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Fr. Enrique Salazar and Fr. Herman Nsubuga to Italy February 16 – 28, 2025 for a Jubilee year Pilgrimage!
Fr. Enrique Salazar and Fr. Herman Nsubuga to Italy February 16 – 28, 2025 for a Jubilee year Pilgrimage!
About this tour
DAY 1: Sunday Departure
Depart USA on an overnight flight to Italy.
DAY 2: Monday Arrival / Padova, City of St Antony
Early morning arrival at Venice ‘s airport. We will meet our tour manager after the baggage claim area, continue to Padova where we will explore the Basilica of St. Anthony and celebrate Mass Then transfer to the hotel-for dinner and overnight (D)
DAY 3: Tuesday Venice, La Serenissima
We enjoy the entire day in Venice. An incredible site awaits us as we approach this romantic city by private. In the morning we visit the Basilica of St Mark, including the incredible PALA D’ORO, and walk through the city to see the most famous bridges: Rialto and Bridge of Sights.
Break for lunch. The afternoon is at our leisure for optional tours (Murano and Burano islands to visit the glass factory) or Gondola ride. Return to the dock by boat and transfer to the hotel-for dinner and overnight (B. D)
DAY 4: Wednesday Venice / Pisa / Florence
Depart Venice after breakfast, to Pisa (approx. 4 hrs. drive) – Meet the guide to visit the monuments: Duomo and Baptistery. Time at leisure for lunch and for an optional visit to the Leaning Tower (313 steps to climb to reach the top) – Continue to Florence, check in at the hotel, dinner and overnight (BD)
DAY 5: Thursday Florence The Cradle of Renaissance
After breakfast in the hotel this morning, we meet our local guide, and we will soon discover why Florence is the undisputed cradle of the Renaissance era. Here one almost breathes art and culture in its charming medieval streets, in craftsmen’s workshops, Renaissance palaces, and the world-renowned museums, all found within the downtown area of Florence.
The memories of the Medici family are united with the splendor of the works of illustrious artists such as Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Botticelli the day’s piece de resistance is unquestionably the pinnacle of our bus tour: we’ll enter The Academia Gallery, the location of Michelangelo’s incredible marble statue of David! We’ll visit the busy San Lorenzo Market in the heart of the city!
The swarm of colors and delicious smells is truly a kitchen gourmet’s muse with its plethora of artisan breads in all shapes and sizes, tables overflowing with fruits and vegetables fresh from the farms and surrounded by an immense variety of cheeses and cured meats. Gourmands and wine connoisseurs alike lap up the morning inside this fabulous market, followed by a Florentine wine & cheese tasting extravaganza. Rest of the afternoon is at leisure to explore Florence on your own. A site not to be missed is the Ponte Vecchio, a bridge covered since medieval times with goldsmiths’ shops featuring a Florentine specialty—handcrafted gold jewelry, with other unique creations. We meet up again at an authentic Florentine wine bar.
This exclusive food-lovers’ excursion allows you to be guided by a distinguished sommelier as he matches four traditional wines with a luscious tasting of an assortment of locally sourced artisan cheeses accompanied by the many other authentic Italian food pairings that are traditionally served with wines—such as fresh figs, truffle honey, aromatic strawberry preserves, aged balsamic vinegars from Modena, and fresh breads.
In the afternoon continue with the walking tour, to see Baptistry of St. John, (Outside) the religious historic jewel of the city with Michelangelo’s Gates of Paradise, so called because of their exquisite beauty; it is believed that the creation of these art pieces marked the beginning of the period to be known as the Renaissance. We see the Piazza Della Signoria, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, Giotto’s Bell Tower And then return to our hotel for dinner and overnight (BD.)
DAY 6: Friday Florence / Siena/ Assisi
After breakfast we check out and drive to Siena where we delight in exploring the birthplace of one of the most popular saints, St. Catherine [1347-1380 CE], patron saint of Italy and of Europe. This ancient city is also famous for its cuisine and the rich red color of its medieval cityscape. The historic center has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
We meet the guide to see the city’s major treasures, including the fabulous marble Gothic Duomo Cathedral, the Piazza del Campo—town square—Continue to Assisi. Check in at the hotel, dinner and overnight (BD)
DAY 7: Saturday Assisi
This morning, we will have a guided tour of this famously charming and historic city, birthplace of the beloved St. Francis! We will visit the Church of Santa Chiara and then we proceed to the site where St. Francis was born: the house where he spent his childhood.
We reach the very heart of the town, the Piazza del Commune (Town Hall square), with its Roman and medieval buildings, continuing towards the ancient city walls to the Basilica of St. Francis built above the inspiring final resting place of the saint.
The interiors of the basilica are intricately decorated with frescoes from the 12th and 13th centuries depicting the various stages of the saint’s life and spiritual transformation to a life of poverty and dedication to the poor) After break for lunch and for shopping, in the afternoon we also explore Santa Maria DegliAngeli built over the place where Francis lived in his later years. We will see the Portiuncola Chapel, and the Chapel of Transit. Return to the hotel for dinner and overnight (BD)
Day 8: Sunday Assisi / Orvieto / Assisi
This morning, you will ride through the beautiful Umbrian mountains to Orvieto. This incredible town sits on a volcanic high rock formation.
Here we visit one of the most beautiful and most renowned Cathedrals in Italy. Because of its strategic location, it’s Christian history officially started in 1004, but Orvieto was built over preexisting Etruscan era cave tunnels dating back 2,500 years, which some historians believe Christians used to celebrate Mass when Christianity was forbidden. Return to Assisi for dinner and overnight.
DAY 9: Monday Assisi / Lanciano / San Giovanni Rotondo
After a good breakfast, we check out and drive to Lanciano, to visit the Church of St Francis. This Church is the site of the Eucharistic Miracle that occurred in the eighth century. Celebrate Mass. Continue to San Giovanni Rotondo Check in at the hotel, Dinner and overnight at the hotel (BD)
DAY 10: Tuesday San Giovanni Rotondo / Rome
This morning is dedicated to Saint Padre Pio. We honor his work as we visit his tomb, his cell, his confessional and the Capuchin Monastery of Our Lady of Grace. where we celebrate Mass, We will also visit the new Church of Santa Maria Delle Grazie, and the Home for the Relief of the Suffering. After break for lunch we depart to Rome, where we arrive in the evening. Check in at the hotel, dinner and overnight (BD)
DAY 11: Wednesday Papal Audience / Major Basilicas
This morning we will join the pilgrims that come from all over the world and seat in San Peter’s square (or in the Paolo VI Hall) to attend the Papal Audience and blessing.
– After break for lunch, we continue our guided tour by visiting two of the other major basilicas of Rome. We begin our tour with the Basilica of St John in Lateran which houses a fragment of the table on which Jesus consumed his last supper, from there we cross the street to the Holy Stairs so named because they are the steps which lead to the praetorium of the Roman Procurator Ponzio Pilato, finally we reach the Basilica of St Mary Major. The crypt is built to resemble the cave of nativity in Bethlehem and there is a reliquary containing part of the Holy Crib in which our Lord Jesus Christ once lay. – We celebrate Mass and return to the hotel for dinner and overnight (BD
DAY 12: Thursday Vatican Museums / Trevi Fountain
We will begin the day with visit at one of the most important museums in the world. Legally its own country, Vatican City is the head and administrative center of the Catholic Church. One of the most extensive museum collections in the world, the museum is also home to the Sistine Chapel, where the legendary Michelangelo created one of his most famous masterpieces on the ceiling. After the museums we will visit St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest Catholic Basilica ever built. It’s soaring dome was engineered by Michelangelo and the artist’s famous Pieta sculpture and countless other artistic wonders make St. Peter’s church one of the most awe–inspiring buildings in the world. –
After break for lunch, we will reach the city center. Celebrate Mass at a selected church. Enjoy a walking tour starting from Navona Square, we walk to the Pantheon and to the Trevi Fountain. Balance of the day is at our leisure. Return to the hotel for dinner and overnight (BD)
DAY 13: Friday Departure
After breakfast we will transfer to the airport for our flight home. We will arrive home on the same day. (B)
Download Brochure and Application
Included/Excluded
Round trip airline tickets
Meet & Assist at Rome Airport upon arrivals and departures.
Ten nights’ accommodation in Italy in double occupancy with
breakfast and dinner.
12 days sightseeing in modern air-conditioned private bus.
English speaking government licensed Christian guide on duty.
Wine with dinners
Sightseeing and admissions fees as per itinerary
Spiritual activities
Luggage handling (1 piece per person)
portfolio of all travel documents
Wine with dinner
Private boat transfers in Venice
12 Days Jubilee Year Rome “The Eternal City” Pilgrimage from Denver, CO (DEN) April 28 – May 09 with Fr. Paul Ekeh
12 Days Jubilee Year Rome “The Eternal City” Pilgrimage from Denver, CO (DEN) April 28 – May 09 with Fr. Paul Ekeh
12 Day Jubilee Year Rome “The Eternal City” Pilgrimage from Denver, CO (DEN) April 28 – May 09 with Fr. Boguslaw Rebacz
12 Days Jubilee Year Rome “The Eternal City” Pilgrimage from Denver, CO (DEN) April 28 – May 09 with Fr. Boguslaw Rebacz
Father Kirk Slattery on a 12 Day Steps of St. Paul Pilgrimage to Greece & Greek Islands from Denver, CO (DEN) – May 16 – 27, 2025
Father Kirk Slattery on a 12 Day Steps of St. Paul Pilgrimage to Greece & Greek Islands from Denver, CO (DEN) – May 16 – 27, 2025
About this tour
Day 1 – DEPARTUR TO GREECE
Depart for your overnight flight to Greece, meals served on board.
Day 2 – ARIVAL THESSALONIKI
Arrive Thessaloniki where you will be met outside baggage claim and escorted to you vehicle for a transfer to the hotel. Later this afternoon, meet your guide for a short Orientation Tour. Enjoy a welcome dinner with fellow travelers this evening. Overnight at hotel Kapsis (or similar)
Day 3 – THESSALONIKI
Thessaloniki, Greece’s second largest city with population of some 1 million and a vital cultural, industrial and commercial city, lies amphitheatrically on the Thermaicos Gulf, on the slopes of Mount Chortiatis. Founded by the Greek Macedonian King Kassander, he named the city Thessaloniki after his wife who was also the half-sister of Alexander the Great. During the Roman period, it was the capital of Macedonia Secunda and during the Middle Ages, it was the second city of the Byzantine Empire. For 400 years it was occupied by the Ottoman Empire, until it was finally freed in 1912.
We start our excursion of the city viewing the White Tower, an historical landmark before continuing on to visit the Archaeological Museum which houses interesting finds from the Archaic, Classical and Roman periods, with findings of the Sindos area and a stunning exhibition of golden jewels. Stop for a typical Greek lunch. From here, drive by the International Trade Fair grounds and the Aristotelion University, which was established in 1926 and today is the largest of all universities in Greece. Next, make your way up to the once upon a time, Acropolis, located in the upper part of the city. It is here, where you will have a superb panoramic view of the entire city with the Thermaic Gulf and Mount Olympus in the background.
Further visit of St. Demetrios Basilica which was erected in the 5th century AD. The five aisled basilica suffered a tragic fire in the year 1917 but was later restored in 1948. Marvel at the beautiful mosaics, dating back from the 5th to 9th Centuries. From here, follow your guide to the area located under the basilica, where you will see the famous crypt, which according to tradition, was once the confinement for an officer by the name of Demetrius who was later executed by the Emperor Gallerius. Today, St. Demetrius is the patron Saint of the city.
Return to your motor coach and drive along the modern street, Egnatia, named after the famous Roman road, Via Egnatia. While driving, view the Arch of Gallerius and St. George’s Rotonda. The tour will end passing by the well preserved Byzantine Basilica of St. Sophia, an 8th Century structure, rich in mosaics and frescoes. Overnight hotel Kapsis or similar.
