Domus Australia in Rome celebrates 4th anniversary with lamingtons

A celebratory lamington cake was prepared by the Domus chefs.
Australia’s Ambassador to the Holy See, John McCarthy, catches up with Domus Australia’s Guest Services Manager, Annie Casey.

On 18 October 2015, staff and friends of Domus Australia celebrated the 4th anniversary of the official opening of the guest house with a special Mass in its magnificent Chapel of St Peter Chanel, commemorating also the 5th anniversary of the canonisation of St Mary of the Cross Mackillop, patron of the Diocese of Parramatta.

The principal celebrant for Mass was Cardinal George Pell, who now resides in Rome as the Prefect of the Secretariat for the Economy.

It was Cardinal Pell’s vision to create this home-away-from-home for Australian pilgrims travelling to Rome. On 19 October 2011, Pope Benedict XVI conducted the opening ceremony and blessing of this unique guest house.

Last month’s Mass was concelebrated by the resident Rector of Domus, Rev Terry Bell, Rev Conor Steadman (recently ordained for the Archdiocese of Perth), Rev Trenton Van Reesch (recently ordained for the Archdiocese of Canberra & Goulburn) and other Australian clergy.

In attendance for the celebrations were Australia’s Ambassador to the Holy See, John McCarthy, representatives of the architects and restorers who worked on the Domus Australia project and special guests.

A celebratory lamington cake was prepared by the Domus chefs.

The Business Manager of the Archdiocese of Sydney, Michael Digges, said since opening its doors, Domus Australia had welcomed guests from all over Australia and from all over the world.

Ranked in Rome’s top 20 on TripAdvisor, the reviews say it all, with many referring to this boutique guest house as ‘their home in Rome’. In 2015, Domus Australia was again awarded a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence and has had an average review rating of 5 out of 5 since opening.

“Our guests have shared their experiences with friends and family and the level of repeat visits is a significant part of the business,” Mr Digges said.

“We have managed to combine a traditional Roman guest house with an Australian flavour, including a full hot Aussie breakfast, English-speaking staff, and excellent Wi-Fi, tea and coffee facilities in the spacious guest rooms.”

Domus Australia is preparing for an even busier 2016, with the Jubilee Year of Mercy commencing on 13 December this year.

Background information on ‘your home in Rome’

Established by the Archdiocese of Sydney with the support of other Australian dioceses, Domus Australia is an authentic Italian 32-room guest house located centrally in Rome.

It is within walking distance of the Spanish Steps, key shopping areas and the city’s major cultural attractions.

The light-filled spacious rooms, large ensuite bathrooms, friendly staff, cleanliness and full hot Aussie breakfast are major drawcards.

The historic building and chapel are home to a number of 19th and 20th Century artworks, which have been beautifully and faithfully restored by a team of Roman art specialists.

Mass in English is celebrated every day for guests and visitors to Rome.

To make a reservation:

Call (02) 9390 5980 in Australia

Email reservations@domusaustralia.org

Visit www.domusaustralia.org

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