English 
Sr. Leah spent a year in Italy to prepare for the Guinea-Bissau mission. She got to know the Italian Christian communities and experienced the apostolate in Cornuda, Milan and Monza. Precious baggage that will be useful to her as she takes her first steps in Guinea.
My experience of being in Italy was an incredible journey that allowed me to immerse myself in the rich culture and history of this beautiful country. From Rome to Treviso, Venice to Cornuda (TV), Milan to Monza (MB), Cremeno to Villa Grugana (LC), and finally Pozzuoli, each city and town offered its unique charm and left a lasting impression on me.
In Rome, I stood in awe of the ancient ruins and architectural masterpieces that surrounded me. I visited the iconic landmarks such as the Colosseum, Vatican City, and the stunning Sistine Chapel. The spiritual significance of being in the heart of Catholicism was overwhelming, and I cherished my time spent exploring the rich history of Christianity.
Moving on to Treviso, I was captivated by the quaint streets and canals, resembling a Venetian charm on a smaller scale. I enjoyed wandering through the picturesque squares, trying local delicacies, and engaging with the warm and friendly people.
The enchanting city of Venice left a lasting impression on me. As I glided along the beautiful canals in a gondola (small boat typical of Venice), I marvelled at the grandeur of the palaces and bridges that lined the waterways. I spent hours getting lost in the narrow streets, stumbling upon hidden churches and vibrant piazzas.
The unique atmosphere and artistic flair of Venice spoke to my soul, creating an unforgettable experience.
In the peaceful town of Cornuda (TV) I embraced the serenity of the countryside. Surrounded by rolling green hills and vineyards, I had the opportunity to appreciate the beauty of nature, breathing in the fresh air and reflecting on my spiritual journey.
The bustling cities of Milan and Monza infused me with an energy of sophistication and style. In Milan, I marvelled at the incredible fashion, visited world-renowned art galleries, and admired the stunning architecture, including the famous Duomo di Milano.
In Monza, I saw a vibrant festival and witnessed the passion of the locals for their traditions and heritage.
I found solace and tranquillity in the village of Cremeno (LC), nestled within the breathtaking Italian Alps. The scenic beauty of snow-capped mountains and picturesque landscapes seemed like a painting coming to life. I took time to walk, enjoying the peace and quiet, and felt a deep connection to nature and God’s creation. Grugana, a charming village known for its traditional crafts.
Finally, I visited Pozzuoli, known for its ancient Roman ruins and beautiful views of the Bay of Naples. Exploring the archaeological sites, I felt a deep sense of awe and wonder at the rich history that unfolded before me. The combination of archaeological wonders and natural beauty made Pozzuoli a fitting end to my Italian adventure. Standing at the front port of the Pozzuoli where St Paul arrived and spent some time there meeting brothers before heading to Rome, these were moments of inspiration and an exploration of the beautiful land.
Overall, my experience of being in Italy was a transformative and soul-enriching journey. Each city and town I visited had its unique charm, allowing me to connect with history, embrace culture, and deepen my spiritual understanding. Italy will forever hold a special place in my heart, as it was the backdrop to a remarkable chapter of my life.
Italy left me with a profound sense of connection to my faith and spirituality. The beauty of the churches, art, and traditions in Italy inspired me to deepen my own spiritual practices and cultivate a greater appreciation for my religious beliefs.
The blessing experience is not to be proud of, but to acknowledge it and be grateful for. Nevertheless, God is all in all, no matter what it coasts or how it is felt. Acknowledgement is very important in every human life experience.
One thing that strikes me most about Italians is their deep-rooted connection to their faith and the values of the Gospel. I was impressed by the way Italians seamlessly integrate their faith into their daily lives, showing compassion, hospitality, and generosity to others. Their strong sense of community and tradition reflects a genuine commitment to living out the teachings of the Gospel.
I have had the opportunity to engage in apostolate work, which has been a transformative experience for me. Through serving others in the name of my faith, I have learned the importance of humility, empathy, and selflessness. Apostolate work has allowed me to deepen my understanding of the Gospel values and develop a greater sense of purpose and fulfilment in my spiritual journey.
Sr. Leah Baitu, Guinea-Bissau