Day 4 – THESSALONIKI – KAVAL – PHILIPPI – THESSALONIKI
Kavala, the ancient site of Neapolis, founded in the 7th Century BC, is the very same place where St. Paul set foot on the European Continent during his second missionary journey, establishing a thriving Christian church in the nearby city of Philippi. The famous Egnatian road, which once ran from the Adriatic Sea to Constantinople, passed by this city.
On the way to Philippi you will have the opportunity to view the St. Sylas Monastery named after one of St. Paul’s companions. Arrive at the famous city of Philippi, one of the most interesting biblical and historical ancient cities. The city once known as Krinides, was renamed “Philippoi” after King Philip II, father of Alexander the Great. It is this place where Brutus and Cassius were defeated by Mark Antony and Junavian Augustus, granting the City of Philippi a great many privileges. From here, drive a short distance to the Baptistery and the River, where Lydia, the first European convert was baptised by St. Paul.
Return to the archaeological site for a guided tour through the excavations, marveling at the upper and lower parts as well as the Forum, the Walls, the two Basilicas and the Theatre. Your guide will also point out the traditional prison, which once held St. Paul and St. Silas.
After lunch in Philippi Site, we will do a short orientation tour of Kavala (Anceint Neapolis) and then drive back to Thessaloniki. Overnight hotel Kapsis or similar.
Day 5 – THESSALONIKI – PELLA – KALAMBAKA
Your tour starts with a 45-minute drive to Pella birthplace of Alexander the Great, where you will explore the site on foot.
Pella, was the second capital of ancient Macedonia, founded by king Archelaos who had built the magnificent palace, its walls being decorated by the famous painter Zeuxis and made it to the seat of the Royal Family. Being situated at the riverside of Ludias, that was once navigable, was developed into an important port. Euripides was at Pella to see his plays produced and performed there and Aristotle was appointed to educate young Alexander.
We start our visits here first with the Archaeological Museum. Being small but very important, due to its rich collection of clay figurines, the classical black and red figured vases, the pebble floor mosaics and the fine reconstruction of the interior architectural part of Greek house with its stucco decoration. We start visiting the excavations with the huge Greek houses bearing the central courtyards and being surrounded by big rooms, walk along the streets facing the shops of the big market and admire the still existing floor mosaics.
Continue to visit the Royal Tombs of Vergina (Land of Alexander the Great) we will have lunch at Elia Restaurant in Veria, overlooking the valley Aliakmon. The tour includes visit of the newly completed exhibition bearing the founds of all 3 Tombs, one of them famous as the Tomb of King Philip the II, Father of Alexander the Great. Make your way inside the subterranean structure, accompanied by your guide and feast your eyes on some of the most important objects, which once belonged to Philip II – the King’s shield adorned with ivory and gold the King’s gold- trimmed iron breast plate, Gold Diadems of unparalleled craftsmanship, the Golden Wreath of oak leaves, the gold plated collar and the Silver Burial Ums. Listen carefully, as your guide explains how inside the tomb of King Philip, a Golden Chest was discovered, containing the King’s bones, washed with wine and wrapped in purple cloth. After a short coffee break, we will drive towards the town of Kalambaka. Overnight
Day 6 – KALAMBAKA – METEORA – ATHENS
Today we will visit the monasteries of Meteora. One of the most remarkable sites in Greece: a group of monasteries perched atop pinnacles of rock up to 600 meters high. A rare geological phenomenon, a quirk of nature as it were, created these looming rocks which trust skywards from the plain of Thessaly, as if striving to come closer to God.
These peculiarly impressive natural sculptures are known as Meteora because they do indeed seem to hang or hover (meteoro in Greek) above the plain. Their summits totally isolated from the rest of the world, were a refuge for many hermits from as early as the 11th century. Three hundred years later the first monasteries were founded. Access to the monasteries and settlements was made by ladder and rope.
Once we arrive to the monasteries you will admire the brickwork of the Byzantine workmanship. The Churches house the spectacular frescoes, ivory carving, manuscripts and the fine work of art previously supported by the Emperors at the time. Included in the tour is the visit of two monasteries, Grand Meteora or Varlaam Monasteries (depends on the day of the week) as well as the Monastery of Agios Stefanos (Nuns). *You are kindly requested to observe the strict clothing restrictions of the monasteries i.e. long skirts and covered shoulders for the ladies, long trousers for men otherwise entrance will be denied*
After lunch we will start our drive towards Athens. Overnight at hotel Stanley or similar.
Day 7 – ATHENS
On a tour to Athens you will view many significant historical and archaeological monuments that date back to the Golden Age of Pericles, in the 5th century BC. During that time, the wealthy, newly democratic and invigorated city-state decided to rebuild the Temples on top of the Acropolis in great splendor. Visit the Parthenon, dedicated to the Goddess Athena, a unique masterpiece of Greek Architecture.
This monument is recognized as the culmination of Greek architecture and sculpture. Examine the Propylea , which blends Doric and Ionic building principles. Continue to the Temple of the Athena Nike (Wingless Victory) and the Erechtheum Temple, which was formerly used for cult worship and consists of three basic parts: the main Temple, the north extension and the famous Porch of Maidens.
Then you will enjoy a traditional lunch in a restaurant in the centre of Athens. After lunch you will have the chance to explore the Νew Acropolis Museum located across the hill of the Acropolis serving as a reminder to all visitors of the true greatness of 5th century Athens. Among its many important exhibits are the Caryatids (female sculptures acting as columns of the Erechtheion Temple), the Parthenon Gallery with the inner frieze, outer metopes and pediments of the temple and the statue of Artemis by Praxitelis. Next, view Mars Hill, where St. Paul preached Christianity. You will also be seeing the Ancient Agora, Tower of the Winds, Herodes Atticus Theater, Theater of Dionyssos,Temple of Zeus, see the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the former Royal Palace which is now the House of Parliament. Continue to the University of Athens, the Academy of Athens, the National Library and then to the “Panathenian” Olympic Stadium where the first modern Olympic Games were held in 1896. Overnight hotel Stanley or similar.
Day 8 – ATEHNS – CORINTH
Corinth (Argolis) Journey outside Athens to walk among the ancients in Corinth, a once rich and powerful city known for luxury and vice and see the incredible Corinth Canal, cut through miles of solid rock. Follow the sacred way which led to Eleusis, known in antiquity for its sanctuary of Demeter, whose legendary search for her daughter Persephone explained to the ancients the cause of the seasons.
A modern highway takes you past olive fields and numerous small villages, including Megara, whose inhabitants colonized in Asia Minor under the leadership of Byzas and founded the city of Byzantium – which later gave its name to the Byzantine Empire. Driving along the coast leads to the majestic Corinth Canal, an engineering triumph century in the making. Nero, Rome’s most infamous emperor, inaugurated one attempt in 67 AD with his golden spade, but it was the Greeks who finally conquered the steep rock in 1893. Prior to the canal, ships were dragged from the Ionian Sea to the Aegean Sea using a wooden road with special grooves greased with wax. Traces of the road can still be seen. Continue on to Ancient Corinth, a city blessed with a superb location, fertile plains and a virtually impregnable refuge. Excavations reveal that the ancient city was huge and wealthy; a survivor of numerous invasions but devastated by earthquakes. See the Bema, where St. Paul was tried by the Roman Governor, and one of Corinth’s most striking ancient buildings – the Temple of Apollo, seven of whose original 38 columns still stand.
Walk through the remains of the Market Place, a colonnaded square once surrounded by many small shops. See the celebrated Fountain of Priene, which has produced water from earliest times and Lechaion Road, formerly the main thoroughfare to the port of Lecaion. You will also be visiting the museum of Corinth. Overnight hotel Stanley or similar.
Day 9 – Athens – Mykonos –free afternoon
Celebrate Mass at the Church of St. Paul in Pireaus. Transfer to Piraeus Harbor for 11am boarding. Late afternoon, arrive at the beautiful island of Mykonos. Overnight sail to Kusadasi.
Day 10 – Kusadasi (excursion to Ephesus)/Patmos (excursion to Cave of St. John where he worte the Apocalypse)
Arrive at Kusadasi, continue by coach to Ephesus and explore ruins of the ancient city. Celebrate Mass at Panaya Kapula (the House of the Virgin Mary) in Ephesus. Afternoon visit to the island of Patmos and overnight sail to Rhodes.
Day 11 – Heraklion – free morning/Santorini
Arrive at Heraklion, continue by coach to Knossos, the largest Bronze Age archaeological site on, considered Europe’s oldest city. Celebrate Mass on board. Enjoy the afternoon on the stunning island of Santorini, and village of Fira perched high above the sea with a spectacular view.
Day 12 – Athens – Departure
Return to Athens around 06:00am, disembarkation after breakfast and transfer to the airport. (Breakfast on board)
Download Brochure and Application
Included/Excluded
Round trip airline tickets.
Meet & Assist at Airports upon arrivals and departures.
Three overnights in Athens (Avenue hotel or similar) including breakfast and dinner daily.
One overnight in Kalambaka (hotel Amalia or similar) including breakfast and dinner daily.
Three overnights in Thessaloniki (hotel Kapsis or similar) including breakfast and dinner daily.
3 night/4 day cruise.
Air-conditioned motor coach throughout for all tours and transfers.
Services of English-speaking professional, licensed guide for all sites and museums as per
itinerary.
Dinners during tours includes one soft drink or glass of wine per person.
Welcome dinner in Thessaloniki includes house wine.
Transfers from and to airports.
Entrance fees as per itinerary.
Road tolls and all applicable taxes.
Fr. Keas and Fr. Kochivar to Poland from Denver, CO (DEN) – June 02 – 12, 2025
Fr. Keas and Fr. Kochivar to Poland from Denver, CO (DEN) – June 02 – 12, 2025
About this tour
Day 1, Departure
Depart for your overnight flight to Poland. Meals will be served on board!
Day 2, Krakow arrival
Arrive in Krakow Airport by our scheduled flight and claim the luggage.
Celebrate Mass in a local church
Drive to the hotel for check-in.
Welcome dinner at the hotel
Overnight at the hotel in Krakow (D)
Day 3, Krakow – Wadowice – Krakow
Breakfast at the hotel
Transfer to Wadowice to visit the birthplace of Pope John Paul II and his childhood home which is now a museum (entrance fee included; please note that due to the anniversary of John Paull II birthday, the visit is subject to confirmation). and the Church of the Presentation of the Virgin Mary where he was baptized.
Celebrate Mass at the Church of the Presentation of the Virgin Mary (subject to confirmation)
Lunch on your own
Optionally: stay in Wadowice for a full-day celebration of John Paull II 100th birthday
Return to Krakow
Dinner at the hotel
Overnight at the hotel in Krakow (B, D)
Day 4, Krakow
Breakfast at the hotel
Following breakfast, proceed to Wawel Hill to see Wawel Royal Castle (exterior view) and visit the Cathedral (entrance included) which is one of the most beautiful Renaissance residences in central Europe. Continue to Krakow’s Old Town to see the main Market Square, the Church of St. Mary (entrance included), Cloth Hall, City Hall Tower, Kanonicza Street where Pope St. John Paul II resided while living in Krakow and the Collegium Maius (courtyard view) where he was a student.
Enjoy lunch on your own in the centre of Krakow
In the afternoon have a guided tour of Kazimierz – the historic Jewish quarter of Krakow.
Free evening in Krakow
Dinner at a local restaurant
Overnight at the hotel in Krakow (B, D)
Day 5, Krakow – Wieliczka – Lagiewniki – Krakow
Breakfast at the hotel
Transfer to Wieliczka
Enjoy a guided tour of the world famous Wieliczka Salt Mine (entrance fee included). Known for its beautiful underground constructions made of salt, the mines include Biblical icons and a statue of Pope St. John Paul II. It is a unique place where many generations of Polish miners have created chambers with richly decorated chapels.
