CULTURAL TRIPS
CHRISTIAN PILGRIMAGES
Experience an exceptional pilgrimage to Italy on the occasion of the canonization of Carlo Acutis, a young Blessed and a model of faith for teenagers. Join us for an unforgettable spiritual experience in Rome and the Vatican, hot spots of the Catholic faith. This trip will be filled with moments of rejuvenation, prayer and communion, while exploring Italy’s cultural and religious treasures. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to strengthen your faith and share precious memories with other young pilgrims.
Highlights
Plus
Father Nicolas Tremblay is a priest in the Diocese of Joliette. Since his ordination in 2000, he has always been interested in developing new evangelization approaches in a parish context. After 5 years of missionary experience in the Diocese of Amos, he has been pastor of three rural Christian communities since 2017. He met Blessed Carlo Acutis at the International Exhibition on Eucharistic Miracles in November 2021. Since then, he has sought to make her known as a model of holiness for young and old in today’s world.
Louise Normandeau is a committed laywoman at St Michel parish in the diocese of Valleyfield. A teacher for over 40 years, she has been actively involved in Haiti, building classrooms in the suburbs of Port-au-Prince. Since 2020, she has been responsible in Quebec for the Exhibition on Eucharistic Miracles created by Blessed Carlo Acutis. Her commitment is to present Carlo’s life and his exhibition free of charge in all parishes that request it.
Departure from Montreal in the evening for an overnight flight to Rome.
Arrival in Rome and transfer to Assisi. Overnight in Assisi.
Guided tour of Assisi. Located on a gentle hill below the summit of Monte Subasio, the legendary town of Assisi is Italy’s most famous pilgrimage site, as it is the birthplace of Saint Francis. Born in 1182 in this village of warm, pink stone, Francis founded the Franciscan mendicant order, which he named in 1210. Discover the astonishing Basilica of Saint Francis of Assisi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Duomo di San Rufino, and stroll through the medieval streets. Mass at the Basilica of St. Francis (to be confirmed). The guided tour includes the tombs of Carlo Acutis (Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore), Francis, and Clare of Assisi. Return to Rome for dinner and overnight stay.
Guided tour of the Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls and the catacombs. The basilica was founded in the 4th century on the site where, according to tradition, the Apostle Paul was buried after being martyred in Rome. Over the centuries, the church has been enlarged, renovated, and rebuilt several times due to damage caused by fires and other disasters. The current structure dates mainly from the 19th century. One of the basilica’s most remarkable features is its main altar, which houses the relics of Saint Paul. Then explore the Catacombs of Saint Sebastian, located along the Appian Way in Rome, and discover a fascinating network of underground galleries dating back to ancient Christian times. These catacombs, named in honor of the martyr Saint Sebastian, reveal ancient frescoes, inscriptions, and sculptures, testifying to the faith of the first Christians. A one-hour guided tour immerses you in Christian history and spirituality, with an exploration of the tunnels, making this visit an essential part of your Roman itinerary. Mass in the catacombs (subject to availability). Other options: participate in the Youth Jubilee (registration required) or explore the city of Rome at your own pace.
Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica early in the morning if possible (to be confirmed). Free visit of the Basilica of St. John Lateran. It is the oldest and first of the four major basilicas of Rome. Its architecture is impressive with a main facade adorned with columns and sculptures. One of the basilica’s most remarkable features is its main altar, which houses relics of the table used at the Last Supper. Then, if time permits, a free visit to the Basilica of St. Mary Major, one of the four major basilicas of the city, and one of the five patriarchal basilicas. The basilica was founded in the 4th century, and it was consecrated to the Virgin Mary. According to tradition, the basilica was built on the site where the Virgin appeared to a wealthy Roman couple, asking them to build a church in her honor. One of the basilica’s most impressive features is its magnificent 6th-century mosaic depicting scenes from the life of the Virgin Mary and Christ. This mosaic is one of the oldest and largest of its kind in Rome. In the afternoon, guided tour of Ancient Rome (optional $). Discover the majestic Colosseum, an emblem of the grandeur of the Roman Empire, where you can relive the gladiators fighting for their lives before thousands of spectators. Explore the Roman Forum, the vibrant center of political, religious, and social life in antiquity, with its temples, basilicas, and impressive remains. Every step in these iconic places will transport you to the glorious era of ancient Rome, making your visit an unforgettable experience. Other options: participate in the Youth Jubilee (registration required) or explore the city of Rome at your own pace. In the evening: walk in Baroque Rome (unguided). Discover the city’s artistic and architectural creativity through a visit to Baroque Rome. Piazza Navona, an emblematic square with its spectacular fountains, including Bernini’s Fountain of the Four Rivers. The Trevi Fountain, one of the most famous fountains in the world, is a perfect example of Baroque exuberance with its dramatic sculptures. The Church of Santa Maria della Vittoria, known for housing Bernini’s famous sculpture, “The Ecstasy of Saint Teresa.” (Note: Travel will be by foot and public transport for all visits of the day).
Canonization of Carlo Acutis in the morning and free afternoon.
Transfer to the airport for your return flight.
***Itinerary subject to change***
PRICES
Multiple Occupancy: $3,499 / person
Double Occupancy: $3,599 / person
Single Occupancy: $4,399 / person
*Spiritours offers the possibility of room sharing. If we are unable to pair you with someone, Spiritours will assume the additional costs for registrations made more than 60 days before departure, but reserves the right to pair you even during the trip if necessary.
* All prices are based on the exchange rate in effect on December 20, 2024.
THE PACKAGE INCLUDES
Round-trip flights from Montreal-Rome with Air Canada or similar
Round-trip transfers from Rome airport – accommodation
5 nights accommodation
5 breakfasts and 5 dinners
Excursions and entrance fees to sites as per the program
All taxes
THE PACKAGE DOES NOT INCLUDE
Baggage handling/Porterage
Meals not mentioned
Drinks
Personal expenses
Donations for masses
Tips (allow €12 / person / day)
Travel insurance
Optional excursions: “Guided tour of the Basilica of Saint Paul Outside the Walls and catacombs” (on day 4): $95/person; and “Guided tour of Ancient Rome” (on day 5): $49/person (transport is not included)
The FICAV (Compensation Fund for Customers of Travel Agents, currently free)
REGISTRATION
Registration deadline: February 22, 2025 (60 days before departure or when the maximum number of passengers is reached). It is possible to register after this date, a supplement may apply.
To register: you can register on our website (see top of the travel web page, on the right) or download and complete the PDF form and send it to us with your deposit of $750. It is necessary to register as soon as possible, as places are limited. Please attach a photocopy of your passport to your registration (international travel only).
Travel Insurance: For travel insurance, contact us to find out your premium.
Number of participants: Minimum 24 – Maximum 30
Required documentation: All Canadian travelers going to Europe must have a passport valid for at least three months after the planned return date.
For more information, please contact
Frédérique Lafont
(514) 374-7965, ext. 207
frederique.lafont@spiritours.com
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