Recently the parish priest, Don Giorgio, stopped by our home unannounced. We were warned by a friend that this might eventually happen. It was strange. Mr. Duncan tried to crack jokes about being outnumbered by Catholics 2 to 3 in our household. He didn't laugh.
We chatted a bit about catechism and learned that even though religion may be taught in the schools it is more the "study of religions" and would not suffice as Catholic catechism. (Really? Say it ain't so Don Giorgio! We were counting on this!)
He said a prayer. Mr. Duncan and I recited the "Our Father" in English for him, not without a couple of stumbles.
He then pulled his Holy Water wand out from his bag and blessed our new home.
Before leaving he left us a cell number, in case we ever need him, and a couple pieces of paper. Upon reading one, I noticed that he actually stopped by for the "benedizione annuale alla famiglia," which I think means the annual family blessing.
Nice.
Were we then supposed to give him money?
2 comments:
How funny!!!! You better show up to church this Wed with a pocket full of euro ;)
No, every year in Italy the priest comes to "bless" your house and have a small chat. They usually come during this period and often they post signs in the neighborhood saying when they will be coming. Get used to it as it happens every year! No money required!
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