It's kind of like Sauron gathering all evil to himself . . .

:-)

What I think it is, is that a number of people looking at the world around us and are becoming concerned with what the future holds. When onw worries about change, one looks for the unchanging. And Rome is a rock. Literally.

Unfortunately for some of us still in the battlefield in TEC, crossing the Tiber is not an option. In my family's experience (and that includes some very un-Christian Catholics), we have not seen the draw. But we do wish you well and pray only that we all follow the path God lights for us. Light some candles and say some prayers for those still in the battle. Don't know where this refugee and family will end up...but it will never be as it was in any event. Besides - I still like St. Christopher!