Lunch on your own
Drive to Lagiewniki , the capital of the Divine Mercy. It was here that the message of the Divine Mercy originated, which Christ Himself wished to pass on to our generation through the mediation of St. Faustina. The Sanctuary houses grace working image of the Merciful Jesus and the relics of St. Faustina. As we visit the Shrine of Divine Mercy we will see St. Faustina’s convent chapel and her Tomb.
Celebrate Mass at one of the chapels (subject to confirmation)
We visit the newly constructed Shrine of Divinity dedicated by Pope John Paul II on his last visit to Poland in 2002, and the new center “Have no Fear” where we pray by the relic of Saint Pope John Paul II.
Return to Krakow
Dinner at the hotel
Overnight at the hotel in Krakow (B, D)
Day 6, Krakow – Auschwitz – Kalwaria Zebrzydowska – Krakow
Breakfast at the hotel.
Drive to Auschwitz
Visit Auschwitz Concentration Camp (guided tour included) where St. Teresa Benedicta (Edith Stein) faced martyrdom and St. Maximilian Kolbe died in the Death Block from starvation after volunteering his life for that of a fellow prisoner.
Have lunch on your own
On your way back to Krakow stop in Kalwaria Zebrzydowska: The Marian Shrine with the Calvary Park (42 chapels modelled and named after the places in the Holy Land)
Celebrate Mass in Kalwaria (subject to confirmation)
Dinner at the hotel
Overnight at the hotel in Krakow (B, D)
Day 7, Krakow – Zakopane
Breakfast at the hotel and check-out
After breakfast, we will drive through the mountains to breathtaking, yet small and remote village of Zakopane.
Make your way to the Sanctuary of the Holy Virgin of Fatima, a chapel constructed in 1999 in gratitude for Pope John Paul II′s survival of an assassination attempt.
Mass at the Holy Virgin of Fatima (subject to confirmation)
Have lunch on your own
Take a cable car ride (entrance fee included / subject to confirmation based on weather conditions) to the nearby mountaintop. At the top, you will truly experience God’s magnificent Glory when you look out at the magnificent panoramic view.
Free afternoon in Zakopane
Dinner with folk music at a local restaurant
Overnight at the hotel in Zakopane (B, D)
Day 8, Zakopane – Czestochowa
Breakfast at the hotel and check-out
Depart for Czestochowa
Lunch on your own upon arrival
Visit Jasna Gora (entrance fee included), the monastery that withstood the repeated onslaught of overwhelming Swedish Forces during the religious wars of the 17th Since then its Black Madonna is venerated as the “Queen of Poland” and has become the country’s national symbol.
Celebrate Mass in one of the chapels (subject to confirmation)
Check into the hotel
Free evening in Czestochowa
Dinner at the hotel
Overnight at the hotel in Czestochowa (B, D)
Day 9, Czestochowa – Swinice Warckie – Glogowiec – Warsaw
Breakfast at the hotel.
Transfer to the village of Swinice Warckie.
In Swinice Warckie, visit the church of St. Casimir. This historically rich parish is the site of baptism for St. Faustina (formally known as, Helena Kowalska). Little Helena received her first confession, and First Holy Communion, at this parish. Additionally, she and her family attended Sunday Mass and other services at this church.
This afternoon, visit the shrine of Our Mary Immaculate in Niepokalanow. The city of Our Mary Immaculate was founded in 1927 by St. Maximilian Maria Kolbe.were we will celebrate mass.
We will continue to Głogowiec where you will see the Family Home of St. Faustina
Continue to Warsaw
Check into the hotel
Dinner at the hotel
Overnight at the hotel in Warsaw (B, D)
Day 10, Warsaw
Breakfast at the hotel
Begin the day at the Chapel of Divine Mercy Convent at Zytnia Street, where Sister Faustina entered the Convent.
Celebrate Mass at Zytnia Street (subject to confirmation)
Enjoy a guided city tour of the Old Town Square, where horse-drawn carriages carry visitors past beautifully rebuilt Baroque house and Renaissance-style storefronts. Traditional Polish cafes and shops surround the square, which has been restored to its 13th-century charm. Walk past the Royal Castle, a magnificent example of baroque architecture, built on this site originally for the Mazovian Dukes and now, a museum housing furniture, and various objects of art. (exterior views)
Lunch on your own
In the afternoon continue with a visit to Lazienki Park including the exterior view of the Palace on the Water – the most beautiful palace and park in the entire city. Until the 19th and 20th centuries the park was closed to Varsovians. It was a playground for young Frederic and the son of the prince, as well as for the daughter of the young prince’s French tutor, who was a friend of the Chopin family. On November 14, 1926, the Chopin Monument was erected in the park, and it quickly became one of the most recognizable symbols of Warsaw where recitals of Chopin’s music are held every Sunday afternoon from May to September.
Free evening in Warsaw
Dinner at the hotel
Overnight at the hotel in Warsaw (B, D)
Day 11, Warsaw departure Breakfast at the hotel and check-out.
Drive to Warsaw Airport for your return flight. (B)
Attention: The schedule on this day is subject to change depending on flight details.
Download Brochure and Application
Included/Excluded
Round Trip Airline Ticket
Meet & Assist at airports upon arrivals and departures
Ten nights’ accommodation in double occupancy with breakfast and dinner
Eleven days sightseeing in modern air conditioned private bus
English Speaking government licensed Christian Guide.
All entrance fees to places of interests
Special dinner at restaurant with folklore show
Anything not mentioned above
Lunches
Drinks at meals (other than mentioned above)
Tips for local guides & driver
Donation at churches
Personal expenses
Travel Insurance
Optional visits and activities
Fr. Arturo Chagala on an 11 Days In the footsteps of Jesus – The Holy Land from Denver, CO (DEN) – June 23 – July 03, 2025
Fr. Arturo Chagala on an 11 Days In the footsteps of Jesus – The Holy Land from Denver, CO (DEN) – June 23 – July 03, 2025
About this tour
Day 1: Monday, Departure from USA
Depart for your overnight flights to the Holy Land.
Day 2: Tuesday, Arrive Tel Aviv, Transfer to Tiberius.
Arrive in Tel Aviv.
Meet your guide and transfer to Tiberius.
Dinner and overnight at a hotel in Tiberius.
Day 3: Wednesday, Nazareth, Mount Tabor, Cana
Mass -Cana – Church
Cana of Galilee.
Nazareth, visiting the Basilica of the Annunciation. St. Joseph’s Church, and Mary’s well.
Mount Tabor.
Dinner and overnight at a hotel in Tiberius.
Day 4: Thursday, Banias, Sea of Galilee
Mass – Capernaum.
The Mount of Beatitudes for a time of prayer and reflection.
Caesarea Philippi.
Capernaum. St. Peter’s Primacy.
Tabaha, site of the multiplication of the fishes and the loaves.
Enjoy a meal of “St. Peter’s fish” and boat ride on the Sea of Galilee.
Dinner and overnight at a hotel in Tiberius.
Day 5: Friday, Mount Carmel, Coastal Plains.
Mass – Stella Marris
Mount Carmel. Stella Marris, Haifa.
Caesarea Maritime.
Depart to Jerusalem via Coastal Plains.
Dinner and overnight at a hotel in Bethlehem.
Day 6: Saturday, Bethlehem, Shepherd’s field.
Mass -Bethlehem – Basilica –
Shepherd’s Field in Beit Sahour.
The Church of the Nativity.
St. Catherine church, the Grotto of St. Jerome, Milk Grotto.
Old city of Bethlehem.
Dinner and overnight at hotel in Bethlehem.
Day 7: Sunday, Dead Sea, Jericho, Bethany
Mass – Bethany.
Bethany, Lazarus tomb.
Qumran, site of the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls.
Baptism site (Jordan River).
Visit Jericho, Zacchaeus tree old city and view mount of Temptation.
Dinner and overnight at hotel in Bethlehem.
Day 8: Monday, Mount of Olives, Mount Zion.
Mass – Jerusalem.
Panoramic view from the top of Mount Olives.
Ascension Hill on the Mount of Olives.
The Church of Pater Noster.
The Church of Dominus Flevit.
The Garden of Gethsemane and the Church of All Nations.
Mt. Zion and the Cenacle (Upper Room).
Dinner and overnight at hotel in Bethlehem.
Day 9: Tuesday, Via Dolorosa, Holy Sepulcher
Mass – Jerusalem
The Western Wall.
St. Anne’s Church, the Pools of Bethesda.
Walk the Via Dolorosa ending at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher.
Free Time in the Old City of Jerusalem.
Dinner and overnight at hotel in Bethlehem.
Day 10: Wednesday, Ein Karem, Emmaus.
Mass – Ein Karem
Visit Ein Karem.
Visit Emmaus.
Dinner and overnight at hotel in Bethlehem.
Day 11: Thursday, Departure
Depart for airport.
Download Brochure and Application
Included/Excluded
Round trip from Denver.
Meet & Assist at Ben Gurion Airport upon arrival and departure.
Three nights’ accommodation in Galilee in double occupancy with breakfast & dinner.
Six-night accommodation in Bethlehem in double occupancy with breakfast & dinner.
Ten days sightseeing in a modern air-conditioned private bus.
English-speaking government licensed Christian guide on duty.
Entrance fees to places of interest whilst on tour in the Holy Land.
Special dinner at an oriental restaurant.
Tips for Guide, Driver, and hotels.
Lunches
Fr. Joseph Oiye on a 12 Day Pilgrimage Fatima – Lourdes – Paris from Denver, CO (DEN) – September 08 – 19, 2025
Join Fr. Joseph Oiye on a 12 Day Pilgrimage Fatima – Lourdes – Paris from Denver, CO (DEN) – September 08 – 19, 2025
About this tour
Day 1, Depart for Lisbon
Make your way to your local airport, where you will board your overnight flight(s). Your meals will be served on board.
Day 2, Arrive Lisbon
Upon landing at Lisbon Airport, and after claiming your baggage, proceed to the arrival’s hall, where you will be greeted by your tour guide and/or driver. This afternoon we will enjoy Panoramic tour of Lisbon, which will include St. Jerome’s Monastery, built to give thanks to the Virgin Mary, we will drive by the Belem Tower and many landmarks including the 25th of April Bridge, Basilica of the Star, and the Marquee of Pombal Square.
Our last stop will be St. Anthony’s Church. Patron Saint of lost things is best known as St. Anthony of Padua (Italy), but he was born and baptized here in Lisbon, Portugal. The Church where we will celebrate Mass is built upon St. Anthony’s birth. Welcome dinner and overnight in Lisbon.
Day 3, Lisbon – Santarem – Fatima
Today, we will head to Fatima, on the way will stop in town of Santarem for Mass at St. Stephens Church, and to venerate the 13th century Eucharistic Miracle. Continue to Fatima, a Hamlet of Aljustrel, the birthplace and home of the three shepherd children. Dinner and overnight in Fatima.
Day 4, Fatima
Today will surely be a memorable experience, as you pray and meditate upon one of Our Blessed Mother’s apparition sites. Our Lady appeared to three shepherd children; Lucia (age 10), Jacinta (age 7), and Francisco (age 9). These apparitions occurred monthly from May until October of 1917. Historically, as the entire world was in true turmoil, Our Lady’s most prominent message during this time was to pray for world peace. The destruction of the world at that point in history was also mentioned by Our Lady in her messages of Fatima, and more specifically, in her second secret to the children.
Our profoundly reflective day begins with a visit to the Little Chapel of the Apparitions. This simple, yet modern, chapel is the site where the Virgin Mary first appeared on May 13, 1917. Continue with a visit to the stunning neoclassical church, the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary. This Sacred space contains the tombs of St. Francisco, St. Jacinta, and Sister Lucia. View the monument that commemorates the Sacred Heart of Jesus, in the square.
