In Lisbon today after traveling thru the beautiful Portugal countryside. We had mass at the chapel of the black Madonna with Deacon Ken and Father Michael at Nazare (Naz-e-ray) high atop the beautiful cliffs with the amazing beaches below. It was extremely windy but we were simply tourists soaking in the breathtaking sites - crazy, wind-blown hair and all!
We then drove to Santarem (San-ta-rem) to see the Eucharistic miracle there. There are few words that can explain how my heart and spirit felt at that place on this day - it was probably the most emotional, spiritual time of my life. I felt closer to Jesus that day than I have since traveling to Israel 2 years ago. The difference is Jesus was present at Santarem on this day - He had been at the places we visited in Israel. The distinction is subtle but the emotions were extremely varied. I witnessed a most profound mystery and miracle in that bloody host - preserved since the 13th century - that goes so far beyond my comprehension or writing ability.
Below is a photograph of what we saw (taken from the Internet as we were not permitted to take any pictures inside St. Stephen's church where the Eucharistic miracle is located). If you are interested in the story associated to this miracle (it is very interesting) - please go here to read. This miracle has been authenticated by the Catholic Church.
Our day ended at our hotel in Lisbon - very near the river "Rio Tejo" and the beautiful "golden gate bridge" of Portugal (built by the same architect as our own Golden Gate bridge in San Francisco). We had a lovely dinner at our hotel and enjoyed some live opera music from some local talent. Exhausted - I feel into a deep sleep!