Doctor Arianna

Studying was hard. There were classes to attend—first in person at university, then online from home when the pandemic hit. But Arianna didn't lose heart. She found a way. She organized herself, worked out the technique. She studied on her computer with her mother Silvana, backed by the whole family: her father Rosario, her sister Valentina, her brother-in-law, and the newest arrival, her little niece. Everyone was cheering for her. And she amazed them all. Step by step, she made it to graduation. On Saturday, April 9, 2022, Arianna Giuliano was awarded her degree from the Catholic University of Milan in Media Languages with a score of 100 out of 110! I was so happy I organized a surprise party for her. With a small team, we divided up the work and in just a few days—mission accomplished. Balloons, pizza, games, an interview with a strict red theme. We celebrated the simple way, with friends from Faith and Light. She's a good example for all of us. Her determination. Her refusal to give up, to keep going. Now that she's reached this milestone, new victories and new horizons await. Her steadiness and passion helped her realize her dream. Her hunger to know, to learn, to understand—these gave her the strength to take important steps forward. What's next? Full speed ahead!

(Flora Atlante, Milan)

From Across Italy

Dear friends, I was so glad to be there for the blessing of the Faith and Light and Shadows and Light office! It was wonderful to see old friends and to meet Matteo, Roberto Bertin, and Father Marco Bove, who performed the blessing. Members of the Board of Directors had come from Rome, Monopoli, Milan, and Messina for their meeting. Representatives from Rome's communities were there too—from San Roberto, San Gregorio, San Francesco, Sant'Anna, and my own community. We attended Mass at the parish of San Giuseppe Cottolengo, and after the noon Mass, Pietro Vetro spoke—standing near Stefano Zaccaria—to the neighborhood people to explain what Faith and Light is. During his homily, the pastor had the children explain the Gospel. After Mass, there was a small reception.

(Gabriella Buongiorno, Rome)