Due to Our Lady’s consistency in Her messages to pray the Rosary, this Basilica also features fifteen altars, dedicated to the fifteen mysteries of the Rosary. While in the Basilica, you will be able to feel, through the Love of Our Lord and Lady, the many graces that were received here. Visit the Museum with the exhibition: Fatima: Light and Peace. Continue with a visit to the Holy Trinity Basilica. After free time for lunch, we will experience Christ’s unconditional love by participating in the Stations of the Cross along the Via Sacra. The “Sacred Way” marks the path taken by the shepherd children of Fatima to their first apparition with Our Lady.
It is composed of fifteen small chapels in commemoration of the Passion of Our Lord. The fifteenth station, the Resurrection, can be found close to the Chapel of Calvary, dedicated to St. Stephen, King of Hungary. The day ends with a visit to Valinhos, the site of Our Lady’s August 1917 apparition and the first and third apparition of the Angel. Your night will conclude with private devotions, and a candlelight procession, requested by Our Lady (1917). Enjoy dinner and a comfortable night’s rest in Fatima.
Day 5, Fatima – Salamanca
Depart Fatima and head to Salamanca, following a full breakfast at the hotel. Salamanca is a city in the Castilla y Leon region, and is known for its large University, the oldest in Spain that is still active, along with its prominent culture.
Our walking tour will bring us by the most noteworthy sites such as; the grand Plaza Mayor, an iconic square filled with food, shopping and city events; La Clerecia, a church and college of the Jesuit Order that was constructed in the seventeenth century; La Casa de las Conchas, currently a public library but also, a monument noted and decorated by shells, which symbolizes the ever-famous pilgrimage to Santiago (El Camino); the University of Salamanca, the oldest University in Spain and the third oldest in Europe; the Roman Bridge, extends along the River Tormes, is a national monument and among one of Salamanca’s sturdiest bridges; La Iglesia de San Marcos, constructed in the Romanesque style and contains breathtaking paintings that portray many scenes of Our Lady’s life; La Iglesia de San Martin, a church devoted to St. Martin de Porres, who is the patron saint of mixed-race people and all those seeking interracial harmony.
Visit the inside of the two joint Salamanca Cathedrals (old and new), one of which is a Romanesque style and the other a Gothic style. Following this eventful day, you will return to your hotel for a delicious meal with your group and an overnight at your hotel in Salamanca.
Day6, Salamanca-Alba de Tormes-Avila-Burgos
This morning, after breakfast, you will board the bus and enjoy a short transfer to the village of Alba de Tormes. This town is home to the Carmelite Monastery that Saint Teresa founded in 1571. Upon arrival in Alba de Tormes, your group will celebrate Mass at this Monastery where the saint died and was buried. Following Mass, you will have the opportunity to visit the museum dedicated to St. Teresa of Avila, which also holds her incorrupt heart and left arm.
Your group will enjoy free time for lunch on your own, before continuing to the medieval city of Avila. Upon arrival in Avila, you will immediately notice the perfectly preserved eleventh-century walls that surround the old town. The conservation of architecture in this city, to which St. Teresa was born, deems its shrines, convents and churches necessary to visit on any Catholic pilgrimage. The Cathedral de Avila encompasses the Romanesque, Gothic and Renaissance styles of its time, within its artwork and architecture. La Basilica de San Vicente in Avila, stands on the site of the martyrdom of St. Vincent.
Visit the Incarnation Convent, where St. Teresa became a nun. Saint Therese convinced Saint John of the Cross to reform the male Carmelite order, the reform she started when she met Saint John in Medina del Campo. After walking in the footsteps of St. Teresa, continue your journey to Burgos. Upon arrival in the historic capital of Old Castile, enjoy dinner. Following dinner, you will have the opportunity to explore the city of Burgos, and admire its magnificent limestone, gothic-style Cathedral. Late this evening, you will return to your hotel for a restful overnight.
Day 7, Burgos – Loyola – Lourdes
Following breakfast, transfer from Burgos to Loyola to visit the birthplace of St. Ignatius, founder of the Jesuit Order. St. Ignatius dedicated himself to becoming a soldier of the Christian faith, and as a result of many tribulations, he wrote the ever-famous Spiritual Exercises. In Loyola, you will see the 17th century Basilica that is dedicated to this remarkable Saint. The Basilica is part of a series of buildings that surrounds the “Holy House,” the birthplace of St. Ignatius. When you visit these Holy places, you will also have the opportunity to pray at the most venerated room, where St. Ignatius prayed and began his conversion.
After meditating on the life of this founder of the Jesuit Order, you will enjoy free time for lunch and board the bus for the next destination. We will continue to Lourdes with a spectacular view of the Pyrenees Mountains. Upon arrival in Lourdes, you will check-in to your hotel and enjoy a splendid dinner and peaceful overnight.
Day 8 & 9, Lourdes
Over the next two days, you will wake up in a small town that is nestled within the Pyrenees Mountains. During your time in Lourdes, you will pray and meditate in yet another site of Our Lady’s apparitions. Our Lady first appeared to Bernadette in 1858, and announced herself as “The Immaculate Conception”, near the Grotto of Massabielle.
During the first two apparitions, little Bernadette prayed the Rosary with Our Lady and left without any exchange of words. During the following apparitions, Our Lady emphasized God’s love for us, penance and the necessity of performing acts of penance for sinners. Throughout your time in Lourdes, you will have the opportunity to attend Mass at the Grotto, where Our Lady appeared to Bernadette; watch a video presentation that explains, in detail, the story of Lourdes; drink water from the miraculous spring that has healed many; and submerge yourself in the healing baths. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to experience Christ’s unconditional love, as you meditate upon the “life size” Stations of the Cross that overlook the Grotto of Massabielle.
Also, while in Lourdes, you will walk in and meditate upon the footsteps of St. Bernadette. Your group will have the opportunity to see Boly Mill, the birthplace of St. Bernadette, and the “Cachot,” an abandoned prison where Bernadette’s impoverished family lived. Each evening following dinner, you will have an opportunity to attend the candlelight procession and the Rosary before a restful overnight.
Day 10, Lourdes – Paris
Today, you will enjoy breakfast before departing for Pau or Lourdes airport for your short flight to Paris. Upon arrival in Paris, visit and attend Mass at the magnificent, Sacre Coeur Basilica that stands atop Montmartre Hill. The Basilica, dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, was originally built in 1914 as an act of penance for the infidelity that France was experiencing during that time. While on your visit, in addition to the extraordinary artwork and architecture that forms the Basilica, you will see the beautiful mosaic of the Risen Christ, and the remarkable Grand Organ. Celebrate Mass at the Crypt that contains the Tombs of many notable Cardinals.
Time permitting, you may have the opportunity during your free time to ascend a staircase to the Dome where you may take in a breathtaking panoramic view of the city of Paris. Enjoy free time for reflection and prayer. Dinner and an overnight at your hotel in Paris.
Day 11, Paris – Miraculous Medal – Notre Dame Cathedral (outside)
Today, you will enjoy a sightseeing tour of Paris. We start with Our Lady of Miraculous Medal, where we celebrate Mass, after which we will have to opportunity to view the incorrupt body of St. Catherine Laboure. The Saint’s guardian angel led her to the chapel, where the Blessed Virgin Mary appeared to her. During apparitions, Our Lady repeatedly instructed the making and purpose of the Miraculous Medal, as well as the green scapular.
According to the Blessed Virgin Mary, those who wear the Miraculous Medal and scapular will receive special protection and abundant graces. Following your prayerful and reflective experience, we will walk to Saint Vincent de Paul Church, than continue on tour of Paris. Our panoramic tour, will take us to the most recognizable symbol of the city of Paris, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower, Invalides, the L’Arch de Triomphe and the Champ-Elysees, one of the world’s most famous boulevards.
We will make a stop at La Madeleine, with the statue of Mary Magdalene carried to heaven by angels. Your busy day ends with a lovely meal and a comfortable overnight.
Day 12, Return Home
After an early breakfast and heartfelt farewells, your group will leave by motor coach and transfer to the Paris airport for return flight(s) home.
Download Brochure and Application
Included/Excluded
Round Trip airline ticket.
Meet and Assist at Airport upon arrivals and departures.
Ten nights’ accommodation in four star hotels in double occupancy with breakfast and dinner.
Twelve days sightseeing in modern air conditioned private bus.
English speaking government licensed tour escort on duty.
All entrance fees to places of interests.
Complimentary glass of Wine with dinner.
Mass daily
Lunches and soft drinks.
Tips for Guide, Driver .
All Personal Expenses.
Travel Insurance.
All prices reflect a 4% cash discount and is forfeited when using a credit card
Msgr. Robert Jaeger to the Shrines and Abbeys of Ireland from Denver, CO (DEN) September 08 – 18, 2025
Msgr. Robert Jaeger to the Shrines and Abbeys of Ireland from Denver, CO (DEN) September 08 – 18, 2025
About this tour
DAY 1: DEPART USA
We depart USA en route to Dublin, with complimentary meals and beverages served on board.
DAY 2: ARRIVE DUBLIN / CLIFFS OF MOHER / GALWAY
We arrive in Dublin Airport and are met by our driver/guide, who will accompany us throughout our tour. Our driver takes us to the Cliffs of Moher, sheer cliffs dropping 600 feet to the water below, one of the most impressive stretches of shoreline on the west coast of Ireland. We pass through the mesmerizing landscapes of The Burren and arrive in Galway for the afternoon and evening. Dinner is at our hotel. (D)
DAY 3: GALWAY: EXCURSION TO KNOCK & BALLINTUBBER ABBEY
Today is our day to visit Knock, visited each year by more than 1.5 million pilgrims. We begin with Mass at the Shrine, followed by a tour of the grounds. The Sacrament of Reconciliation is available in a special chapel. After lunch on our own, we begin our return to Galway, stopping at Ballintubber Abbey where Mass has been celebrated daily for over 800 years!
This was the traditional starting point for the annual pilgrimage to the Holy Mountain of Croagh Patrick. This evening, we gather for dinner at Dunguarie Castle. (B, D)
DAY 4: GALWAY / ENNIS / ADARE / KILLARNEY
We depart for Ennis, a charming town of narrow streets. We celebrate Mass in the Church of Sts. Peter and Paul. We leave Ennis and head south to the thatched-roof village of Adare. We arrive this evening in the popular town of Killarney. Dinner is served at our hotel. (B, D)
DAY 5: KILLARNEY: THE RING OF KERRY
We begin with Mass at St. Mary’s Cathedral in Killarney. Then we are off for a thrilling scenic ride (112 miles), a continuously changing landscape of dramatic cliffside views and breathtaking seascapes. Our trip finishes with some free time in the town of Killarney, and those wishing to may take a ride on a horse-drawn carriage on their own to visit the Muckross House.
Tonight, dinner is on our own to explore the local restaurant scene. You might want to consider going to Kate Kearney’s Cottage, situated at the entrance to one of the most beautiful glacier valleys in Western Europe. This Cottage has been family run for over 150 years and it continues the tradition of hospitality made famous by Kate. Your tour escort will have other suggestions for you on where to dine. (B)
DAY 6: KILLARNEY/ BLARNEY / CORK
Today we are off to Blarney Castle, where you acquire the ‘gift of gab’ by kissing the Blarney Stone. Woollen Mills offers some great shopping. Our next stop is the city of Cork, Ireland’s second largest city, where we will celebrate Mass. Dinner tonight is at our hotel. (B, D)
DAY 7: CORK: VISIT TO COBH & JAMESON DISTILLERY
After breakfast we visit Cobh, with one of the most spectacular vistas in all of Ireland. We will visit the Cobh Heritage Centre, which tells the story of the 2 million-plus emigrants who departed from Cobh Harbor to foreign lands.
