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The Station for today is in the church of St. Vitalis, martyr, the father of the two illustrious Milanese martyrs, Sts. Gervasius and Protasius. It was built about 400, and consecrated by Pope Innocent I in 401/2. The dedication to St. Vitalis and his family was given in 412. The church has been rebuilt several times, of which the most comprehensive rebuilding was that of Pope Sixtus IV before the 1475 Jubilee. It was then granted to Clerics Regular.

Interior of St. Vitalis

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Day XVII. Friday, Week II.

"Lord, may this communion so change our lives that we may seek more faithfully the salvation it promises. Grant this through Christ our Lord. Amen" (Prayer after Communion for today).

San Vitale. Tradition holds that Saint Vitale was a Christian soldier stationed near Milan during the time of emperor Marcus Aurelius (161-180). When he encouraged others who were being martyred, he was racked. (See woodcut from door.) Afterwards, according to the frescos in this ancient church, he was thrown into a pit and
buried alive. The basilica was consecrated by Pope St. Innocent I (401) and is really quite remarkable. Evidently, from the fresco in the apse and the woodcut from the door, it was also a place of great devotion towards Simon the Cyrenian, who was enlisted to carry the cross for Jesus.

continued...see photo...



			Day XVII. Friday, Week II. more photos ...San Vitale, woodcut from the door...


	Day XVII. Friday, Week II.