From Panic to Peace – Our First Day in Rome
We made it to Rome… but not without a dramatic start. After landing, we were hit with the kind of travel nightmare that makes your heart drop — we realized we couldn’t find our passports. The last time we remembered having them was back in Miami while boarding the plane. The sinking feeling that followed was intense.
Before we knew it, we were escorted to what can only be described as airport jail — a holding room where we were told to wait as officials contacted the airline. We were informed that unless the cleaning crew found our passports, we’d be sent back home immediately. Just like that — our pilgrimage, our prayers, our months of anticipation — all hanging by a thread.
In that moment, I turned to the only place I could: prayer. I asked God to step in, to make a way when things looked impossible. I asked Him not just for our passports, but for peace and for His will to be done.
And He came through.
The cleaning crew found our passports on the plane and returned them to us. The flood of relief was overwhelming. We were cleared to stay in Rome — our pilgrimage could begin.
Once we got checked into the hotel, we took our first steps into the Eternal City. Walking the cobblestone streets and turning a corner to see the magnificent St. Peter’s Basilica in the distance took my breath away. We continued on to Santa Maria in Vallicella, where we attended our first Mass in Rome. I have never seen a church so beautifully adorned — the art, the gold, the reverence in the air. (Picture above) But I have a feeling I’ll be saying that a lot on this trip!
We ended the night with an authentic Italian dinner, complete with homemade pasta and wood-fired pizza. Every bite was as heavenly as the scenery.
Today, we head to Assisi, and my heart is open to all that God will show us there. I can’t wait to share what’s next on this journey — but for now, I’m just so grateful for the God who hears, the saints who intercede, and the moments of grace that come even in the chaos.
Stay tuned — the adventure is just beginning. 🇮🇹🙏✝️