Cobh was also the last port of call for the Titanic before she sank. Naturally, we will also have some time for a ‘spirited’ visit to the famous Jameson Irish whiskey distillery. The balance of the afternoon is at leisure in the historic seaport town of Cork. Some of the main streets are built over channels where ships nuzzled their anchor-chains a century ago. Dinner tonight is at a local pub. (B, D)
DAY 8: CORK / WATERFORD / DUBLIN
Our first visit today is the town of Waterford, lying on the banks of the River Suir. We enjoy a visit of the world famous crystal factory. The afternoon is at leisure in Waterford. We then continue to Dublin for the evening. Dinner tonight is at a local pub. (B, D)
DAY 9: DUBLIN: EXCURSION TO GLENDALOUGH & VALE AVOCA
Our first stop today is to Glendalough– the Glen Between the Two Lakes. According to legend, St. Kevin retired to this spot to be alone because his good looks made him a source of temptation. He had to drown one persistent lady who followed him; another became a nun. These Sixth Century ruins are from the monastic community he founded. In time, this community became a great center of learning known as “Rome of the West”.
We will visit the Interpretative Center for Celtic Spirituality and celebrate Mass at a church en route. We then drive through Vale Avoca. We return to Dublin and the remainder of the afternoon is at leisure. Tonight, we go to Jury’s Cabaret for dinner and a comedy show. (B, D)
DAY 10: DUBLIN: CITY TOUR, PLUS GUINNESS BREWERY
Dublin, the name derives from “Dubh linn”, the Black Pool which was in the heart of historic Dublin. This ancient city was known to Ptolemy the Great. It saw the High King Brian Boru killed nearby fighting the Vikings. Both the Normans and the English invaded it. Henry VIII established Trinity College here to nurture the New Faith (Protestantism), while Catholicism was outlawed for over three hundred years. The famous Book of Kells is kept at the College. James Joyce, Oscar Wilde, and Molly Malone are among the city’s notables.
Our half-day sightseeing tour includes: viewing Georgian Dublin, Leinster House (Parliament), St. Patrick Cathedral (Church of Ireland), dating from 450A.D., and visiting Christ Church (founded by King Sitric of the Dublin Norsemen in 1038 and rebuilt in 1169 by the Normans).
Our last stop of the day is the Shrine of St. Valentine, after whom the February 14 holiday is named. After Mass our day is at leisure. Our last stop of the day, for those interested, is a stop at the famous Guinness Brewery. The afternoon is at leisure for shopping and browsing. Tonight we have a festive farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B, D)
DAY 11: RETURN USA
We transfer to the Dublin airport for our return flight to the USA. (B)
Note: While we do our very best at making sure all items listed in your itinerary are included, there are times when conditions beyond our control affect your program/itinerary, including but not limited to air carrier changes, delays, weather, political climate, time constraints, or changes by your tour leader and tour guide.
Download Brochure and Application
Included/Excluded
Round trip airline tickets
All taxes, fees and surcharges
Hotels on Half board Basis: 8 nights (open buffet breakfast, open buffet dinner)
Air-conditioned bus
Farewell dinner
English speaking guide
Entrance fees
Meeting and assistance at Arrival/Departure
Porterage Included in all hotels.
Whispers devises during the whole trip
Mass Daily
Porterage at airport
Breakfast, and dinner daily
Wine and mineral water with dinner
Fr. Gregory Bierbaum on a 12 Day Steps of St. Paul Pilgrimage to Greece & Greek Islands from Denver, CO (DEN) – September 12 – 23, 2025
Fr. Gregory Bierbaum on a 12 Day Steps of St. Paul Pilgrimage to Greece & Greek Islands from Denver, CO (DEN) – Sept. 12 – 23, 2025
About this tour
Sep 12, 2025 –DEPARTURE TO GREECE
Depart for your overnight flight to Greece, meals served on board
Sep 13, 2025 –ARRIVAL THESSALONIKI
Arrive in Thessaloniki where you will be met outside baggage claim and escorted to you vehicle for a transfer to the hotel. Later this afternoon, meet your guide for a short Orientation Tour. Enjoy a welcome dinner with fellow travelers this evening. Overnight in Thessaloniki.
Sep 14, 2025–THESSALONIKI
Thessaloniki, Greece’s second largest city with population of some 1 million and a vital cultural, industrial and commercial city, lies amphitheatrically on the Thermaicos Gulf, on the slopes of Mount Chortiatis. During the Roman period, it was the capital of Macedonia Secunda and during the Middle Ages, it was the second city of the Byzantine Empire. For 400 years it was occupied by the Ottoman Empire, until it was finally freed in 1912. We start our excursion of the city viewing the White Tower, an historical landmark.
Next, make your way up to the once upon a time, Acropolis, located in the upper part of the city. It is here, where you will have a superb panoramic view of the entire city with the Thermaic Gulf and Mount Olympus in the background. Then you wil visit Vlatadon Monastery which was believed it was the House of Jason. Further visit of St. Demetrios Basilica which was erected in the 5th century AD. Then we will visit Forum where ruins from 1st Century are excavated. Forum (Agora) is mentinoned in Acts as the Jews of the city started from here and went to Jason’s House to attack Saint Paul. Return to your motor coach and drive along the modern street, Egnatia, named after the famous Roman road, Via Egnatia. While driving, view the Arch of Gallerius and St. George’s Rotonda. The tour will end passing by the well preserved Byzantine Basilica of St. Sophia, an 8th Century structure, rich in mosaics and frescoes. Overnight in Thessaloniki
Sep 15, 2025–THESSALONIKI–KAVALA–PHILIPPI– THESSALONIKI
Kavala, the ancient site of Neapolis, founded in the 7th Century BC, is the very same place where St. Paul set foot on the European Continent during his second missionary journey, establishing a thriving Christian church in the nearby city of Philippi. The famous Egnatian road, which once ran from the Adriatic Sea to Constantinople, passed by this city. On the way to Philippi you will have the opportunity to view the St. Sylas Monastery named after one of St. Paul’s companions
. Arrive at the famous city of Philippi, one of the most interesting biblical and historical ancient cities. The city once known as Krinides, was renamed “Philippoi” after King Philip II, father of Alexander the Great. It is this place where Brutus and Cassius were defeated by Mark Antony and Junavian Augustus, granting the City of Philippi a great many privileges. From here, drive a short distance to the Baptistery and the River, where Lydia, the first European convert was baptised by St. Paul. Here at Lydia’s Springs you will have Mass. Return to the archaeological site for a guided tour through the excavations, marveling at the upper and lower parts as well as the Forum, the Walls, the two Basilicas and the Theatre.
Your guide will also point out the traditional prison, which once held St. Paul and St. Silas. After lunch in Philippi Site, we will do a short orientation tour of Kavala (Anceint Neapolis) and then drive back to Thessaloniki. Overnight in Thessaloniki.
Sep 16, 2025–THESSALONIKI–VERIA–VERGINA-KALAMBAKA
Your tour starts with a visit to Veria. We visit the Bema of Saint Paul and also we will visit the Synagogue where Saint Paul preached. Continue to visit the Royal Tombs of Vergina (Land of Alexander the Great).The tour includes visit of the newly completed exhibition bearing the founds of all 3 Tombs, one of them famous as the Tomb of King Philip the II, Father of Alexander the Great. Then, we will drive towards the town of Kalambaka. Overnight in Kalambaka.
Sep 17, 2025 –KALAMBAKA–METEORA–ATHENS
Today we will visit the monasteries of Meteora. One of the most remarkable sites in Greece: a group of monasteries perched atop pinnacles of rock up to 600 meters high. A rare geological phenomenon, a quirk of nature as it were, created these looming rocks which trust skywards from the plain of Thessaly, as if striving to come closer to God. These peculiarly impressive natural sculptures are known as Meteora because they do indeed seem to hang or hover (meteoro in Greek) above the plain. Their summits totally isolated from the rest of the world, were a refuge for many hermits from as early as the 11th century.
Three hundred years later the first monasteries were founded. Access to the monasteries and settlements was made by ladder and rope. Once we arrive to the monasteries you will admire the brickwork of the Byzantine workmanship. The Churches house the spectacular frescoes, ivory carving, manuscripts and the fine work of art previously supported by the Emperors at the time. Included in the tour is the visit of one monastery, the Monastery of Agios Stefanos (Nuns). *You are kindly requested to observe the strict clothing restrictions of the monasteries i.e. long skirts and covered shoulders for the ladies, long trousers for men otherwise entrance will be denied* After lunch we will start our drive towards Athens by stopping at Thermopylae where King Leonidas and his 300 Spartans fought against King Xerxes and his giant army. Overnight in Athens
Sep 18, 2025–ATHENS
On a tour to Athens you will view many significant historical and archaeological monuments that date back to the Golden Age of Pericles, in the 5th century BC. Visit the Parthenon, dedicated to the Goddess Athena, a unique masterpiece of Greek Architecture. This monument is recognized as the culmination of Greek architecture and sculpture. Examine the Propylea , which blends Doric and Ionic building principles. Continue to the Temple of the Athena Nike (Wingless Victory) and the Erechtheum Temple.
Next, you will visit Mars Hill, where St. Paul preached Christianity. You will also visit the Ancient Agora where Saint Paul preached to Athenians. Then you will see the Tower of the Winds, Herodes Atticus Theater, Theater of Dionyssos,Temple of Zeus, see the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the former Royal Palace which is now the House of Parliament. Continue to the University of Athens, the Academy of Athens, the National Library and then to the “Panathenian” Olympic Stadium where the first modern Olympic Games were held in 1896. Overnight in Athens.
Sep 19, 2025–Athens- Mykonos–free afternoon
Transfer to the port to take your 3 night cruise ship. Late afternoon, arrive at the beautiful island of Mykonos. Overnight sail to Santorini.
Sep 20, 2025-Santorini free day
Arrive at the island of Santorini with the breathtaking view of the Aegean sea and the volcano. Optional shore excursion to Oia where are the Blue Domes. Afternoon sailing to Kusadasi-Turkey.
Sep 21, 2025-Kusadasi (excursion to Ephesus)/Patmos (excursion to Cave of St. John where he wrote the Apocalypse)
Arrive at Kusadasi, continue by coach to Ephesus and explore ruins of the ancient city. Celebrate Mass at Panaya Kapula (the House of the Virgin Mary) in Ephesus. Afternoon visit to the island of Patmos where you visit the Grotto and Monastery of Saint John. Overnight sail to Heraklion-Crete.
Sep 22, 2025–CORINTH, CENCHRAEAE, ATHENS
Today after your disembarkation, your tour is to Corinth. Journey outside Athens to walk among the ancients in Corinth, a once rich and powerful city known for luxury and vice and see the incredible Corinth Canal, cut through miles of solid rock. Follow the sacred way which led to Eleusis, known in antiquity for its sanctuary of Demeter, whose legendary search for her daughter Persephone explained to the ancients the cause of the seasons. A modern highway takes you past olive fields and numerous small villages, including Megara, whose inhabitants colonized in Asia Minor under the leadership of Byzas and founded the city of Byzantium – which later gave its name to the Byzantine Empire.
Driving along the coast leads to the majestic Corinth Canal, an engineering triumph century in the making. Nero, Rome’s most infamous emperor, inaugurated one attempt in 67 AD with his golden spade, but it was the Greeks who finally conquered the steep rock in 1893. Prior to the canal, ships were dragged from the Ionian Sea to the Aegean Sea using a wooden road with special grooves greased with wax. Traces of the road can still be seen. Continue on to Ancient Corinth, a city blessed with a superb location, fertile plains and a virtually impregnable refuge.
Excavations reveal that the ancient city was huge and wealthy; a survivor of numerous invasions but devastated by earthquakes. See the Bema, where St. Paul was tried by the Roman Governor, and one of Corinth’s most striking ancient buildings – the Temple of Apollo, seven of whose original 38 columns still stand. Walk through the remains of the Market Place, a colonnaded square once surrounded by many small shops.
See the celebrated Fountain of Priene, which has produced water from earliest times and Lechaion Road, formerly the main thoroughfare to the port of Lecaion. You will have Mass under the trees at the Ancient Corinth. Before returning to Athens, you will pass by Cenchraeae, the ancient port region of Corinth. Acts 18:18 states saint Paul stopped at Cenchraeae during his second missionary journey, where he had his hair cut to fulfill a vow. Overnight in Athens
Sep 23, 2025-DEPARTURE
You fly back home, full of memories of a lifetime experience journey.
