Just steps from the Colosseum is the Basilica of San Clemente, one of Rome's oldest churches, dating back to 385 AD. Dedicated to Pope Clement III, the third pope after Saint Peter, the church was built on the site of ancient Roman structures and the remains of a pagan temple.
This church not only connects with Rome's past but also maintains a special link with Chicago, where a replica exists.
JOY HENNINGSEN
Archdiocese of Chicago
I came in and I, you know, just took my breath away because not only the appearance is so similar to the one in Chicago. And I can show you the picture where it's, you know, very similar. It just felt like home the second I walked in and I just was moved to tears.
FATHER KENNETH SIMPSON
Archdiocese of Chicago
We feel very much at home here. First of all, the the Tree of Life fresco is or the mosaic is, is very much like our church in Chicago and and the floors with the circles, as soon as everyone walked in, they just felt, wow, this this just feels very much at home. It's the same coloring and everything.
Rome and Chicago, the birthplace of Pope Leo XIV, are now more united than ever. Led by the Hortus Foundation, this Basilica has been given a facelift.
CHUCK JACOBSON
Archdiocese of Chicago
Very strong connection between the two churches and when we learned that this was part of the journey, we were all in favor of coming and to hear about the the restoration project that's going on there, It's also really important to my wife and I.
For the pilgrims from Chicago, this visit became an emotional and cultural bridge, making them feel close to their sister parish thousands of miles away.
BAM
TR: GS
