Rome Scholars Network

Brad here. After a great time in Cork, Ireland, we flew to Rome for the Rome Scholars Network. We flew to Rome on June 25, and flew out on the 29th. The Rome Scholars Network is led by Leonardo De Chirico, a super fellow, a pastor, and a theologian.  It was an honor to have the opportunity to give some talks at this week of training.  Rome is of course an endless adventure, and in addition to the talks, we were able to see some sights.

When we first arrived in Rome, and made it to our accommodations, it was time to find some food.  Thankfully, we discovered this great pizza place within walking distance of our hotel.

More fun in Rome.

A super meal outside in one of the piazzas.

Walking home after a good meal.

It was a real treat to go on a walking Reformation tour in Rome.  Here we are at the Martin Luther piazza.

The Church of Saint Ignatius of Loyola.  Ignatius was founder of the Jesuits, who were central to the ferreting out of the Protestants.

This sculpture is found in the Church of St. Ignatius of Loyola.  It is tragic.  I took several pictures--generally zooming in over the next few pictures that follow.  In the sculpture, Mary or the Church is stomping out, or attempting to destroy something.  As one looks further, one sees that the book on the left is by Martin Luther.  The book on the right (more visible in the pictures below) is by John Calvin.  For one who upholds the beauty and necessity of the Reformation, this is tragic.

Here (and below) one can see that it is a book by John Calvin which is being held by the man being held down.

A notice in the church for the availability of indulgences, dated 1860. Sadly, indulgences are still issued by the Roman Catholic Church today.

A pulpit in the church.

The light streaming in through a window in the church.