THE ROME EXPERIENCE A SUMMER PROGRAM FOR DIOCESAN SEMINARIANS TRIP AND PROGRAM INFORMATION

Transcription

1 THE ROME EXPERIENCE A SUMMER PROGRAM FOR DIOCESAN SEMINARIANS 2015 TRIP AND PROGRAM INFORMATION

2 TABLE OF CONTENTS WELCOME WELCOME... i IMPORTANT TRAVEL INFORMATION... 1 Flight Itineraries... 1 Luggage Regulations... 1 Accommodations... 2 SCHEDULES... 3 Orientation... 3 Retreat... 3 Daily... 4 ASSIGNMENTS... 5 Liturgical... 5 Communications and Media... 7 COURSE MATERIALS... 8 CODE OF CONDUCT... 9 INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL INFORMATION Packing List Laundry Electronics Financial MEDICAL ATTENTION MAPS AND DIRECTIONS Dear Seminarians: I am pleased to welcome you to The Rome Experience The mission of the program is to give you the opportunity to experience the history and cultural heritage of Rome while maintaining a consistent life of prayer, which will begin at orientation and the spiritual retreat in Ars, France. Over the next 6 weeks we will live together full and active days of prayer and study. I encourage you to take advantage of this time to build fraternity with your brother seminarians, to frequent the Sacrament of Confession, and to feel free to talk with any of the spiritual directors at any time, if you have any questions or concerns. Like the 121 seminarians before you that have participated in the program, I pray that your lives will be deeply and positively renewed by this experience. Following is a collection of important information for the trip and the program, including our schedules and important and practical travel information. However, if you have any questions that are not addressed in this booklet, please do not hesitate to ask the staff or myself. Mary, Queen of Apostles and Seat of Wisdom, pray for us! Sincerely, Rev. Eric Nielsen Program Director The Rome Experience CLASS DIRECTORY The Rome Experience Class of 2014 i THE ROME EXPERIENCE

3 IMPORTANT TRAVEL INFORMATION FLIGHT ITINERARIES TUESDAY, MAY 19, 2015 Iberia Flight 6274 Depart Chicago 04:35 Arrive Madrid 07:45 WEDNESDAY, MAY 20, 2015 Iberia Flight 3736 Depart Madrid 08:45 Arrive Lyon 10:30 WEDNESDAY, MAY 27, 2015 Easy-jet Volo Flight 4473 Depart Lyon 14:30 Arrive Rome 16:00 SUNDAY, JUNE 28, 2015 Vueling VY Flight 6101 Depart Rome 09:55 Arrive Barcelona 11:40 WEDNESDAY, JULY 1, 2015 Iberia Flight 6275 Depart Madrid 11:50 Arrive Chicago 14:15 LUGGAGE REGULATIONS EASYJET BAGGAGE INFORMATION Wednesday, May 27, 2015 Easy-jet Volo Flight# 4473 Depart Lyon 14:30 Arrive Rome 16:00 Hold Baggage (Checked): The fee to put ONE bag in the hold (check-in) is paid for by the program. Cabin/Hand Baggage (Carry-on): No weight restriction and no fee Link to the website: ONE cabin/hand bag per passenger up to the maximum size of 56 x 45 x 25 cm (including handles and wheels). Overhead locker space is limited on board the aircraft and on busy flights your cabin bay may have to go in the hold. There s no weight restriction for cabin baggage as long as you can place and retrieve the cabin bag safely in the overhead lockers without assistance. Small items must be placed underneath the seat in front. An overcoat, shawl, umbrella, crutches or walking frame/stick and one standardised bag of goods purchased at the departure airport may also be carried in addition to the one item allowance. Hand baggage will be checked at the check-in desk and at the boarding gate to ensure that it meets the stated requirements. If your item of hand baggage is oversized and cannot be accommodated it will need to be checked into the aircraft hold and a fee will be charged. Liquids can be carried within your hand baggage provided they are stored in containers no bigger than 100ml (3 ounces) and are carried in a clear, re-sealable plastic bag with maximum dimensions of 20 x 20cms. Each passenger can carry a maximum of 1000ml (33 ounces) (e.g. 10 x 100ml). The plastic bag will need to be presented separately at security and you may be required to dispose of liquids that do not meet the stated requirements. LIQUIDS ALLOWED MAXIMUM 100 ML CONTAINERS Fees for overweight or additional bags is the responsibility of each participant. Link to their website: Hold baggage allowance is 20kg (44 lbs.) per passenger. The maximum measurement for checked baggage is 275cm (108 inches) (length + width + height). MAX 20cm ALLOWED Transparent re-sealable bag Items fit comfortably Fastened closed Medicines, baby food, and milk over 100ml must be presented for inspection at X-ray NOT ALLOWED NO SHARP ITEMS ALLOWED NO CONTAINERS OVER 100ML, EVEN IF PARTIALLY FULL THE ROME EXPERIENCE 1