Download Brochure and Application
Included/Excluded
Round trip airline tickets.
Meet and assist at airports upon arrivals and departures.
Three overnights in Athens (Avenue hotel or similar) including breakfast and dinner daily.
One overnight in Kalambaka (hotel Amalia or similar) including breakfast and dinner daily.
Three overnights in Thessaloniki (hotel Kapsis or similar) including breakfast and dinner daily.
3 night/4 day cruise.
Air-conditioned motor coach throughout for all tours and transfers.
Services of English-speaking professional, licensed guide for
all sites and museums as per itinerary.
Dinners during tours includes one soft drink or glass of wine per person.
Welcome dinner in Thessaloniki includes house wine.
Transfers from and to airports.
Entrance fees as per itinerary.
Road tolls and all applicable taxes.
Lunches
Tips for tour escort, Guides and Drivers.
Mass daily
Soft drinks. (Except while on the Cruise).
All Personal Expenses.
Travel Insurance.
Anything that’s not mentioned in “included”.
Fr. Jose Cortes on a 12 Days Jubilee Year Pilgrimage to Rome from Minneapolis, MN (MSP) November 10 – 21, 2025
Fr. Jose Cortes on a 12 Day Jubilee Year Pilgrimage to Rome from Minneapolis, MN (MSP) November 10 – 21, 2025
About this tour
DAY 1: Monday, Departure
Depart the USA on an overnight flight to Italy.
DAY 2: Tuesday, Arrival / Padova, City of St Antony
Early morning arrival at Venice‘s airport. We will meet our tour manager after the baggage claim area, continue to Padova where we will explore the Basilica of St. Anthony and celebrate Mass Then transfer to the hotel for dinner and overnight (D)
DAY 3: Wednesday, Venice, La Serenissima
We enjoy the entire day in Venice. An incredible site awaits us as we approach this romantic city by private. In the morning we visit the Basilica of St Mark, including the incredible PALA D’ORO, and walk through the city to see the most famous bridges: Rialto and Bridge of Sights. Break for lunch. The afternoon is at our leisure for optional tours (Murano and Burano islands to visit the glass factory) or a Gondola ride. Return to the dock by boat and transfer to the hotel for dinner and overnight (B. D)
DAY 4: Thursday, Venice / Pisa / Florence
Depart Venice after breakfast, to Pisa (approx. 4 hrs. drive) – Meet the guide to visit the monuments: Duomo and Baptistery. Time at leisure for lunch and for an optional visit to the Leaning Tower (313 steps to climb to reach the top) – Continue to Florence, check-in at the hotel, dinner, and overnight (BD)
DAY 5: Friday, Florence The Cadre of Renaissance
After breakfast in the hotel this morning, we meet our local guide, and we will soon discover why Florence is the undisputed cradle of the Renaissance era. Here one almost breathes art and culture into its charming medieval streets, in craftsmen’s workshops, Renaissance palaces, and the world-renowned museums, all found within the downtown area of Florence.
The memories of the Medici family are united with the splendor of the works of illustrious artists such as Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Botticelli the day’s piece de resistance is unquestionably the pinnacle of our bus tour: we’ll enter The Academia Gallery, the location of Michelangelo’s incredible marble statue of David! We’ll visit the busy San Lorenzo Market in the heart of the city! The swarm of colors and delicious smells is truly a kitchen gourmet’s muse with its plethora of artisan bread in all shapes and sizes, tables overflowing with fruits and vegetables fresh from the farms, and surrounded by an immense variety of cheeses and cured meats. Gourmands and wine connoisseurs alike lap up the morning inside this fabulous market, followed by a Florentine wine & cheese tasting extravaganza. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure to explore Florence on your own. A site not to be missed is the Ponte Vecchio, a bridge covered since medieval times with goldsmith shops featuring a Florentine specialty—handcrafted gold jewelry, with other unique creations. We meet up again at an authentic Florentine wine bar.
This exclusive food-lover’s excursion allows you to be guided by a distinguished sommelier as he matches four traditional wines with a luscious tasting of an assortment of locally sourced artisan cheeses accompanied by the many other authentic Italian food pairings that are traditionally served with wines—such as fresh figs, truffle honey, aromatic strawberry preserves, aged balsamic vinegar from Modena, and fresh bread. In the afternoon continue with the walking tour, to see the Baptistry of St. John, (Outside) the religious historic jewel of the city with Michelangelo’s Gates of Paradise, so called because of their exquisite beauty; it is believed that the creation of these art pieces marked the beginning of the period to be known as the Renaissance. We see the Piazza Della Signoria, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, and Giotto’s Bell Tower And then return to our hotel for dinner and overnight (BD.)
DAY 6: Saturday, Florence / Siena/ Assisi
After breakfast, we check out and drive to Siena where we delight in exploring the birthplace of one of the most popular saints, St. Catherine [1347-1380 CE], patron saint of Italy and of Europe. This ancient city is also famous for its cuisine and the rich red color of its medieval cityscape. The historic center has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
We meet the guide to see the city’s major treasures, including the fabulous marble Gothic Duomo Cathedral, and the Piazza del Campo—town square—Continue to Assisi. Check-in at the hotel, dinner, and overnight (BD)
DAY 7: Sunday, Assisi
This morning, we will have a guided tour of this famously charming and historic city, the birthplace of the beloved St. Francis! We will visit the Church of Santa Chiara and then we proceed to the site where St. Francis was born: the house where he spent his childhood. We reach the very heart of the town, the Piazza del Commune (Town Hall square), with its Roman and medieval buildings, continuing towards the ancient city walls to the Basilica of St. Francis built above the inspiring final resting place of the saint.
The interiors of the basilica are intricately decorated with frescoes from the 12th and 13th centuries depicting the various stages of the saint’s life and spiritual transformation to a life of poverty and dedication to the poor) After breaking for lunch and for shopping, in the afternoon we also explore Santa Maria Degli Angeli built over the place where Francis lived in his later years. We will see the Portiuncola Chapel and the Chapel of Transit. Return to the hotel for dinner and overnight (BD)
DAY 8: Monday, Assisi / Lanciano / San Giovanni Rotondo
After a good breakfast, we check out and drive to Lanciano, to visit the Church of St Francis. This Church is the site of the Eucharistic Miracle that occurred in the eighth century. Celebrate Mass. Continue to San Giovanni Rotondo Check in at the hotel, have Dinner and overnight at the hotel (BD)
DAY 9: Tuesday, San Giovanni Rotondo / Rome
This morning is dedicated to Saint Padre Pio. We honor his work as we visit his tomb, his cell, his confessional, and the Capuchin Monastery of Our Lady of Grace. where we celebrate Mass, We will also visit the new Church of Santa Maria Delle Grazie and the Home for the Relief of the Suffering. After breaking for lunch we depart for Rome, where we arrive in the evening. Check-in at the hotel, dinner, and overnight (BD)
DAY 10: Wednesday, Papal Audience / Major Basilicas
This morning we will join the pilgrims that come from all over the world and seat in San Peter’s square (or in the Paolo VI Hall) to attend the Papal Audience and blessing. – After breaking for lunch, we continue our guided tour by visiting two of the other major basilicas of Rome.
We begin our tour with the Basilica of St John in Lateran which houses a fragment of the table on which Jesus consumed his last supper, from there we cross the street to the Holy Stairs so named because they are the steps that lead to the praetorium of the Roman Procurator Ponzio Pilato, finally we reach the Basilica of St Mary Major. The crypt is built to resemble the cave of Nativity in Bethlehem and there is a reliquary containing part of the Holy Crib in which our Lord Jesus Christ once lay. – We celebrate Mass and return to the hotel for dinner and overnight (BD
DAY 11: Thursday, Vatican Museums / Trevi Fountain
We will begin the day with a visit to one of the most important museums in the world. Legally its own country, Vatican City is the head and administrative center of the Catholic Church. One of the most extensive museum collections in the world, the museum is also home to the Sistine Chapel, where the legendary Michelangelo created one of his most famous masterpieces on the ceiling. After the museums we will visit St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest Catholic Basilica ever built. Its soaring dome was engineered by Michelangelo and the artist’s famous Pieta sculpture and countless other artistic wonders make St. Peter’s church one of the most awe–inspiring buildings in the world.
– After breaking for lunch, we will reach the city center. Celebrate Mass at a selected church. Enjoy a walking tour starting from Navona Square, we walk to the Pantheon and to the Trevi Fountain. The balance of the day is at our leisure. Return to the hotel for dinner and overnight (BD)
DAY 12: Friday, Departure
After breakfast, we will transfer to the airport for our flight home. We will arrive home on the same day. (B)
Download Brochure and Application
Included/Excluded
Ten nights’ accommodation in Italy in double occupancy with breakfast and dinner.
11 days sightseeing in modern air-conditioned private bus.
English speaking government licensed Christian guide on duty.
Sightseeing and admissions fees as per itinerary
Spiritual activities
Luggage handling (1 piece per person)
portfolio of all travel documents
Wine with dinner
Private boat transfers in Venice
portfolio of all travel documents
12 Days Rome “The Eternal City” from Denver, CO (DEN) September 30 - October 11, 2024 with Father Derrek Scott and Father Joseph Vigil
12 Days Rome “The Eternal City” from Denver, CO (DEN)
September 30 - October 11, 2024
- with Father Derrek Scott and Father Joseph Vigil
All Italian Shrines
Rome (Pope Francis) * San Giovanni Rotondo (Padre Pio) * Monte Sant'Angelo (St. Michael) Lanciano (Eucharistic Miracle) * Assisi (St. Francis) * Padua* Venice * Florance * Siena
DAY 1: Monday, Departure
Depart the USA on an overnight flight to Italy.
DAY 2: Tuesday, Arrival / Padova, City of St Antony
Early morning arrival at Venice‘s airport. We will meet our tour manager after the baggage claim area, continue to Padova where we will explore the Basilica of St. Anthony and celebrate Mass Then transfer to the hotel for dinner and overnight (D)
DAY 3: Wednesday, Venice, La Serenissima
We enjoy the entire day in Venice. An incredible site awaits us as we approach this romantic city by private. In the morning we visit the Basilica of St Mark, including the incredible PALA D’ORO, and walk through the city to see the most famous bridges: Rialto and Bridge of Sights. Break for lunch. The afternoon is at our leisure for optional tours (Murano and Burano islands to visit the glass factory) or a Gondola ride. Return to the dock by boat and transfer to the hotel for dinner and overnight (B. D)
DAY 4: Thursday, Venice / Pisa / Florence
Depart Venice after breakfast, to Pisa (approx. 4 hrs. drive) - Meet the guide to visit the monuments: Duomo and Baptistery. Time at leisure for lunch and for an optional visit to the Leaning Tower (313 steps to climb to reach the top) - Continue to Florence, check-in at the hotel, dinner, and overnight (BD)
DAY 5: Friday, Florence The Cadre of Renaissance
After breakfast in the hotel this morning, we meet our local guide, and we will soon discover why Florence is the undisputed cradle of the Renaissance era. Here one almost breathes art and culture into its charming medieval streets, in craftsmen's workshops, Renaissance palaces, and the world-renowned museums, all found within the downtown area of Florence. The memories of the Medici family are united with the splendor of the works of illustrious artists such as Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Botticelli the day’s piece de resistance is unquestionably the pinnacle of our bus tour: we’ll enter The Academia Gallery, the location of Michelangelo’s incredible marble statue of David! We’ll visit the busy San Lorenzo Market in the heart of the city! The swarm of colors and delicious smells is truly a kitchen gourmet’s muse with its plethora of artisan bread in all shapes and sizes, tables overflowing with fruits and vegetables fresh from the farms, and surrounded by an immense variety of cheeses and cured meats. Gourmands and wine connoisseurs alike lap up the morning inside this fabulous market, followed by a Florentine wine & cheese tasting extravaganza. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure to explore Florence on your own. A site not to be missed is the Ponte Vecchio, a bridge covered since medieval times with goldsmith shops featuring a Florentine specialty—handcrafted gold jewelry, with other unique creations. We meet up again at an authentic Florentine wine bar. This exclusive food-lover's excursion allows you to be guided by a distinguished sommelier as he matches four traditional wines with a luscious tasting of an assortment of locally sourced artisan cheeses accompanied by the many other authentic Italian food pairings that are traditionally served with wines—such as fresh figs, truffle honey, aromatic strawberry preserves, aged balsamic vinegar from Modena, and fresh bread. In the afternoon continue with the walking tour, to see the Baptistry of St. John, (Outside) the religious historic jewel of the city with Michelangelo’s Gates of Paradise, so called because of their exquisite beauty; it is believed that the creation of these art pieces marked the beginning of the period to be known as the Renaissance. We see the Piazza Della Signoria, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, and Giotto’s Bell Tower And then return to our hotel for dinner and overnight (BD.)
