ICTE

Institute for Continuing Theological Education Update

REV. EDWARD LINTON, OSB, DIRECTOR OF ICTE

On August 16, 1810, while avoiding stormy weather in the Mediterranean and at port in Cagliari (Sardinia), the American Merchant Ship Hercules surrendered to the HMS Pomone. The HMS Pomone was a British frigate of 38 canons which had already distinguished itself in the Napoleonic Wars then raging in Europe. However, almost by accident, it was about to obtain its most prized trophy when the freight of the Hercules was brought on board the HMS Pomone. Eight days earlier, the Hercules left Civitavecchia (Italy) bound for Philadelphia. On board was Lucian Bonaparte, his wife Alexandrine, their seven children, and a retinue of over 25 servants. Lucian had a contentious relationship with his older brother, Napoleon, and decided to flee with his family to the United States of America. King George III, having received news of the human cargo recently brought on to the HMS Pomone, was not about to let that happen. He understood their usefulness in making propaganda against Napoleon Bonaparte with whom he was involved in a bitter struggle. Therefore, Lucian Bonaparte, his family, and their retinue were transferred to England where they were greeted warmly by a public that felt they shared a common foe. Among the seven children on board the Hercules and bound for the USA was Lucian’s oldest daughter, 15-year-old Charlotte Bonaparte, whom the family called “Lolotte.” Following her Uncle Napoleon’s defeat, Charlotte returned to Rome and married Prince Mario Gabrielli. The princely seat of his family and where the couple lived, was the Villa Gabrielli, which we now call “The Casa O’Toole.” Though Charlotte Bonaparte never made it to the USA because of the surrender of the Hercules, one can say that the USA came to her! As the Princess Gabrielli, Charlotte Bonaparte was known in elite social circles for her intellect and stimulating conversation. An avid collector of books, she possessed an active and curious mind. In an age before radio, television, and internet, she invited interesting people to speak to friends at her Palazzo, which is now home to the Institute for Continuing Theological Education (ICTE). Indeed, the Casa O’Toole continues her grand tradition of expanding minds by inviting interesting people to speak to priests who have come to Rome for continuing education! Space is still available for our Spring 2023 Program which runs from January 9 to April 3. Presentations offer an opportunity for priests to refresh and deepen their understanding of Scripture, Medical Ethics, Preaching, and much more. An optional pilgrimage to the Holy Land is scheduled for February 23-March 3 (for an additional fee). All participants will participate in a retreat in Assisi from March 19 to March 24. We are now accepting applications for our Autumn 2023 programs. The theme of these programs is Marian Theology. Module 1 (September 4-29), Module 2 (October 3-21), and Module 3 (October 23-November 18) may be taken together or separately. If you can’t be free for all three modules, why not consider making a mini-sabbatical by enrolling in only one or two of the modules? For more information about our Sabbatical and Continuing Education programs, please write romeshabat@pnac.org. n

Rev. Edward Linton, O.S.B., Director of ICTE, stands in front of the Casa O’Toole, which was once the home of Charlotte Bonaparte and now serves as the residence for ICTE participants.