Why was I so suprised????
Dear All,
The Jewish Customs Officers must think me irresistable, this is what I reminded myself over and over and over again as I endured yet another strip search and grilling as I tried to make it through to the departure lounge. Make it I did and I now I find msyelf bashing out these token words in an Istanbul Internet cafae.
I quite got used to the fact that Franciscans speak Italian in Israel and so why was I so surprised to discover that they use French in Turkey?!?! With daily Mass in either Italian, French or Spanish the Parish Priest still wonders why his congregation is going down! I broke it to him as gently as I could; it could have something to do with the expulsion of the Greek Catholics or the genoicide of the Armenian Catholics or (just maybe) it could have just have a little to do with the fact that no one can understand a word of what you are saying. I was only glad that he had already given me the keys to my room and not just the front door.
Out of nothing more than pure pettiness I will speak only Arabic and English when I get to Italy. Yes, (I can hear you thinking) he hasn’t even left Turkey and already he is talking about visiting ANOTHER country. Now, aren”t you sorry that you didn”t sign up when I did??? Poverty, chastity and obedience < 2 from 3 aint bad>
I want to use superaltives like “amazing” “mind blowing” “incredible” and “like nothing else I have ever seen” to describe Hagia Sophia but even these words fall short of the mark. I was so moved that I almost cried when I walked in and saw the 55metre high dome, you see what makes this building so awe inspiring is not how it was built (bloody enormous and opulent) but that it was built by Emporer Constantine as a gift to God. Wow, now that is amazing. I am not into “buildings” but this is the story of the widows mite. Just as she gave her “all” to God so too did the Emporer. You may not all agree with me —- but even if one of you does at least I pass as that makes it 50%.
Tomorrow I leave for 21days roving around the country with little internet opportunities. So, take care, God Bless and go gently.
Blessings. Paul
PS. Happy Mothers Day Mum.
PPS. I had lunch today on the Boshporus Strait. To the left of me was Europe and to the right was Asia Minor. How Cool!!!
PPPS. Now talking about Lunch …… this is the Land Of Turkish Delight ……. yummmmmmmmmm
Nice going,every one enjoys your work.