4 IMPORTANT TRAVEL INFORMATION VUELING BAGGAGE INFORMATION Sunday, June 28, 2015 Vueling Volo Flight# 6101 Depart Rome 09:55 Arrive Barcelona 11:40 Checked Luggage: The fee to check ONE bag is paid for by the program. Fees for overweight or additional bags is the responsibility of each participant. Link to their website: Standard hold baggage allowance is 20kg (44 lbs.) per passenger. The maximum measurement for checked baggage is 275cm (108 inches) (length + width + height). Hand Luggage (Carry-on): ONE hand luggage 10 kg weight allowance or the size allowance of 55 x 40 x 20 Regulations at the boarding gate are very strict. If the size or weight of your luggage exceeds the allowances, you ll have to pay a charge of 35 ($40). ACCOMMODATIONS WEDNESDAY, MAY 20 WEDNESDAY, MAY 27, 2015 Foyer Sacerdotal Jean-Paul II 352, Chemin de la Percelliere Ars sur Formans France Phone Fax WEDNESDAY, MAY 27 SUNDAY, JUNE 28, 2015 CIAM (Il Centro Internazionale de Animazione Missionaria) Via Urbano VIII, Rome (Vatican City), Italy Phone Fax SUNDAY, JUNE 28 MONDAY, JUNE 29, 2015 Hosteria El Tozal (Torreciudad) Carretera de Artasona, s/n El Grado, Spain TUESDAY, JUNE 30, 2015 Emaus Casa de Espiritualidad Avda. Juan Pablo II, Pozuelo de Alarcon Madrid, Spain THE ROME EXPERIENCE

5 SCHEDULES ORIENTATION (MUNDELEIN, IL) MONDAY, MAY 18, 2015 Arrive Chicago, O Hare International Airport 2:00 PM Meet Mrs. Charmaine Roth ( cell) Terminal #2 Baggage Claim Level Vestibule 2 C-L L; Near Starbuck s UNIVERSITY OF ST. MARY OF THE LAKE MUNDELEIN SEMINARY 4:00 PM Check-In Residence Hall 5:15 PM Evening Prayer Center Chapel 5:30 PM Dinner Dining Room 6:30 PM Orientation CR 105 7:30 PM Break 9:00 PM Movie CR :00 PM Examination, Night Prayer Center Chapel TUESDAY, MAY 19, :45 AM Morning Prayer Center Chapel 7:00 AM Silent Prayer Center Chapel 7:30 AM Mass Center Chapel 8:15 AM Breakfast Dining Room 9:30 AM Checkout Residence Hall 10:00 AM Orientation CR :00 PM Group Photo 12:30 PM Depart for O Hare Airport Lunch at the airport SPIRITUAL RETREAT (ARS, FRANCE) FRIDAY, MAY 22, :30 PM Meditation 6:00 PM Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and Evening Prayer 6:30 PM Meditation 7:00 PM Benediction 7:20 PM Dinner 8:00 PM Talk 9:00 PM Examination/Night Prayer SATURDAY, MAY 23 MONDAY, MAY 25, :15 AM Wake 7:10 AM Morning Prayer 7:25 AM Meditation 8:00 AM Mass 8:45 AM Breakfast 12:20 PM Rosary 12:45 PM Lunch 2:15 PM Meditation 6:00 PM Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and Evening Prayer 6:30 PM Meditation 7:00 PM Benediction 7:20 PM Dinner 8:00 PM Talk 9:00 PM Examination/Night Prayer TUESDAY, MAY 26, :15 AM Wake 7:10 AM Morning Prayer 7:25 AM Meditation 8:00 AM Mass 8:45 AM Breakfast 12:20 PM Rosary 12:45 PM Lunch 2:00 PM Holy Hour/Meditation 3:00 PM Retreat Ends THE ROME EXPERIENCE 3

6 SCHEDULES DAILY SCHEDULE The daily schedule* is designed to help the participants benefit maximally from all the offerings of the program, to foster fraternity, and to remain intimately united to Christ through prayer and study. Visits with family, friends, brother seminarians, and priests are only permitted during scheduled free time. Family and friends visiting Rome should be informed of this policy. Visits from vocation directors, rectors, or bishops may occur at any time that is convenient. WEEKDAYS: 6:45 AM Morning Prayer 7:00 AM Meditation and Holy Mass 8:00 AM Breakfast 9:00 AM Class 10:00 AM Class 11:00 AM Class 1:00 PM Lunch 2:00 PM Tours/Free Time 6:45 PM Evening Prayer and Mental Prayer 7:30 PM Dinner 9:00 PM Rosary, Examination of Conscience, Night Prayer WEEKLY SCHEDULE INCLUDES: Eucharistic Adoration and Benediction Confessions and Spiritual Direction Papal Liturgies Visits to Vatican Congregations Tours and Excursions Students have free time every Saturday from noon until Sunday dinnertime. *The daily schedule, including free time, is subject to change. A final schedule will be given to each seminarian at orientation. 4 THE ROME EXPERIENCE

