Brescia Restaurateurs Attend Jubilee in Rome, Meet the Pope
The Arthob delegation in the capital for the Jubilee. Restaurateurs head to Rome for the Pope’s blessing. Wojtyla: “You are the protagonists of horizontal communion.”
Rome is worth a pause, and the right time is precisely now, situated between the fully booked summer season and the hectic Christmas period. This was the sentiment for Brescia restaurateurs who recently celebrated their Jubilee. The pilgrimage initiative had been planned well in advance. With the kitchen possibly resting or with the service entrusted to trusted hands, a solid group representing the Associazione ristoranti trattorie hosterie bresciana set out, gathering in front of their headquarters on via Malta. Among the 49 participants, the sector was well represented across its various components: from large hotels in the suburbs to city residences, from popular restaurants to traditional local venues.
The journey and the stops
The executive board was almost fully present, including President Beppe Dattoli, Vice President Mauro Mondini, and Secretary Beppe Rocca. The weather was not always favorable, especially during stops in Orvieto and visits to Roman landmarks, but despite a few rain showers and breaks in the weather, the schedule was adhered to, with some pleasant deviations such as strolling among illuminated fountains in the unexpected quiet of the nocturnal city and an impromptu twinning where a banner was exchanged with a colleague who demonstrated excellent Roman cuisine.
The most important pause, providentially granted by bad weather, occurred on the morning of the papal audience. The alarm was set for dawn, allowing the group to secure a good spot in St. Peter’s Square in time. Their dedication paid off, and everyone had the emotional experience of greeting the Pope up close. Amid a crowd of at least ten thousand—including young people from San Francisco, the Boavista Football Club, and the Brasília choir—Brescia restaurateurs also made their presence felt when noted. The Pope’s homily was dedicated to the Eucharist, “as a symbol of unity and charity.” John Paul II spoke of a “vertical communion” between humanity and God, and a “horizontal brotherly communion,” shared through bread and wine.
The message and cultural activities
His words resonated with those who live daily the art of setting tables and serving meals. Clouds heavy with rain reappeared in the afternoon; however, inside the Basilica and the Vatican Museums, they no longer interfered. Established to elevate the professionalism of local operators, and constantly organizing training and update initiatives, Arthob has never neglected the need to create moments of gathering to foster mutual understanding and collaboration towards common goals.
The October fest, the Christmas dinner, and the New Year’s celebration for restaurateurs are now unmissable events during the social year, but the Jubilee year deserved special recognition. Accustomed to meeting for work or celebration, restaurateurs found this time a moment of spiritual harmony. e.n.