The
penitentiary, planned by the
architects R. Schrimieri, F.
Genco, M. Caprioni, has been
inaugurated on the 10th may 1986,
to celebrate the 17th centenary
of the conversion of Saint Augustine.
It is open during the periods of major visitations, but it is possible to request
to visit it even when it is closed.
The Sacrament of Reconciliation
is celebrated here; there are
several priest confessors available,
speaking the most common languages;
nevertheless, it is possible
to enter for just a simple visit.
Its
originality is truly unique;
it is structured as a way of
catechese and conversion, with
the aid of some masterpieces
and some filmshow. The artist
Armand Marrocco, who comes from
Puglia, has realized the different
works, matching also the colours
of the various halls.
This penitentiary
is considered a beauty and it
is indicated by the experts of
theology and pastoral as an outstanding
example of the sacrament of Reconciliation's
renewal.
Outside of the penitentiary,
the pilgrim finds the source
of life, a large split rock;
the water flows inside the fissures,
while some bronze doves come
there to drink. This source symbolizes
the true source of life, that's
the love of God, living and operating
into the sacraments of Salvation.
The
4 cardinal virtues are represented
on the shutters of the entrance's
door.
Just after entering, the
pilgrim finds himself into the
reception hall, where he can
observe
the sculpture of the merceful
Father embracing the
prodigal son,
and a mosaic rainbow,
as a memorial of the alliance
established by God
with Noah
and Mankind.
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