7 ASSIGNMENTS LITURGICAL RESPONSIBILITIES CANTOR/HYMN LEADER Choose the hymns to be sung at Mass Lead hymns from the Breviary for all hours of the Liturgy of the Hours recited in common Check with the priest for the day for anything specific for Mass LITURGY OF THE HOURS Leads the common recitation of the Liturgy of the Hours when scheduled Leader is responsible for everything during his time, even when scheduled as being optional, but is not required to be there if he has made arrangements to be replaced by a brother seminarian SACRISTAN Responsible for setting up the sanctuary for the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass and for Eucharistic Adoration Responsible for cleaning up after Be sure to note if you are scheduled for a day where Mass is at a pilgrimage site, your work may be a little more involved that day LECTOR Responsible for leading at Morning Prayer, Evening Prayer and Night Prayer when prayed in common and for the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass Responsible for all liturgies during his time even when scheduled as being optional, but is not required to be there if he has made arrangements to be replaced by a brother seminarian Responsible for leading the Rosary when prayed in common ACOLYTE: Responsible for serving at the altar for the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass and Eucharistic Adoration When you are scheduled to serve Mass at a pilgrimage site, you will need to have your cassock and surplice with you so as to be ready to serve THE ROME EXPERIENCE 5

8 ASSIGNMENTS LITURGICAL ASSIGNMENTS SACRISTAN LECTOR ACOLYTE CANTOR 19-May Anani Infanger Reckers Fox 20-May Arvizu-Mancilla Kenyon Seo Garcia-Concepcion 21-May Ayubi Keyes Stegbauer Reeves 22-May Bredestege Lopez-Alvarez Anani Taylan 23-May Cecil Lopez-Vargas Arvizu-Mancilla Vu 24-May Cone-Lombarte Nursey Ayubi Fox 25-May Fuentes-Jimenez Porter Bredestege Garcia-Concepcion 26-May German Reckers Cecil Reeves 27-May Infanger Seo Cone-Lombarte Taylan 28-May Kenyon Stegbauer Fuentes-Jimenez Vu 29-May Keyes Anani German Fox 30-May Lopez-Alvarez Arvizu-Mancilla Infanger Garcia-Concepcion 31-May Lopez-Vargas Ayubi Kenyon Reeves 1-Jun Nursey Bredestege Keyes Taylan 2-Jun Porter Cecil Lopez-Alvarez Vu 3-Jun Reckers Cone-Lombarte Lopez-Vargas Fox 4-Jun Seo Fuentes-Jimenez Nursey Garcia-Concepcion 5-Jun Stegbauer German Porter Reeves 6-Jun Anani Infanger Reckers Taylan 7-Jun Arvizu-Mancilla Kenyon Seo Vu 8-Jun Ayubi Keyes Stegbauer Fox 9-Jun Bredestege Lopez-Alvarez Anani Garcia-Concepcion 10-Jun Cecil Lopez-Vargas Arvizu-Mancilla Reeves 11-Jun Cone-Lombarte Nursey Ayubi Taylan 12-Jun Fuentes-Jimenez Porter Bredestege Vu 13-Jun German Reckers Cecil Fox 14-Jun Infanger Seo Cone-Lombarte Garcia-Concepcion 15-Jun Kenyon Stegbauer Fuentes-Jimenez Reeves 16-Jun Keyes Anani German Taylan 17-Jun Lopez-Alvarez Arvizu-Mancilla Infanger Vu 18-Jun Lopez-Vargas Ayubi Kenyon Fox 19-Jun Nursey Bredestege Keyes Garcia-Concepcion 20-Jun Porter Cecil Lopez-Alvarez Reeves 21-Jun Reckers Cone-Lombarte Lopez-Vargas Taylan 22-Jun Seo Fuentes-Jimenez Nursey Vu 23-Jun Stegbauer German Porter Fox 24-Jun Anani Infanger Reckers Garcia-Concepcion 25-Jun Arvizu-Mancilla Kenyon Seo Reeves 26-Jun Ayubi Keyes Stegbauer Taylan 27-Jun Bredestege Lopez-Alvarez Anani Vu 28-Jun Cecil Lopez-Vargas Arvizu-Mancilla Fox 29-Jun Cone-Lombarte Nursey Ayubi Garcia-Concepcion 30-Jun Fuentes-Jimenez Porter Bredestege Reeves 1-Jul German Reckers Cecil Taylan 6 THE ROME EXPERIENCE

