Antonio

The Church of San Girolamo della Carità became his main base of operation.

Here he began to gather laypeople and clergy who were inspired by his spiritual teachings and joyful personality.

He moved out of the caccia attic, but into a similarly small and simple living space.

Philip Neri, the priest, said Mass every day now.

and the new Father Neri could read souls.

Yeah, Father Philip, you're very, uh, creative about your penances.

Is that a bad thing, Antonio?

No, no, it's just, it's just unique.

And definitely makes me think twice before I dive into the same old sins again.

As it should.

Cheers to Father Philip.

Will I see you there?

Of course.

And we can stay after if you need any help in the hostel.

Excellent.

As a man of science, Doctor, I'm sure you will be dumbfounded by what I discovered the first time I was to serve Mass with Father Neri.

At this point, Antonio, nothing would surprise me.

I knew of his overnight visits to the catacombs, his odd penance of plucking a chicken, but none of these things prepared me for what I was about to experience.

It was a very cold day in the middle of winter.

I was to have the privilege to serve Mass with Father Neri.