Day XI. Saturday, Week I.

"Eternal Father, turn our hearts to you. By seeking your kingdom and loving one another, may we become a people who worship you in spirit and truth. Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God for ever and ever. Amen" (Collect for today).

San Pietro in Vaticano. Saint Peter's basilica was erected over the place where Saint Peter was buried (63-67), in a necropolis near Nero's circus (sporting arena) where he was martyred. From the beginning, the simple potter's plot off a simple dirt path became a place of prayer. A simple shrine was erected by Pope Anacletus (79-91). Constantine later built a basilica over the tomb (323), using the necropolis and part of the wall of the circus as a foundation. It was consecrated November 18, 326.

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