For those of you reading who don’t know, one of the biggest news stories this past week has been the election of a new pope to head the Roman Catholic Church. Yesterday it was announced that the cardinals had elected Jorge Mario Bergoglio, a Jesuit from South America, to be Pope Francis. He is the first pope from the Americas and the first non-European pope in 1200 years. He also happens to be the first ever, pope Francis. Though he is from Buenos Aires, his parents were Italian immigrants. I love Rome and I wish I could be there now to experience the energy and excitement of this historical moment in time.
The candles you see in the photograph are traditional altar votives found in Catholic churches. I’m a big fan of real candles and not the electric replacements you see so often now.
Though this is not a religious blog, it just seems like the right time to share this photograph.
All materials copyright Penny Sadler 2012 – 2013
Adventures of a Carry-on 
beautiful photo, penny! i love the colors.
That is a pretty photo and I agree; real candles are so much nicer. They add a scent of melting wax that I associate with old churches and altars.
Thanks for stopping by Jennifer. I like the ritual of lighting the candle. You just don’t get that with an electric candle.
I love going into churches when I travel, regardless of denomination. They often offer a place of quiet respite to sit and collect my thoughts. If they have a place to light candles I usually do so, even if it’s just to give thanks for visiting that beautiful, peaceful church.