It has been a very busy week here, between doctor appointments, homeschooling, and other engagements, but we were able to celebrate last Tuesday the feast of the Assumption as a family on a little day trip to the beautiful town of Ave Maria, Fl. The feast of the Assumption is very special for us, we love Our Blessed Mother, and this Feast brings us closer in the faith, so what better place to celebrate than this little town that honors Her name?
Ave Maria is located near the cities of Immokalee and Naples, it is famous for its Catholic college campus. With a beautiful community of homes and shops, is a great place to spend the afternoon strolling through the plaza and going to Mass at the Oratory. Ave Maria has an Italian feel throughout that makes you feel so welcomed, pleasant and serene.
It was the first time we celebrated Mass there, and we loved every minute of it! The pastor was great! It was a very traditional ceremony, with an amazing choir, a vibrant community of numerous families and young students. At the Oratory, one can get lost in its architectural design; it brings a mixture of iron high ceiling beams and wooden pews and confessionals, it is a real contrast of modern vs traditional that clicks just right. Not to mention the intentional design, facilitates immensely the acoustic and lighting across the entire church, making the entire experience hard to forget.
After Mass, we had lunch nearby, there is plenty of Italian restaurants and coffee shops to choose from. We visited the local shops, where you can find a large section of catholic items, books and college memorabilia. We tried to visit the Mother Teresa project, but it was closed. The Mother Teresa project displays her life in pictures, replicas of the places she lived and a very complete collection of her writings and works. Hope to come back in a near future and explore it. Such a great model of spirituality and service for my kids to look up to.
Overall we had a great day as a family, something different and relaxed, a space to reflect and enjoy in the tranquility of a beautiful day. Kids admired the charm of this little town, enjoyed the Mass celebration, and dreamed of studying here one day. It is surprising the impression the youth can leave in the eyes of children. My kids admired that! so many college kids devout and happy, is almost contagious!
Lastly a short take of the "Ave Maria" melody after the Mass.
Background noise courtesy of my toddler going about the missals 😔
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