Today is Easter Monday, a day celebrated in many countries, continuing
the Easter celebration - specifically Jesus’ reunion with his disciples the day
after his resurrection. Some Italian
traditions involve joining together with family for a picnic in the countryside.
Games include an Easter egg rolling contest. There is also rumor of a tradition
of dousing unsuspecting loved ones with water that has been blessed with holy
water brought home Easter Sunday to bless both home and food. There is
definitely something inharmonious about the seasonal timing of this tradition –
brrrr!
Colored eggs for sale at the super mercato. (Eggs are never found in the refrigerator section.)
Easter Sunday we attended services at a nearby cathedral (built
1215 – 1263). Warned ahead of time that the large cathedral was not heated, we
layered up on clothing. I wore leggings under my pants, two camisoles, one tank top, two pull
over sweaters, a shrug, a lightweight wool jacket, a shawl, a wool hat and brought my
lightweight down jacket to use as a blanket. It was still cold but far from
miserable.
The entire service was in Italian, but I was able to pick up
more words and phrases than I expected as well as recognize the traditional
Easter and communion scripture readings.
The beauty of the majestic Siena Duomo, its massive pillars,
frescoes, mosaic and other artwork is beyond my ability to describe. I loved experiencing the early music and
plainchant sung by priest and choir and hearing the historic pipe organ
resonate throughout the building. It was amazing to consider all the individual
lives over the centuries, from 1215 to 2015, that have stood or sat in my
place. Who were they? What were their lives like? What were their thoughts,
their joys and sorrows?
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