9 ASSIGNMENTS COMMUNICATIONS & MEDIA BLOGGING The Rome Experience Blog To simplify the writing process for the blog ( we are requesting two entries per week: 1. Top 5 Highlights of the Week: classes, experiences, visits, tours, etc. 2. Reflection for the Week: spiritual or cultural Send the entries (Word or Text File) and photos (if available) to Elia Rivera: erivera@stjosemaria.org We also welcome video entries (3 minutes max) if you prefer to record a message in lieu of the written article. The entries are due the Sunday or Monday following your assigned week. Personal Blogs: We are happy to share your personal blog posts on the Rome Experience blog and/or Facebook page. Send link(s) to the post(s) to Elia Rivera: erivera@stjosemaria.org FACEBOOK AND TWITTER New RE blog posts and any news media coverage of the program will be shared on: Facebook: theromeexperience Twitter: You are welcome to post directly on our wall or share posts from your page. Please remember to like/follow us! We also recommend inviting family and friends to connect with us for updates. PHOTOGRAPHY Your photos will be used for screen (website/blog) and for print (brochure/flyers). We recommend taking photos at a higher resolution in general. Check for rules or signs on photography when you enter a church or museum. Usually photography is allowed but NO FLASH. Some museums also offer a Photo Pass, which is the only way to take photos in the museum; these can usually be purchased at admissions or the gift shop. Please remember to take the essential RE group photos: CIAM View of St. Peter s Congregation Visits Catacombs Coliseum/Roman Forum Your photos can be uploaded and shared with us via: Flickr: theromeexperience/ Dropbox INTERVIEWS FOR THE ROME EXPERIENCE NEWSLETTER Last summer the crew from Spirit Juice Studios (Chicago) was in Rome to film and photograph the program. If you have not viewed the videos yet we highly recommend that you check them out asap ( This year we will be interviewing (in writing) 3-4 of your classmates for our newsletter. Thank you in advance for your cooperation! PRESS/MEDIA We will be sending a Press Release regarding this year s program. If you are open to being interviewed please be prepared to answer questions about the program, your experience on the program, seminary life and formation, and about yourself. If you are interviewed, remember to ask when and where the interview will appear and get the journalists contact information. Send this information to Elia Rivera (erivera@stjosemaria.org) so that we can follow up. If you have any questions, concerns, or difficulties with any of the above, please contact Elia Rivera at erivera@stjosemaria.org. I m happy to help! THE ROME EXPERIENCE 7

10 ASSIGNMENTS MEDIA ASSIGNMENTS WEEK 1: MAY 18 - MAY 23 (ON RETREAT MAY 22-26) WEEK 5: JUNE Writers Photographers Writers Photographers Michael Anani Hector Arvizu-Mancilla Omar Ayubi Mark Bredestege Stephen Kenyon David Keyes Andrew Infanger Jose Alvarez-Lopez WEEK 2: MAY 24 - MAY 30 (ON RETREAT MAY 22-26) WEEK 6: JUNE Writers Photographers Writers Photographers Michael Anani Hector Arvizu-Mancilla WEEK 3: MAY 31 - JUNE 6 Writers William Fox Jeffrey Stegbauer WEEK 4: JUNE 7-13 Omar Ayubi Mark Bredestege Photographers Zachary Cecil Roselio Fuentes-Jimenez James Porter Steven Reeves WEEK 7: JUNE 28 -JULY 1 (WRAP UP OF THE PROGRAM) Writers Everyone Jose Lopez-Vargas Bradley Nursey Arthur Taylan Photographers Matthew Reckers Daniel Seo Writers Brian German Martin Vu Photographers Christian Cone-Lombarte Eric Garcia-Concepcion COURSE MATERIALS The instructors will provide readings, syllabi and other required course materials in advance and/or in class. These and all other recommended reading materials will also be available to download at: 8 THE ROME EXPERIENCE

