In this article, Cécile Poulin shares her experience during the pilgrimage to Italy that she took with Spiritours. This testimonial was submitted as part of Spiritours’ 20th-anniversary contest in Category 1.
Ah, Spiritours… The first time I encountered you was in 2017; your name enchanted me: Spirit… Spiritus… a tour in spirit…
It was a trip to Italy, in partnership with AED, a charitable organization. Yay! I’m on board! The arrangements were made, and I was won over by the team members with whom I corresponded—they were so warm, it felt as if I had known them for a long time. Yet, that wasn’t the case… I live in Northern Ontario, and all our communication was by email or phone.
A new love story began with you, Spiritours… It was with *la bella Italia*. Yes, indeed, I started learning Italian, simply for the joy of learning… I talked to so many people about my trip to Italy that six people from my area joined me. Wonderful!
It was an unforgettable trip, with a fantastic team; a trip that transformed my life: discovering the beauty and richness of our past, immersing myself in the remains of Christianity, which was established in a world of idolatry, pausing to meditate and pray in Rome’s churches and basilicas, each displaying majesty and treasures beyond belief.
How could I not feel moved, standing in the crowd of visitors, as our beloved Pope Francis passed by, blessing the pilgrims?
Then came the moment of “total elation”: I was overwhelmed with emotion when I knelt at the entrance of the church of my dear patron saint, Sancta Cecilia, in Trastevere. Words failed me; that moment is forever etched in my heart… What a gift, what grace!
Dear Spiritours, I visit your website faithfully because I know that another rejuvenating journey will surely captivate me. In May 2022, during the canonization of Saint Charles de Foucauld, I had the opportunity to be present in Rome, thanks to you, the site I hold so dear… My faith has been enriched, and my friendship bond is strong.
Spiritours, you’ve won me over; I am loyal to you and wish you an endless life. My bags are packed; we’ll meet again to discover together another beautiful corner of creation, so beautiful, so beautiful… Thank you for existing!
– By Cécile Poulin
Note: Spiritours offers a pilgrimage to Italy in collaboration with *La Victoire de l’Amour* from June 2 to 13, 2024 (12 days / 10 nights)!
