Speechless in St. Peter’s Square

I can count on one hand the times I’ve been so surprised that I’ve been left completely speechless. It doesn’t happen often, but Monday, October 7th, 2024, was one of those rare moments—and it was one of the best surprises of my 31 years of life.

Our group at The Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Wall

As you may know, over a year ago, I began planning a trip to Italy to celebrate my ordination as a priest. Italy holds a special place in my heart, and I wanted to share this experience with family and friends—whoever could join—to celebrate Mass at some of the major basilicas and holy sites across the country. Initially, we planned to travel in June, just days after my ordination. But as is often the case, the best-laid plans don’t always pan out.

The costs of summer travel, the overwhelming tourist crowds, and the infamous Roman heat made a June trip impractical. So, we rescheduled for October, knowing there would be one major downside: my sister Emily and brother-in-law Rob wouldn’t be able to join us.

My sister Emily, myself, and my brother-in-law Rob

Rob, a special needs teacher with an enormous heart for his students, couldn’t take two weeks off in the middle of the school year without disrupting the routines so critical for his kids. Emily also had a work commitment—a team trip scheduled for the exact same time as ours. It wasn’t an easy decision to move the trip and leave part of the family behind, but it was the best choice for everyone involved.

In the months leading up to the trip, we tried not to dwell on who would be missing. Still, as our departure date approached, I felt a mix of excitement and sadness.

On Saturday, October 5th, we left Youngstown before sunrise, flying out of Cleveland and arriving in Rome early Sunday morning. After a relaxing afternoon of Italian food and a stroll around some local highlights, we turned in early to prepare for Monday’s adventures.

The day began with a breathtaking sunrise over the Eternal City and an early morning Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica. Celebrating Mass in the Chapel of Our Lady of Czestochowa alongside my dear friend and priest mentor, Fr. Kevin Peters, and my family and friends was a profound moment as a new priest.

After Mass, I encouraged everyone to explore the basilica’s interior before the crowds arrived. Some stayed to admire its beauty, while others, including my parents and me, dared to climb the 551 steps to the top of St. Peter’s dome—a feat I swore I’d never repeat after doing it in 2019. But when your parents want to try it, you go along for the adventure.

Once we descended, our group gathered at the meeting point near the stunning sculpture dedicated to migrants and refugees in St. Peter’s Square. That’s when it happened—the moment that left me utterly speechless.

Out of nowhere, Emily appeared from behind the sculpture. My first thought was that I was hallucinating—or maybe having a stroke. I was so stunned I couldn’t form a coherent sentence. My mind raced with questions: Who knew about this? What happened to her work trip? Did she quit her job? Could this be a layover? Where was Rob? Did my mother know?

All I could manage to say, right there in St. Peter’s Square, was, "What in the hell?"

Emily had done the impossible. Three weeks before the trip, her work commitment was postponed, and Rob, knowing he couldn’t join, encouraged her to go anyway. True to his generous spirit, Rob made sure Emily wouldn’t miss this special trip.

Emily coordinated with her boss and worked with our amazing travel agent and family friend, Chris Cutler, to plan the ultimate surprise. And what a surprise it was! For the next ten days, Emily joined us as we explored Rome, Assisi, Bologna, Florence, and Venice. Though Rob couldn’t be there in person, he was with us in spirit through FaceTime, shared photos, and even a “Flat Stanley” version of himself we took to every major site.

My dear friend and guide, Chris Cutler

For the first time in my life, I was truly speechless—and we have the video to prove it. (You can see that video above)

To Chris Cutler, who helped make this trip unforgettable: thank you. If you’re planning a trip to Italy or just want to read some incredible travel stories, I highly recommend her blog - Cold Pasta & Red Wine. https://coldpastaandredwine.com

Until next time my friends, I remain yours in Christ Jesus.

Peace,

Fr. Will