11 CODE OF CONDUCT SEMINARIAN CODE OF CONDUCT At the request of the Bishop s Advisory Committee, the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross, and the residences where participants will be staying, the following code of conduct has been prepared for the participants of The Rome Experience. This Code of Conduct, in addition to the rules and regulations of any host institution or residence, shall govern your participation in the program at all times. As a seminarian preparing for the priesthood, it is important to remember that many will judge the Catholic Church based on their encounter with you. Bear in mind that you are representing your Church, your bishop, and your diocese. I accept the expectation of my bishop that I conduct myself with due prudence at all times. While in public, I will wear clerical attire: a black shirt with clerical collar, black dress trousers, black dress shoes with black socks, and a black belt. With the understanding of your bishop participants may also wear a black cassock, for liturgical functions or in the residence. When not in public casual dress may be worn: trousers (no jeans or shorts) and a shirt with a collar. I will be fully dressed in the public areas of the residence (no pajamas or bare feet, shoes should be worn.) Clothes should be cleaned regularly. I will maintain attendance at all program activities and classes. I recognize that unauthorized absences are grounds for disciplinary action and possible dismissal from the program. I will observe the laws of the country in which the Program is located and all academic and disciplinary regulations in effect at all host institutions and residences. I understand that any and all illegal behavior both inside the residence, outside the residence, and in public is grounds for immediate dismissal. I understand that use of illicit drugs of any kind or the misuse of alcohol may result in immediate dismissal from the program. Use of the internet for pornographic material or the participation in any activities of an inappropriate sexual nature will result in immediate dismissal from the program. The choice of reading materials, extra-curricular amusements, and acquaintances are to be carefully considered to avoid scandal to the faithful and danger to the observance of celibate chastity. I understand that if I do not participate in program activities, if I am consistently resistant to formation, or am constantly absent from required events, I may be dismissed from the program. I will maintain good personal hygiene and grooming habits. The basic expectation is that I will shower, shave, and brush my teeth each day before the first event. I will be considerate of my roommates. When using a CD player or other electronic devices, head phones would be appropriate. Televisions are not allowed in the rooms. I understand that it is necessary to keep my room orderly and clean. I will request permission from the Program Director if I need to leave the residence, class, activity, etc., or go out alone for any reason. Participant(s) who wish to leave the residence for excursions, amusement, etc. must receive approval from one of the Program Directors, and must be accompanied by at least one other participant or a Program Director. I will address any concerns with the Directors of the Program before complaining to others. FACULTY AUTHORITY AND DISMISSAL FROM PROGRAM I understand that BAC & MTF reserves the right to dismiss me from the Program at any time should my actions or general behavior be deemed in violation of this code of conduct or should it be determined that my conduct impedes or obstructs the progress of the Program in any way, or should it, in any fashion, undermine the credibility and reputation of the Program. Should the Faculty, an Instructor, or any other official representative of The Rome Experience decide, that I must be dismissed from the Program because of a violation of these stated rules, I recognize that this decision will be final. THE ROME EXPERIENCE 9

12 INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL INFORMATION PACKING LIST REMINDER: The Rome Experience Seminarian Code of Conduct While in public, I will wear clerical attire: a black shirt with clerical collar, black dress trousers, black dress shoes with black socks, and a black belt. Participants may also wear a black cassock, for liturgical functions. When not in public casual dress may be worn: trousers (no jeans or shorts) and a shirt with a collar. I will be fully dressed in the public areas of the residence (no pajamas or bare feet, shoes should be worn.) Clothes should be cleaned regularly. PLEASE NOTE: Only one checked-in luggage per person is allowed - 44 lb. weight limit. (See Luggage Regulations for additional information from the airlines.) CARRY-ON ESSENTIALS: Change of underwear Socks Toiletries Medications Headset or earphones Earplugs Eye mask Neck pillow Electronics with cords and adaptor plugs Anything else that is essential, in case luggage gets lost! CLOTHING: Suggestion from RE Alum: I wouldn t pack too many casual clothes. The reality is we are in clerics and black slacks etc. 95% of the time on the trip. pants, black minimum 2 pair suit coat, black belt, black cassock, black cleric shirts, black minimum 3 long sleeve cleric shirt, black - 1 socks, black walking shoes/sport/canvas shoes, black sweater, black sweatshirt, black (optional) briefs/undershirts minimum 3-4 each casual clothes, one pair of khakis pants and two polotype shirts (this really is enough) athletic clothes for sports activities, swimming trunks/running shorts pajamas shower shoes robe, lightweight slippers or casual shoes for around the residence waterproof wind breaker jacket hat for sun protection (consider one that covers ears) PERSONAL ITEMS: washcloths, 2 earplugs handkerchiefs or tissue packets laundry bag detergent medicines (and copies of the prescriptions for same) sunglasses sunscreen toiletries/toothbrush/toothpaste umbrella, small folding type mosquito repellent ointment for mosquito bites plug-in mosquito repellent device student ID for admission discounts to museum and exhibits money/atm Card/Debit Card credit card camera (optional) alarm clock safety/travel wallet Breviary (not electronic) personal prayer items/devotionals (rosary, Divine Office) spiral notebooks or paper pens small flashlight for dark places zip-lock bags, for many purposes 1 gal; 2 gal are good for putting dirty or damp clothes in suitcases (also advised for keeping electric cables, adapters, other devices, etc. together for traveling esp. when it comes to security check this saves a load of time and frustration if everything is bagged up and ready to go through the checkpoint) 10 THE ROME EXPERIENCE

