Santa Maria in Aracoeli

Then Jesus called the twelve together and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, and he sent them out to proclaim the kingdom of God and to heal. – Luke 9:1-2

For all its glory, Santa Maria in Aracoeli is a church few have heard about outside of Rome. Indeed, it is considered to be the church of the Italian Senate and Roman People. It has also been in existence for quite some time – the foundation of the church was built perhaps as early as the middle of the first century, although it didn’t reach its final form (including its imposing 124 step climb to the top) until 1348. From the outside, however, it is hardly remarkable.

One of the reasons this lovely church is dear to many Italian hearts is the Santo Bambino, a figure of the Christ child carved out of olive wood from the Gethsemane gardens. It is reported to have miraculous healing powers, and people come visit from all over the world to pray at its feet. People even mail in requests, and the altar where the statue sits is filled with piles of prayers. The original was stolen in 1994, but the replica that stands there today is reputed to have the same power - and if the legends are true, whoever stole it is suffering greatly, as past thieves have been forced to return the statue to alleviate their sufferings! The statue is brought out on Christmas Eve midnight mass, and stays in a manger in the church until Epiphany, when it is returned to its altar in a side chapel.

The church is full of artistic treasures, including frescoes by Pinturicchio, a tombstone by Donatello, and multiple columns 'borrowed' from ancient Roman ruins. Its arches and lamps truly bear testimony to its name: Our Lady of the Altar of Heaven. It was peaceful when we were there, with hardly anyone around - a perfect time and place to pray for the healing of those we know and love, and those who simply need our prayer even if we've never met.

God of mercy, through whom we have healing, your Son made the broken whole in body and soul. Tend to our wounds, whether physical, emotional or spiritual, and give us the peace that only you can provide. In your name we pray, Amen.