Open-air chapel makes connections with Italy's Gypsy community

Published: 2004-09-28

ROME (CNS) -- Italy's first chapel for Gypsies is an open-air structure without walls, reflecting the Gypsies' spirituality. Situated in a field next to a popular Marian sanctuary on the outskirts of Rome, the place of worship is composed of 12 stone mounds arranged in a circle, a form that recalls the family bonfire and camp of Gypsy culture. About 100 Gypsies joined Rome diocesan officials for the chapel's inaugural Mass Sept. 26. Among the worshipers was Maria Caramella, who said she felt right at home. She and her 10 children, who live at a Gypsy settlement not far away, have been coming to the sanctuary for years. Proud of her culture, the 52-year old Gypsy, or Roma, wore what she calls "traditional" attire: a long black floral skirt and a gold choker necklace boasting a medallion that she says is her good luck charm. "I never imagined that they would celebrate us," Caramella said. "This came as a surprise, and we are very happy because we are very faithful to God."

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