13 INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL INFORMATION PRESCRIPTION MEDICATIONS: Pack enough to last your entire trip, including some extra in case you are unexpectedly delayed. Carry your medications in their original labeled containers, and pack them in your carry-on bag since checked baggage is occasionally lost or delayed. Ask your pharmacy or physician for the generic equivalent name of your prescriptions in case you need to purchase additional medication abroad. Get a letter from your physician in case you are questioned about your carry-on medication; some countries have strict restrictions on bringing prescription or even non-prescription medications into the country without proper medical documentation. Gluten and Other Food Allergies: Print out a sheet in French, Spanish and Italian explaining your condition/allergy - the cooks are generally accommodating. Additional useful information provided by RE Alumni: LAUNDRY Recommendations from RE alumni: Laundromats: Fornaci Wash, Via della Fornaci, 45. New and convenient location. Steril & Clean, (divisione della Lavanderia Veneta) Viale Re Latino n. 38. Recommended by CIAM. Bring laundry detergent: either liquid or powder. I found it very easy to do laundry by hand in a sink or tub using some of my own laundry soap and then just leave my clothes out to dry. Underwear that dries quickly is a benefit, as they could rinse them in the sink in the evening and should be dry the next morning. Laundries are not all self-service. They wash, dry and fold the clothes. The one I used was close to Euroclero. The lady there is nice. For a big load it would cost about Euros. Dry cleaning. You may want to locate a dry cleaner when you arrive they are not very common. Be aware that it may take up to a week for your order and it is costly. Cassocks can be worn, but no shorts under the cassocks. You do not need an alb. Surplice is not necessary but if you have one bring it. If your room is warm, you may want a casual/sport outfit for in room use. Bring enough toiletries for the trip. USA products are not recognizable in the stores. Walking shoes should accommodate the Roman stone streets. Be prepared for heat and humidity usually toward the last 2 weeks in Rome. Don t assume you can buy the items on this list once you arrive. Last year, one of the alumni gave me the advice of taking some window screen and duct tape to cover up the window in the room at CIAM. It s quite inexpensive, and was extremely helpful! (I don t think I had one mosquito bite the whole time I was there; other guys weren t so lucky). I think this is the one I bought: Clear-Advantage-Screen-36-X-84-Fiberglass- Roll/ I m sure there are other options and kinds that can be bought. Simply make sure it is at least about 3ft X 4ft. The windows vary in size, but that should be the max. THE ROME EXPERIENCE 11

14 INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL INFORMATION ELECTRONICS Advice from RE Alumni: Check your electronic devices, many are dual electronic voltage Laptop computer* (class materials are electronic) If your computer has a microphone (usually right near camera if it has that), veterans from last year suggest getting a Google G-mail account (it s free), as you can call home (land phones, cell phones, etc.) through your G-mail when connected to the Internet, at no charge. Category 5 network cable, 5-6 feet long (test it before leaving!) Electricity voltage converter to 220V (purchase in US, expensive to purchase in Europe) Adaptor plugs for outlets (purchase in US, expensive to purchase in Europe) This was the kind I got on Amazon: Plug-Adapter-Italy-Type/dp/ B001ST6KOC/ref=sr_1_8?ie=U TF8&qid= &sr=8-8&keywords=adaptor+plugs+for+italy. They are inexpensive, purchased six and they worked just fine everywhere we were staying. Contact your cell phone service provider to make sure your phone works in Italy. You may want to purchase an international package for phone calls and data. Adapter Plugs If you re traveling outside of North America, you ll most likely need an adapter plug. All over the world, there are different types of electrical wall outlets. Unless your destination country has the same outlet configuration as your home country, you ll need an adapter. Adapter plugs do not convert electricity, they simply allow your device s plug to fit into the foreign outlet. Electricity Voltage Converters and Transformers If you re traveling with certain devices, such as older hair dryers and irons, you may also need a voltage converter or transformer. How to Determine if You Need a Transformer or Converter The label on your device will help determine if a voltage converter or transformer is necessary. This label may be: a) affixed directly to the back of the device; b) on the AC transformer box of the power supply lead; or c) molded into the plastic on the plug. It is often in very small print. The INPUT line contains the key information whether the voltage (V) is single, dual or multi. Single-voltage items have a small voltage range (such as V). These small ranges are designed to accommodate voltage fluctuations only and will not accommodate a 220V power supply. Single-voltage devices include older appliances, such as hair dryers and irons. Dual-voltage devices use a slash to separate the 2 voltages. Example: 120V/240V. Common dual-voltage devices include newer hair dryers, electric shavers and toothbrushes, irons, coffee makers and tea kettles. These do not require a transformer or converter. Multi-voltage items use a dash to indicate the range of voltages. Example: V. Common multi-voltage devices include laptops, e-readers, tablets, smartphones, cell phones, MP3 players, cameras and battery chargers. These do not require a transformer or converter. Converter or Transformer? Single-voltage electrical devices (ones that use heating elements or mechanical motors) can use a converter or a transformer. Single-voltage electronic devices (ones that use chips, circuits or electronic motors) require a transformer. Good news: Many converters operate as both a converter for high-watt electrical devices and a transformer for lowwatt electronic devices. Watts (W) is the amount of power a device uses. Low watts range up to 25W or 50W, depending on the converter. This would be typical of small personal electronics. Electrical heating units will require a high setting as they may consume 1000W to 2000W. Make sure to check the product specifications on your devices and make certain that your converter is rated for the specified power. The world runs on two types of electricity: 110/125V or 220/240V. North American devices run on 110/125V electricity while the majority of the world runs on 220/240V. Converters and transformers change the voltage of electricity to match the voltage of your device. 12 THE ROME EXPERIENCE