DAY 6: Saturday, Florence / Siena/ Assisi
After breakfast, we check out and drive to Siena where we delight in exploring the birthplace of one of the most popular saints, St. Catherine [1347-1380 CE], patron saint of Italy and of Europe. This ancient city is also famous for its cuisine and the rich red color of its medieval cityscape. The historic center has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
We meet the guide to see the city’s major treasures, including the fabulous marble Gothic Duomo Cathedral, and the Piazza del Campo—town square—Continue to Assisi. Check-in at the hotel, dinner, and overnight (BD)
DAY 7: Sunday, Assisi
This morning, we will have a guided tour of this famously charming and historic city, the birthplace of the beloved St. Francis! We will visit the Church of Santa Chiara and then we proceed to the site where St. Francis was born: the house where he spent his childhood. We reach the very heart of the town, the Piazza del Commune (Town Hall square), with its Roman and medieval buildings, continuing towards the ancient city walls to the Basilica of St. Francis built above the inspiring final resting place of the saint. The interiors of the basilica are intricately decorated with frescoes from the 12th and 13th centuries depicting the various stages of the saint’s life and spiritual transformation to a life of poverty and dedication to the poor) After breaking for lunch and for shopping, in the afternoon we also explore Santa Maria Degli Angeli built over the place where Francis lived in his later years. We will see the Portiuncola Chapel and the Chapel of Transit. Return to the hotel for dinner and overnight (BD)
DAY 8: Monday, Assisi / Lanciano / San Giovanni Rotondo
After a good breakfast, we check out and drive to Lanciano, to visit the Church of St Francis. This Church is the site of the Eucharistic Miracle that occurred in the eighth century. Celebrate Mass. Continue to San Giovanni Rotondo Check in at the hotel, have Dinner and overnight at the hotel (BD)
DAY 9: Tuesday, San Giovanni Rotondo / Rome
This morning is dedicated to Saint Padre Pio. We honor his work as we visit his tomb, his cell, his confessional, and the Capuchin Monastery of Our Lady of Grace. where we celebrate Mass, We will also visit the new Church of Santa Maria Delle Grazie and the Home for the Relief of the Suffering. After breaking for lunch we depart for Rome, where we arrive in the evening. Check-in at the hotel, dinner, and overnight (BD)
DAY 10: Wednesday, Papal Audience / Major Basilicas
This morning we will join the pilgrims that come from all over the world and seat in San Peter’s square (or in the Paolo VI Hall) to attend the Papal Audience and blessing. – After breaking for lunch, we continue our guided tour by visiting two of the other major basilicas of Rome. We begin our tour with the Basilica of St John in Lateran which houses a fragment of the table on which Jesus consumed his last supper, from there we cross the street to the Holy Stairs so named because they are the steps that lead to the praetorium of the Roman Procurator Ponzio Pilato, finally we reach the Basilica of St Mary Major. The crypt is built to resemble the cave of Nativity in Bethlehem and there is a reliquary containing part of the Holy Crib in which our Lord Jesus Christ once lay. – We celebrate Mass and return to the hotel for dinner and overnight (BD
DAY 11: Thursday, Vatican Museums / Trevi Fountain
We will begin the day with a visit to one of the most important museums in the world. Legally its own country, Vatican City is the head and administrative center of the Catholic Church. One of the most extensive museum collections in the world, the museum is also home to the Sistine Chapel, where the legendary Michelangelo created one of his most famous masterpieces on the ceiling. After the museums we will visit St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest Catholic Basilica ever built. Its soaring dome was engineered by Michelangelo and the artist’s famous Pieta sculpture and countless other artistic wonders make St. Peter’s church one of the most awe–inspiring buildings in the world. – After breaking for lunch, we will reach the city center. Celebrate Mass at a selected church. Enjoy a walking tour starting from Navona Square, we walk to the Pantheon and to the Trevi Fountain. The balance of the day is at our leisure. Return to the hotel for dinner and overnight (BD)
DAY 12: Friday, Departure
After breakfast, we will transfer to the airport for our flight home. We will arrive home on the same day. (B)
DOWNLOAD BROCHURE AND APPLICATION
Trip date: September 30 - October 11, 2024
Departure City: Denver, CO (DEN) (other cities available)
Package Price: $4690.00
Single supplement: $950.00 (Private Room)
The package price includes the following:
Meet & Assist at Rome Airport upon arrival and departure.
Ten nights’ accommodation in Italy in double occupancy with breakfast and dinner.
11 days sightseeing in modern air-conditioned private bus.
English speaking government licensed Christian guide on duty.
Wine with dinners
Sightseeing and admissions fees as per itinerary
Spiritual activities
Luggage handling (1 piece per person)
portfolio of all travel documents
Wine with dinner
Private boat transfers in Venice
portfolio of all travel documents
Optional:
Travel Insurance optional
The package price does not include the following:
Lunches and soft drinks
Tips to your guide & driver
Items of a personal nature.
12 Days Rome “The Eternal City” from Denver, CO (DEN) May 13 - 24, 2024 with Fr. Erin Kochivar
12 Days Rome “The Eternal City” from Denver, CO (DEN)
May 13 - 24, 2024
with Fr. Erin Kochivar
All Italian Shrines
Rome (Pope Francis) * San Giovanni Rotondo (Padre Pio) * Monte Sant'Angelo (St. Michael) Lanciano (Eucharistic Miracle) * Assisi (St. Francis) * Padua* Venice * Florance * Siena
DAY 1: Monday, Departure
Depart the USA on an overnight flight to Italy.
DAY 2: Tuesday, Arrival / Padova, City of St Antony
Early morning arrival at Venice‘s airport. We will meet our tour manager after the baggage claim area, continue to Padova where we will explore the Basilica of St. Anthony and celebrate Mass Then transfer to the hotel for dinner and overnight (D)
DAY 3: Wednesday, Venice, La Serenissima
We enjoy the entire day in Venice. An incredible site awaits us as we approach this romantic city by private. In the morning we visit the Basilica of St Mark, including the incredible PALA D’ORO, and walk through the city to see the most famous bridges: Rialto and Bridge of Sights. Break for lunch. The afternoon is at our leisure for optional tours (Murano and Burano islands to visit the glass factory) or a Gondola ride. Return to the dock by boat and transfer to the hotel for dinner and overnight (B. D)
DAY 4: Thursday, Venice / Pisa / Florence
Depart Venice after breakfast, to Pisa (approx. 4 hrs. drive) - Meet the guide to visit the monuments: Duomo and Baptistery. Time at leisure for lunch and for an optional visit to the Leaning Tower (313 steps to climb to reach the top) - Continue to Florence, check-in at the hotel, dinner, and overnight (BD)
DAY 5: Friday, Florence The Cadre of Renaissance
After breakfast in the hotel this morning, we meet our local guide, and we will soon discover why Florence is the undisputed cradle of the Renaissance era. Here one almost breathes art and culture into its charming medieval streets, in craftsmen's workshops, Renaissance palaces, and the world-renowned museums, all found within the downtown area of Florence. The memories of the Medici family are united with the splendor of the works of illustrious artists such as Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, and Botticelli the day’s piece de resistance is unquestionably the pinnacle of our bus tour: we’ll enter The Academia Gallery, the location of Michelangelo’s incredible marble statue of David! We’ll visit the busy San Lorenzo Market in the heart of the city! The swarm of colors and delicious smells is truly a kitchen gourmet’s muse with its plethora of artisan bread in all shapes and sizes, tables overflowing with fruits and vegetables fresh from the farms, and surrounded by an immense variety of cheeses and cured meats. Gourmands and wine connoisseurs alike lap up the morning inside this fabulous market, followed by a Florentine wine & cheese tasting extravaganza. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure to explore Florence on your own. A site not to be missed is the Ponte Vecchio, a bridge covered since medieval times with goldsmith shops featuring a Florentine specialty—handcrafted gold jewelry, with other unique creations. We meet up again at an authentic Florentine wine bar. This exclusive food-lover's excursion allows you to be guided by a distinguished sommelier as he matches four traditional wines with a luscious tasting of an assortment of locally sourced artisan cheeses accompanied by the many other authentic Italian food pairings that are traditionally served with wines—such as fresh figs, truffle honey, aromatic strawberry preserves, aged balsamic vinegar from Modena, and fresh bread. In the afternoon continue with the walking tour, to see the Baptistry of St. John, (Outside) the religious historic jewel of the city with Michelangelo’s Gates of Paradise, so called because of their exquisite beauty; it is believed that the creation of these art pieces marked the beginning of the period to be known as the Renaissance. We see the Piazza Della Signoria, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, and Giotto’s Bell Tower And then return to our hotel for dinner and overnight (BD.)
DAY 6: Saturday, Florence / Siena/ Assisi
After breakfast, we check out and drive to Siena where we delight in exploring the birthplace of one of the most popular saints, St. Catherine [1347-1380 CE], patron saint of Italy and of Europe. This ancient city is also famous for its cuisine and the rich red color of its medieval cityscape. The historic center has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
We meet the guide to see the city’s major treasures, including the fabulous marble Gothic Duomo Cathedral, and the Piazza del Campo—town square—Continue to Assisi. Check-in at the hotel, dinner, and overnight (BD)
DAY 7: Sunday, Assisi
This morning, we will have a guided tour of this famously charming and historic city, the birthplace of the beloved St. Francis! We will visit the Church of Santa Chiara and then we proceed to the site where St. Francis was born: the house where he spent his childhood. We reach the very heart of the town, the Piazza del Commune (Town Hall square), with its Roman and medieval buildings, continuing towards the ancient city walls to the Basilica of St. Francis built above the inspiring final resting place of the saint. The interiors of the basilica are intricately decorated with frescoes from the 12th and 13th centuries depicting the various stages of the saint’s life and spiritual transformation to a life of poverty and dedication to the poor) After breaking for lunch and for shopping, in the afternoon we also explore Santa Maria Degli Angeli built over the place where Francis lived in his later years. We will see the Portiuncola Chapel and the Chapel of Transit. Return to the hotel for dinner and overnight (BD)
DAY 8: Monday, Assisi / Lanciano / San Giovanni Rotondo
After a good breakfast, we check out and drive to Lanciano, to visit the Church of St Francis. This Church is the site of the Eucharistic Miracle that occurred in the eighth century. Celebrate Mass. Continue to San Giovanni Rotondo Check in at the hotel, have Dinner and overnight at the hotel (BD)
DAY 9: Tuesday, San Giovanni Rotondo / Rome
This morning is dedicated to Saint Padre Pio. We honor his work as we visit his tomb, his cell, his confessional, and the Capuchin Monastery of Our Lady of Grace. where we celebrate Mass, We will also visit the new Church of Santa Maria Delle Grazie and the Home for the Relief of the Suffering. After breaking for lunch we depart for Rome, where we arrive in the evening. Check-in at the hotel, dinner, and overnight (BD)
DAY 10: Wednesday, Papal Audience / Major Basilicas
This morning we will join the pilgrims that come from all over the world and seat in San Peter’s square (or in the Paolo VI Hall) to attend the Papal Audience and blessing. – After breaking for lunch, we continue our guided tour by visiting two of the other major basilicas of Rome. We begin our tour with the Basilica of St John in Lateran which houses a fragment of the table on which Jesus consumed his last supper, from there we cross the street to the Holy Stairs so named because they are the steps that lead to the praetorium of the Roman Procurator Ponzio Pilato, finally we reach the Basilica of St Mary Major. The crypt is built to resemble the cave of Nativity in Bethlehem and there is a reliquary containing part of the Holy Crib in which our Lord Jesus Christ once lay. – We celebrate Mass and return to the hotel for dinner and overnight (BD
DAY 11: Thursday, Vatican Museums / Trevi Fountain
We will begin the day with a visit to one of the most important museums in the world. Legally its own country, Vatican City is the head and administrative center of the Catholic Church. One of the most extensive museum collections in the world, the museum is also home to the Sistine Chapel, where the legendary Michelangelo created one of his most famous masterpieces on the ceiling. After the museums we will visit St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest Catholic Basilica ever built. Its soaring dome was engineered by Michelangelo and the artist’s famous Pieta sculpture and countless other artistic wonders make St. Peter’s church one of the most awe–inspiring buildings in the world. – After breaking for lunch, we will reach the city center. Celebrate Mass at a selected church. Enjoy a walking tour starting from Navona Square, we walk to the Pantheon and to the Trevi Fountain. The balance of the day is at our leisure. Return to the hotel for dinner and overnight (BD)
DAY 12: Friday, Departure
After breakfast, we will transfer to the airport for our flight home. We will arrive home on the same day. (B)
DOWNLOAD BROCHURE AND APPLICATION
Trip date: May 13 - 24, 2024
Departure City: Denver, CO (DEN) (other cities available)
Package Price: $4490.00
Single supplement: $950.00 (Private Room)
The package price includes the following:
Meet & Assist at Rome Airport upon arrival and departure.
