Farewell, Poschiavo!
Before I left, I bid farewell to the faithful parish sacristan, Gabriella Costa. You’ve seen her grandson, Riccardo, in the last post.She has taken care of the liturgical environment for 21 years. The church is spotless with her dedicated attention to the linens, the flowers that she arranges, and overall care of the sanctuary. Gabriella is always gracious shen she sees me, and tells me I am younger every visit. (She does wear glasses!) Thank you, Gabriella for your kindness to me and your dedication to the parish. I wish you many more years in your important and dedicated ministry.
On Friday, I concelebrated Mass with Don Davide at San Bernard. He had a meeting after Mass, so Graziano and I went to dinner. Although the name of the place is quite famous in the US, the American owner was not in residence….(ie. President Trump!). My last dinner in the valley was an enjoyable evening and Don Davide was able to join us for dessert and coffee at Miralogo!
On Saturday morning, we departed Poschiavo in Graziano’s brand new Suzuki SUV that he picked up that morning. It’s one of the first in the whole canton, and I must say, I was impressed with this new hybrid vehicle. Great pickup, very comfortable drive, and great storage space. Riccardo joined us for the four hour journey over three mountain passes to bring us to Lugano.
After stopping for lunch in Tiefencastel, we continued to the Canton of Ticino. My arrangements were made by another friend, Andrea, who you will meet this week. We arrived at the Casa Santa Birgitta, owned and operated by the Sisters of St. Bridget of Sweden. Most of the 14 Sisters are from India and the Philippines. I opened the door on the private balcony, and there was Lugano as the backdrop. Beautiful location.
After bidding Graziano and Riccardo farewell, I went to the roof terrace at the smiling suggestion of the Sister at the reception desk. OMG! There on my right was one of the famous landmarks of Lugano, Monte San Salvatore. I’ve been looking at it on a webcam for quite some time; and there it was! Rising high above the famous lake, it promises to offer an incredible view of the whole region. I can’t wait to take the clog train to its summit.
Ciao, Lugano! Hello, Lugano! Let the ministry experience begin!