15 INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL INFORMATION FINANCIAL INFORMATION Make photocopies of: ATM card, credit cards, passport Leave a copy with your emergency contact Keep a copy with you Put identification information in your luggage (name, cell phone number, home address) Money for your personal expenses $300 minimum Use ATM and credit cards for the best rate in Europe Call your bank and credit card companies and let them know you will be traveling Conduct all financial transactions at reputable location savingspending/budgeting/abroad.php Get the best exchange rate. There are essentially three ways to exchange currency: converting cash at a bank before your trip, using a currency exchange service like the ones found in airports, or simply using a credit card, in which case your money is converted automatically upon making a purchase. So, which is the best option? According to an exchange rate study conducted by Card Hub, international travelers can save up to 15% by using a credit card. More specifically, major worldwide credit networks automatically provide the best exchange rates possible currently 14.7% better than the currency exchange companies that operate out of airports and 7.9% better than the average major bank. Yet you can t just open a major credit card account and expect those savings. Get a no-foreign-fee credit card. Over 90% of all credit card issuers charge foreign usage fees, which inflate the cost of any transaction processed outside the United States. No foreign transaction fee credit cards don t have these fees, however, making them perfectly suited for overseas spending. In order to use one of these cards to your full advantage, you should adhere to the following guidelines: Get your card before booking flights, hotels and activities. Foreign fees apply to purchases made through foreign-based companies whether you are outside of the U.S. or not. Make sure your credit card issuer does not charge these types of international fees before booking your trip to avoid surprises on your statement. Use a worldwide payment network. Your payment network dictates the number of merchant locations and countries in which you can use your credit card. Given that most payment networks do not provide worldwide coverage, you should check to see how much coverage your credit card affords. Consider cash and debit cards. Though the majority of your purchases abroad should be made with a credit card, you ll need some cash for cab fare and the few stores that inevitably don t accept plastic. Opening a low-foreign-fee debit card and making ATM withdrawals during your trip is the least expensive way to access cash, as the low exchange rate that applies to credit cards also applies to debit card transactions. If you d rather not worry about finding an ATM as soon as you arrive in a foreign country, convert a small amount of cash at a local bank before you leave. In doing so, keep in mind the following tips: Compare bank exchange rates. Currently, an 11.9% disparity exists between the exchange rates offered by the best and worst banks for currency conversion, according to Card Hub s study. Watch out for fees. Some banks might charge shipping or processing fees, so make sure to inquire about extra charges before agreeing to a conversion. Convert just the right amount. Convert enough cash to comfortably cover your initial expenses but not more than you feel comfortable carrying with you. Consider these final tips. Regardless of which debit or credit card you use while traveling overseas, it s important to: Call your issuer before leaving. Make sure to notify your bank of the exact countries and territories where you ll be traveling. If you don t, your cards may be suspended for suspicion of fraud. Avoid dynamic currency conversion. Merchants may offer to convert the price of a purchase from the local currency into U.S. dollars. While in most cases, this may be meant to help customers who aren t familiar with the exchange rate, some merchants offer dynamic currency conversion in order to apply an unfavorable exchange rate to a transaction and increase their profits. Luckily, avoiding this money-waster is as simple as declining any merchant overtures and making sure to only sign bills or receipts expressed in the local coin. And if you want to quickly translate a price into U.S. dollars, why not use your cell phone or any other device with a calculator? Overseas travel is expensive, but it doesn t have to be unaffordable. As long as you make sure to carry a credit card without foreign fees, get the best possible exchange rate when converting cash, and avoid costly merchant tricks, a post-trip look at your bank account shouldn t result in any surprises. THE ROME EXPERIENCE 13

16 MEDICAL ATTENTION In an emergency contact Fr Eric Nielsen or any immediate staff member. For non-emergency medical attention in Rome contact: Dr. David Lazaro Medical Doctor of Villa Tevere Campus Biomedico Cell: Gluten and Other Food Allergies: Print out a sheet in French, Spanish and Italian explaining your condition/allergy - the cooks are generally accommodating. If you take prescription medication: Pack enough to last your entire trip, including some extra in case you are unexpectedly delayed. Carry your medications in their original labeled containers, and pack them in your carry-on bag since checked baggage is occasionally lost or delayed. Ask your pharmacy or physician for the generic equivalent name of your prescriptions in case you need to purchase additional medication abroad. Get a letter from your physician in case you are questioned about your carry-on medication; some countries have strict restrictions on bringing prescription or even non-prescription medications into the country without proper medical documentation. 14 THE ROME EXPERIENCE

