Individuals looking for a pilgrimage from a Franciscan perspective this year have four from which to choose — traveling to several Eastern European countries, Ireland, Fatima/Lourdes/Barcelona, and the Holy Land.
Trips are planned by St. Francis of Assisi, New York City, and St. Anthony Shrine, Boston.
St. Francis Parish has scheduled a pre-Christmas tour of cities in Austria, France and Germany. The trip will include visits to traditional Christmas markets from Dec. 4 to 12. The nine-day tour includes 11 meals, hotel accommodations, transfers, bus travel, and airfare for $2,599 (double) or $2,799 (single). Travelers will be able to shop at the famous Christmas markets in each city. A deposit of $250 must be received by July 5, with final payment on Oct. 5. More information is available by email from pastor Andrew Reitz, OFM.
St. Anthony Shrine is planning three pilgrimages this year. From Sept. 9 to 20, Brian Cullinane, OFM, will lead the 2012 Ireland vacation, which will include stops in Dublin, and at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Blarney Castle and the Cliffs of Moher. The cost is $2,791 (double room) and $3,341 (single). A deposit is due no later than June 4.
Raphael Bonanno, OFM, is leading a group to Fatima, Lourdes and Barcelona from Nov. 4 to 13. The 10-day trip costs $2,649 (double) and $2,999 (single). Information is available from Raphael at 617-542-6440.
A Holy Land pilgrimage is taking place May 8 to 18, 2013, through the shrine’s Franciscan Adult School. Participants will be able to walk in the footsteps of Jesus in Palestine, Israel, Galilee and Judea. Costs and an itinerary for the trip, which will only take place if 25 participants sign up, are being determined. Details can be obtained by contacting Jackie Stewart by phone (617-542-6440, ext. 143) or email.
A variety of additional trips in 2013 are being offered by Franciscan Pilgrimage Programs. Information about pilgrimages to Assisi and Rome, Mexico and the Holy Land can be found on the group’s website.
— Compiled by Wendy Healy