Day XI. Saturday, Week I.

Threatened with its collapse, Julius II decided to rebuild it (1506). The project involved the greatest of minds at the time including Raphael, Maderno, Michelangelo, and Bernini. 120 years later, it was consecrated on November 18, 1626, 1300 years after its first consecration. There are no stained glass windows in it. Bernini's image of the Holy Spirit, (see photo), is made from alabaster. (This is a sign of hope for those of use who are as dense as rock - the Holy Spirit can still shine through us!) Without a doubt Saint Peter's is one of the most beautiful churches in the world and an incredible testament to the faith of our ancestors. (The photo of the facade was taken during the Consistory of February 21, 2001, when the Holy Father created 44 new Cardinals.)

Today is the traditional day when priests were ordained at the foot of the altar at Saint Peter's. The celebration began with a vigil this evening, which culminated with the ordination Sunday morning.