THE
SEASON
JUBILEE
Our recent Jubilee Year of Hope Pilgrimage to Italy was an unforgettable journey, deeply enriching our faith and offering a profound connection to centuries of religious history. We traveled to several key spiritual centers, including Venice, Padua, Florence, Assisi, and Rome, each offering a unique chapter in our pilgrimage.
Throughout our travels, we experienced a profound sense of devotion and witnessed countless sacred sites, which collectively deepened our understanding and appreciation for our Catholic heritage. This pilgrimage allowed us to connect with the living history of our faith in truly remarkable ways, an experience that will resonate with us long after our return.
To share a piece of this remarkable journey, Saint Paul the Apostle Catholic Church now has an exhibit open, featuring aspects of our pilgrimage! Each month will feature one of our visits!
VENICE
July 1st-31st
Our first stop on the pilgrimage was the iconic city of Venice, a truly unique destination that immediately immersed us in its historical and spiritual ambiance. A profound highlight of our time there was our visit to Saint Mark's Basilica, a breathtaking masterpiece of Byzantine architecture. We were incredibly blessed to attend Mass within its sacred space, specifically in the revered Crypt, an incredibly moving experience that connected us directly to centuries of worship. Beyond this spiritual awe, we also embraced a quintessential Venetian experience with a serene Gondola ride, gliding through the intricate canals of Venice.
Beyond these specific moments, our time in Venice was also spent extensively touring the city itself, allowing us to discover its various enchanting neighborhoods and less-traveled pathways, which gave us a deeper appreciation for its unique history and intricate design. A particularly fascinating experience was witnessing a glass-making show, where master artisans demonstrated the age-old techniques that have made Murano glass world-renowned. This captivating display offered insights into the creation of Venice's finest glass artistry, from modern pieces to exquisite antiques, truly showcasing the delicate skill and rich heritage behind these beautiful works.
PADUA
August 1st-31st
Our pilgrimage continued to Padua, a city steeped in spiritual significance and home to remarkable sacred sites. A key visit was to Saint Justina Basilica, a magnificent and ancient church where we were deeply moved to see what are believed to be the remains of Saint Luke the Evangelist. From there, we made our way to the globally renowned Saint Anthony's Basilica, a pivotal destination for pilgrims. Inside, we were incredibly blessed to attend Mass within its sacred space, a truly moving experience. Following Mass, we were profoundly touched to visit the tomb of Saint Anthony, offering prayers and moments of reflection. Our experience was further enriched by seeing the venerated relics of the thorn, his tongue, and esophagus, as well as viewing his original tomb and various garments, providing a tangible connection to the life and enduring sanctity of this beloved saint.
FLORENCE
September 1st-30th
Our journey then led us to Florence, a city renowned as the cradle of the Renaissance, where spiritual devotion intertwines seamlessly with artistic brilliance. We were immediately struck by the awe-inspiring Duomo, Florence Cathedral, a monumental testament to faith and human ingenuity. Our explorations continued at Santa Croce Basilica, a revered Franciscan church known as the "Temple of the Italian Glories," where we encountered more sacred relics and paid our respects in a place of immense historical significance. A visit to the Baptistry captivated us with its famous "Gates of Paradise," the stunning gold doors depicting biblical scenes. Finally, we immersed ourselves in the unparalleled artistry at the Accademia Gallery (or similar museum where David is housed), standing in humble admiration before Michelangelo's iconic Statue of David, and also observing his powerful unfinished statues, which offered a unique glimpse into the master's creative process.
ASSISI
October 1st-31st
Our journey next brought us to Assisi, a town radiating peace and the spiritual legacy of its beloved saints. A central part of our visit was to Santa Maria degli Angeli (Saint Mary of the Angels Basilica), a truly significant site built around the humble origins of the Franciscan order. Here, we were blessed to attend Mass within its sacred walls, a truly moving experience where we also had the profound opportunity to see Carlo Acutis. Inside the Basilica, we were deeply moved to see the tiny hut of Saint Francis (the Porziuncola) where he lived, alongside the remarkable thornless rosebush associated with his life. We also encountered a reverent statue of St. Francis, reminding us of his enduring presence. Our explorations led us to appreciate the serene beauty of the surrounding Parco del Monte Subasio, the landscape where St. Francis found so much inspiration. Finally, a highlight was our visit to the magnificent Saint Francis Basilica, a monumental tribute that encapsulates the profound spirituality and history of St. Francis and St. Clare, offering a comprehensive understanding of their lives and mission.
Rome
November 1st - December 31st
Our final destination on this profound pilgrimage was Rome, the Eternal City and the very heart of Catholicism, where our spiritual journey reached its powerful culmination. We were deeply moved to attend Mass within the ancient Catacombe di Domitilla, and following this sacred service, we had a unique opportunity to tour and explore the sprawling underground remains of these ancient catacombs, walking amidst the early Christian burial sites. Another incredibly poignant moment was kneeling on the Holy Stairs, a traditional act of devotion. Our itinerary also included visits to the grand Papal Basilicas of Saint Paul Outside the Walls and Saint John Lateran, both immense symbols of the Church's enduring history and global reach. A true highlight was our participation in the Papal Audience, offering an unforgettable connection to the Holy Father.
Beyond these profound spiritual encounters, we explored Rome's iconic historical and cultural marvels, walking across Ponte Sant'Angelo, gazing at the magnificent Colosseum, and throwing a coin into the enchanting Trevi Fountain. Our journey also extended beyond the city walls with significant side trips: we visited the historically rich Monte Cassino, the venerable monastery founded by Saint Benedict, and explored the ancient ruins of Pompeii, offering a powerful glimpse into a world preserved by tragedy. We also made our way to Santa Croce in Gerusalemme, another significant basilica in Rome known for its sacred relics. Every site contributed to an immersive experience, bringing centuries of faith, history, and culture vibrantly to life.