Eva’s Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity in Rome

I had the amazing, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to go to Rome for a week with my mom and attend the funeral of Pope Francis.

We thought we were going to Rome for the canonization of Carlo Acutis, but because of the sudden death of Pope Francis, we were there at the right time to attend his funeral. We were in Rome during the Jubilee Year of Hope and were able to walk through the Holy Doors at two of Rome’s major basilicas (St. Peter’s Basilica and St. John Lateran).

How did homeschooling help you achieve your goal?

The once-in-a-lifetime experience to go to Rome and also attend a Pope’s funeral would not have happened if I had not homeschooled. I was able to finish my schoolwork before the trip and not miss school while I was gone. I learned so much on the trip about their culture, the Catholic Faith, architecture, and art of the time of and before Jesus.

What are your interests?

One of my favorite things to do is play my violin.

Homeschooling has been a big help because when I have had auditions, I have been able to practice and focus on it so much more. Also, I really like swimming on the swim team and helping out with my eight siblings.

What are you inspired to do with your life?

I am inspired to do something in nursing.

I have not decided what kind of nursing I will do, but nursing is a way of showing people how much I care for them, like Jesus did.

What are your favorite subjects and why?

My favorite subject is Religion because you learn so much about our faith, and there is always more to learn about it. Religion also helps me to be a better person, and I want to be the best person I can be.

The photo was taken in St. Peter’s Basilica immediately after we saw Pope Francis lying in state.