The strong Australian contingent at the Beda took part yesterday in the Anzac Day Commemorations in Rome. In the morning, the Rector represented the College at the Anzac Service at the Commonwealth Rome War Cemetery in Testaccio and later in the day our Australian students attended a Mass and reception at Domus Australia. Our prayers and best wishes go to the Australian community as they remember those who died in the two world wars.

A group of priests ordained less than ten years from Liverpool, came to lunch today with their Archbishop, Malcolm McMahon. The group go on pilgrimage with the Archbishop every year as part of their on-going formation and this week they are visting Rome. After Tre Fontane this morning, they relaxed with us over lunch before moving on to St Paul's Basilica. It was great to see so many happy and fulfilled priests enjoying the time with their Archbishop and enjoying Beda hospitality.

Seven external professors joined Formation Staff yesterday for the annual Plenary Staff Meeting. The report from the Moderator from St Mary's University was discussed and information was shared on refurbishing the library, the college website and the Beda's vocation promotion initiatives. The meeting was also the opportunity for useful discussion on various items of common academic interest.

All staff and students of the Beda were invited to the English College last night for Mass and a celebration meal. The English College is celebrating several significant anniversaires this year and one which is particularly important for us is that it is a hundred years (1918) since the Beda moved out from sharing premises with the English College. Thank you to all at the English College for their welcome and hospitality on this very enjoyable evening.

Twenty seven people who are on a pilgrimage to Rome organised by The Tablet were welcomed for lunch at the Beda today. The chaplain and leader of the group was former rector, Mgr Rod Strange. After a lovely lunch with the Beda community and coffee in the garden, the group departed for Tre Fontane on the way to the airport for their return.

The ‘closeness’ of God, Pope Francis’ theme at the Chrism Mass this year, has resonated through all our Holy Week liturgies at the Beda. The prayerful atmosphere during the week has brought home to us in a new way God’s closeness in all things, our sorrows and our joys. Thanks to all our friends and supporters at this joyful season. Buona Pasqua!.