17 MAPS AND DIRECTIONS CIAM TO PUSC SIMPLE WALKING DIRECTIONS START: Via Urbano VIII, Walk down the hill and across the bridge (Ponte Vittore Emmanuelle II) and cross the street to the other side. 2. Turn LEFT, cross the street and walk along Lungotevere dei Fiorentini the street that runs along the Tiber river. 3. Turn RIGHT onto Via di Panico (it will be the first street after you walk past the Ponte Sant Angelo.) 4. Turn LEFT onto Via dei Coronari. 5. Via dei Coronari opens into Piazza di Tor Sanguigna keep walking straight along Piazza di Tor Sanguigna. 6. Turn LEFT onto Piazza di Sant Apollinare (you will see the university on your left.) 7. Enter the main gate and check in at the security desk letting them know you are with the Rome Experience. END: Piazza di Sant Apollinare, 49 THE ROME EXPERIENCE 15

18 16 THE ROME EXPERIENCE

19 MAPS AND DIRECTIONS UNIVERSITY OF SAINT MARY OF THE LAKE (MUNDELEIN) THE ROME EXPERIENCE 17

20 2015 CLASS DIRECTORY MICHAEL ANANI Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph Holy Apostles Seminary Ordination 2018 HECTOR ARVIZU-MANCILLA Diocese of Tyler Notre Dame Seminary Ordination 2018 OMAR AYUBI Archdiocese of Miami St. Vincent de Paul Seminary Ordination 2018 MARK BREDESTEGE Archdiocese of Cincinnati Mt. St. Mary s of the West Seminary ZACHARY CECIL Archdiocese of Cincinnati Mt. St. Mary s of the West Seminary CHRISTIAN CONE-LOMBARTE Archdiocese of Cincinnati Mt. St. Mary s of the West Seminary WILLIAM FOX Diocese of Kansas City St. Joseph Holy Apostles Seminary Ordination 2018 ROSELIO FUENTES-JIMENEZ Diocese of Tyler Notre Dame Seminary ERIC GARCIA-CONCEPCION Diocese of Mayaguez in Puerto Rico Pope St. John XXIII Seminary Ordination 2017 Ordination 2018 BRIAN GERMAN Archdiocese of Miami St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary ANDREW INFANGER Archdiocese of Milwaukee St. Francis de Sales Seminary Ordination 2018 STEPHEN KENYON Archdiocese of Portland Mount Angel Seminary 18 THE ROME EXPERIENCE

21 2015 CLASS DIRECTORY DAVID KEYES Diocese of Madison Mount Saint Mary s Seminary Ordination 2018 JOSE LOPEZ-ALVAREZ Archdiocese of Miami St. Vincent de Paul Regional Seminary JOSE LOPEZ-VARGAS Diocese of Green Bay St. Francis de Sales Seminary Ordination 2018 BRADLEY NURSEY Diocese of Gaylord Pontifical College Josephinum Ordination 20 JAMES PORTER Diocese of Tulsa Mt. St. Mary s of the West Seminary Ordination 2018 MATTHEW RECKERS Archdiocese of Cincinnati Mt. St. Mary s of the West Seminary 17 STEVEN REEVES Archdiocese Louisville Saint Meinrad Seminary DANIEL SEO Diocese of Orange St. John s Seminary JEFFREY STEGBAUER Archdiocese of Cincinnati Mount St. Mary s of the West Seminary ARTHUR TAYLAN Archdiocese of Los Angeles St. John s Seminary MARTIN VU Diocese of Orange St. John s Seminary THE ROME EXPERIENCE 19

22 THE ROME EXPERIENCE A SUMMER PROGRAM FOR DIOCESAN SEMINARIANS ADVISORY BOARD AND STAFF His Eminence James Cardinal Stafford Major Penitentiary Emeritus of the Apostolic Penitentiary Most Rev. David R. Choby Diocese of Nashville Most Rev. James D. Conley Diocese of Lincoln Most Rev. Robert W. Finn Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph Most Rev. Bernard A. Hebda Archdiocese of Newark Most Rev. Robert C. Morlino Diocese of Madison Most Rev. Alexander K. Sample Archdiocese of Portland Most Rev. Kevin W. Vann Diocese of Orange EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Rev. James Socias Midwest Theological Forum ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR Mrs. Charmaine D. Roth Midwest Theological Forum PROGRAM DIRECTOR Rev. Eric Nielsen Diocese of Madison ASSISTANT PROGRAM DIRECTOR Rev. Ronald W. Cattany Archdiocese of Denver DIRECTOR OF SPIRITUAL FORMATION Rev. Christopher M. Mahar Diocese of Providence MARKETING & DEVELOPMENT Miss Elia Rivera St. Josemaria Institute 4340 CROSS ST., STE. 1, DOWNERS GROVE, IL PHONE X28 FAX INFO@THEROMEEXPERIENCE.ORG facebook.com/theromeexperience flickr.com/theromeexperience twitter.com/rome_exp