St Cassian’s team visit Rome

The team from St Cassian’s enjoyed a trip to Rome recently where they had the opportunity to visit the Vatican and the Generalate, among many other highlights. See below to read the reaction of team members.

Mateo - 

Going to Rome with the team was an amazing experience, it was great to share some time with them outside our usual routine or places.

It's the perfect opportunity to know them more and to make special memories before the end of the year. Being in another country is always a good experience, but it's even better if you have good company.

Ana - 

People often have the dream to travel abroad with their friends. I know I always had this dream. But when I look back at my experience with my team in Rome I can see that it went beyond expectations. 

I grew up in a Lasallian school, where you could hear many things about how the institution runs and who takes care of it. What I could never imagine was actually going to those places and meeting so many important and hard-working people. Walking in the brothers house and office corridors was eye-opening and inspirational.

Overall it was a great experience, with beautiful memories and new friends, full of laughter and great food. I will never forget the time spent there.

Mollie -

The team’s pilgrimage to Rome has certainly been a highlight from this volunteer year. Getting the opportunity to explore the city, get closer with my team mates and see the centre of both the Catholic and Lasallian worlds has been an unforgettable experience.

Seeing the history and visiting lots of different churches was amazing and I truly felt connected to the spirit there. It was amazing to see how Catholicism and catholic iconography is everywhere and is so integrated into the city in both past and current times.

Also, attending the Papal audience and getting to see and hear Pope Francis’ blessing was incredible, and something I never thought I would do - seeing all those people there, so excited to hear and see him was something I cannot describe. 

The trip also allowed me to solidify the Lasallian-ness within myself. Meeting and talking with Lasallians working in Rome like Eleanora, Keane, Br Chris Patiño, Br Aiden and others helped me to realise just how much I love the Lasallian world and how much I want to continue to be a part of it as I move on from the centre.

I honestly feel at home in any Lasallian environment, so, so welcomed and I truly understand why we call ourselves a family. Having the connection of La Salle made meeting everyone at the Generalate so much easier and comfortable in the knowledge that we have the same foundations. I am honestly so, so happy that I went and they are memories that I will hold dear for years to come.