursday morning, visiting renowned landmarks such as the Sistine Chapel. Following their sightseeing, they made their way to the Basilica where the Pope was lying in state. Despite reports of original lines requiring a wait of up to 24 hours, the group managed to enter after waiting approximately 90 minutes. During this time, they interacted with various clergy members from around the world, sharing an atmosphere of kindness and spirituality with fellow attendees.

The group learned that Pope Francis’s final resting place would be at the Basilica of Saint Mary Major in Rome, conveniently located near their hotel. Additionally, their visit coincided with Italy’s Liberation Day on April 25, marking 80 years since the country was liberated from Nazi rule, which allowed them free entry to several museums.

Experiences and Reflections

Katy Rogers, a professional photographer and a tour group member, noted the rich experiences she encountered while visiting iconic sites including Sorrento, Amalfi, Pompeii, the Pantheon, the Colosseum, and the Vatican Museum. In her observations, she acknowledged the heightened media presence and strict security measures surrounding the Pope’s visitation in Rome.

Both Rogers and another group member, Kim Auger, president of the Everett Teachers Association, reflected on how the cultural experience in Italy offered them profound insights. Auger, a teacher with a passion for history, articulated the significance of being in Italy during such a notable event as the Pope’s passing. Rogers, who studied art history, found great value in observing historical art pieces, enhancing her knowledge and appreciation for the cultural contributions of Italy.

Background on Pope Francis

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, was elected as the 266th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church in March 2013. He gained worldwide recognition for his efforts to promote peace, compassion, and dialogue among different cultures and religions. His approach to leadership was marked by humility, social justice advocacy, and a commitment to the environment. The Pope’s demise not only resonated deeply within the Catholic community but also prompted worldwide reflections on his legacy and contributions to global issues.

The heartfelt memorial observance in Italy by the Everett teachers and residents illustrates how people come together in times of loss, sharing in both grief and honoring a life that had an impact on many across the globe. Their journey serves as a reminder of the cultural and spiritual intersections that shape our understanding of significant historical figures.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

University Pilgrimage to Vatican: Remembering Pope Francis
University Students Reflect on Pope Francis’s Impact

Additional Resources

• Everett Independent: Everett Delegation on Tour of Italy
• Everett Post: Pope Francis, Everyman Leader of the Roman Catholic Church, Dies at 88
• Berkshire Eagle: High School Softball Roundup
• Wikipedia: Pope Francis
• Everett Post: Electing a New Pope – What Happens Next
• Google Search: Pope Francis