2020 will go down in the history books as a year like no other, and indeed this has been the case since staff and students arrived back in Rome in September. Due to the uncertainty about travel restrictions, quarantine and testing, fourteen students from the College decided to remain in Rome throughout the Christmas break, and travelled to Palazzola to spend Christmas in the Alban Hills.

Many students decided to take advantage of the sun to visit a good number of the hill towns around Palazzola. There were walks to Castel Gandolfo and Nemi; and some students made a pilgrimage to Tusculum for Mass. This was a particularly poignant moment as this pilgrimage usually takes place annually during the villeggiatura, which could not take place this year due to the pandemic. It was therefore a wonderful opportunity to have the chance to keep up the yearly tradition and follow in the footsteps of the many students who have walked this route over many decades.

Fr Alex Balzanella celebrating Mass at Tusculum

Despite having time to relax after a long term, there was much preparation to do in order that the Christmas liturgies could be celebrated in a fitting way. All the students participated in one way or another, such as by planning the music, reading, serving, and decorating the church. We were delighted to be joined by several students from the Pontifical North American College for a service of nine lessons and carols, as well as by members of the Lay Centre who were staying at the villa over Christmas.

Our time at Palazzola culminated in a solemn midnight Mass celebrated by the Rector, which included many Christmas carols. Despite the need for face masks and social distancing, it was a wonderful way to celebrate the Nativity of Our Lord and a sign that His light still shines during these dark times. On Christmas morning the Academic Tutor, Fr James McAuley, celebrated Mass before the celebrations continued for the rest of the day.

Fr Rector incensing the altar during Midnight Mass

Even though this Christmas was a unique one, it was throughly enjoyed by all staff, students and guests. We are indebted to the hospitality and generosity provided by the staff at Palazzola, and we thank them for making our time there as enjoyable as it was.

Christmas at Palazzola