Sunday, June 21, 2026

Annie is Sweet 16 and Headed for the UK


 

Annie is finishing her second year of high school with a bang. She had a blowout "mocktail" party with the girls from her class. It was a riot! Such fun. 

Now, in an incredible turn of events, she has decided to finish at the Swiss School of Rome where she has attended for 4 years. Fluent in Italian and German, and proficient in French and Latin, she has decided to pursue preparation for university in England. She has just been accepted into an online British school who objective is to train students up to take the A Levels which are required for entrance into universities in the UK. 

Gooooooooooooo, Annie!!!!!!!!!!!!

Saturday, June 20, 2026

Venice and Theology

The University of Dallas' Rome Program recently went to Venice. The kids and I were able to join. The University of Dallas invited Fr. Thomas Joseph White, O.P., rector of the Angelicum, as its honored guest. He gave a theological reflection on Tintoretto's masterpiece in the Scuola San Rocco depicting Calvary. See video below. 

Spans a huge wall--an incredible masterpiece of baroque art

Detail of Mary standing at the foot of the cross


Look at this rough image of Mary at the Annunciation, in another room in the Scuola San Rocco. Not exactly Titian's Assumption in the Frari Basilica in Venice (below).

Titian's famous Frari Assumption in Venice

Sebo entertaining Spring Romers

I can't get enough of this beautiful city in the course of the day's changing lighting 

Back to the Scuola San Rocco

Fr. Thomas Joseph speaking to the students and faculty

Thank you for joining us, Fr. Thomas Joseph!


Here is a video of Fr. Thomas Joseph White, O.P. speaking on Tintoretto's crucifixion in the Scuola San Rocco. High Christology and fascinating mariology.