Ten nights’ accommodation in Italy in double occupancy with breakfast and dinner.
11 days sightseeing in modern air-conditioned private bus.
English speaking government licensed Christian guide on duty.
Wine with dinners
Sightseeing and admissions fees as per itinerary
Spiritual activities
Luggage handling (1 piece per person)
portfolio of all travel documents
Wine with dinner
Private boat transfers in Venice
portfolio of all travel documents
Optional:
Travel Insurance optional
The package price does not include the following:
Lunches and soft drinks
Tips to your guide & driver
Items of a personal nature.
12 Days Greece & Greek Islands from Denver, CO - May 07 - 18, 2024 - With Father Tim Gaines
12 Days Greece & Greek Islands from Denver, CO
- May 07 - 18, 2024
- With Father Tim Gaines
11 Day life Changing Journey to the Holy Land from Denver, CO (DEN) – May 07 – 17, 2024 – With Fr. Boguslaw Rebacz
11 Days life Changing Journey to the Holy Land from Denver, CO (DEN)
– May 07 – 17, 2024
– With Fr. Boguslaw Rebacz
About this Pilgrimage
Day One: Departure
Depart for your overnight flights to the Holy Land. Meals will be served on board.
Day Two: Arrival
Arrive at Ben Gurion Airport, Tel Aviv. Meet and Assist by your Guide, then transfer to your hotel in Tiberius, approximately two and a half hours drive. En route a possible visit to Caesarea Maritima, a harbor city that was built by Herod the Great. Dinner and overnight in Tiberius.
Day Three: Nazareth /Cana of Galilee/ Mount Tabor
† Mass at Annunciation Church
Begin the day with a visit to Nazareth, the town where Jesus grew up. Visit the Basilica of Annunciation (Mass), marking the annunciation by the Angel Gabriel of the birth of Jesus. See Mary’s well and the grotto, believed to have been the home of the Virgin Mary; the centuries-old Church of St. Gabriel. Continue to Cana of Galilee, where Jesus performed His first miracle of turning water into wine during a wedding feast. See the Wedding Church. End the day by going to Mt. Tabor and visiting the beautiful two-level Basilica of the Transfiguration, marking the Transfiguration of Jesus before Peter and James and talking with Moses and Elias. Enjoy the breathtaking view of the valley below. Dinner and overnight in the hotel in Tiberias.
Day Four: Golan Heights/Sea of Galilee
† Mass at Capernaum
After breakfast, we drive to Golan Height to visit Caesarea Philippi which became an important Christian pilgrimage destination as the place where Jesus asked the disciples “Who do people say I am?”. Drive back to Tiberius to Follow the footsteps of Jesus’ ministry in the villages around the Sea of Galilee, begin with a visit to Capernaum, often called the hometown of Christ. Capernaum is where Jesus healed a centurion’s servant, Peter’s mother-in-law, and many others who were brought to Him. See the church marking St. Peter’s house. Continue to Tabgha and visit the church of Multiplication of the Loaves and Fish, commemorating Jesus’ miracle of feeding 5,000 men. See the Church of St. Peter’s Primacy (Mass), where Jesus appeared to the disciples after the resurrection. The next stop is Mt. of Beatitudes, the hill where He preached the Sermon on the Mount to the multitudes that stood below. The journey continues as you are welcome to take a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee and remember the events which took place in the area. Return to hotel for dinner and overnight.
Day Five: Haifa/ Mount Carmel/ Jaffa/Bethlehem
† Mass at Stella Marris
Drive to Mt. Carmel, visit Carmelites’ monastery Stella Maris Church (Mass). It was Mt. Carmel that Prophet Elijah chose for gathering together all the people with the prophets of Baal to prove who the True God is. Proceed to the Hanging Gardens of Haifa, also known as the Terraces of Baha’i Faith. These garden terraces form the Shrine of the Baal on Mount Carmel. Described as the Eighth Wonder of the World, they are one of the most visited tourist attractions in the country. Drive to Caesarea Maritima, a city and harbor built by Herod the Great about XXV-XIII BC. Today, its ruins lie on the Mediterranean coast of Israel about halfway between the cities of Tel Aviv and Haifa. It is here that Apostle Peter baptized Cornelius the Centurion and following it established there a church. Continue to Joppa (Jaffa), an ancient port city, which is believed to be one of the oldest in the world. The Bible says that St. Peters’ resurrection of the widow Tabitha takes place in Joppa. Dinner and overnight in Bethlehem.
Day Six: Shepherd’s Field/ Bethlehem
† Mass at Bethlehem Basilica
After breakfast, we stop in Beth Sahour to visit the Shepherds’ Fields, identified with shepherds who saw the Star of Nativity. Continue to Bethlehem visit the Nativity Church, Chapel of the Innocents, Church of St. Katherine, and the Manger Square. See the Milk Grotto, where, according to tradition, the Holy Family took refuge during the Slaughter of the Innocents, before their flight into Egypt. Tradition has it that while Mary was nursing Jesus here, a drop of her divine milk fell to the ground, turning it white. Dinner and overnight in Bethlehem.
Day Seven: Bethany / Dead Sea/ Qumran/ Jericho
† Mass at Bethany Church
After Breakfast, we make a stop at Bethany to visit the house of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus and the Tomb of Lazarus, proceed to visit Jericho which has been the cradle of civilization as far back as 7,000 to 10,000 B.C. It was the first city taken by the oldest cities in the world. It was the first city taken by the tribes of Israel after they crossed the River Jordan. In Jericho, Christ cured a blind man It was here that the chief tax collector Zacchaeus, who was short of stature, climbed a sycamore tree so that he could see Jesus, View Mount of Temptation situated in the northwest of Jericho over-looking the world’s most ancient city. After Lunch in Jericho, we drive to Qumran where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered. Visit the remains of the Community Center of the Essences and the Caves of the Scrolls. From there we drive to a private beach on the Dead Sea for a dip in the salt and mineral-laden. Finally, you can renew our baptismal vows, at the traditional baptismal site on the river Jordan. Dinner and overnight in Bethlehem.
Day Eight: Mt. Olives/ Mt Zion
† Mass at Dominus Flevit
Begin your visit with one of the most magnificent views in the world: ancient Jerusalem as seen from the top of the Mt. of Olives. Visit the Pater Noster Church, where the Prayer “Our Father” is inscribed in dozens of languages, Church of Ascension, marking the place where Jesus ascended to Heaven. Then down the Mt. of Olives in the footsteps of Jesus take the Palm Sunday Walk. Stop at Dominus Flevit (‘the Lord Wept’). From there we drive to Mt. Zion to visit the church of St. Peter’s in Gallicantu the church of the Dormition, King David’s Tomb, and the Room of the Last Supper. Drive back to Bethlehem for Dinner. After Dinner, we will have a special Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament at the Basilica of the Agony in the Garden of Gethsemane, for prayer and contemplation see the Rock where Jesus prayed for God’s will to be done. overnight in Bethlehem
Day Nine: Old City of Jerusalem
† Mass in the Old City
Begin the day with a walk in the Old City of Jerusalem (The way of the cross “Via Dolorosa”). Among others today we shall see the Holy Sepulcher (Mass), the Western Wall, the Dome of the Rock and the temple mount, “Ecce Homo” Arch, Pilate’s Judgment Hall, Chapel of the Flagellation, St. Anne’s Church, and Bethesda. Return to hotel for Dinner and overnight in Bethlehem.
Day Ten: Ein Karem
† Mass in Ein Karem
In the morning, we head to Ein Karem (spring of the Vineyard), according to tradition, the place of birth of John the Baptist. There are two churches by his name in the place. See the Church of the Visitation, built on the place where the pregnant Mary visited her pregnant cousin Elizabeth and stayed for three months. Enjoy a free afternoon in Bethlehem or Jerusalem and take in the beauty of the country. We will enjoy our fair well dinner at a local restaurant and enjoy a folklore show and dance. Overnight in Bethlehem.
Day Eleven: Departure
After breakfast, check out of our hotel and head to the airport for our journey back home.
Download Brochure and Application
Included/Excluded
Round-trip airline ticket
Round trip bus transportation Church/Airport/Church
Meet & Assist at Ben Gurion Airport upon arrival and departure.
Three nights’ accommodation in Tiberius in double occupancy with breakfast and dinner.
Six-night accommodation in Bethlehem in double occupancy with breakfast and dinner.
Ten days sightseeing in a modern air-conditioned private bus.
English-speaking government-licensed Christian guide on duty.
Entrance fees to places of interest whilst on tour in the Holy Land.
Special dinner at an oriental restaurant.
Mass daily
Lunches
Tips for guide and driver
Drinks at hotels and restaurants
All Personal Expenses.
Travel Insurance.
Durations = 11 Days
Languages = English
Denominational = Catholic Pilgrimages
Month =May
Year = 2024
Departure City = Denver
11 Day Holy Land Pilgrimage April 29 - May 09, 2024 from Denver, CO (DEN) with Father Paul Ekeh
11 Day Holy Land Pilgrimage April 29 - May 09, 2024 from Denver, CO (DEN) with Father Paul Ekeh
Day 1: Monday, Departure from USA
Depart for your overnight flights to the Holy Land.
Day 2: Tuesday, Arrive in Tel Aviv, Transfer to Tiberius.
Arrive in Tel Aviv.
Meet your guide and transfer to Tiberius.
Dinner and overnight at a hotel in Tiberius.
Day 3: Wednesday, Nazareth, Mount Tabor, Cana
Mass -Cana - Church
Cana of Galilee.
Nazareth, visiting the Basilica of the Annunciation. St. Joseph’s Church, and Mary’s well.
Mount Tabor.
Dinner and overnight at a hotel in Tiberius.
Day 4: Thursday, Banias, Sea of Galilee
Mass - Capernaum.
The Mount of Beatitudes for a time of prayer and reflection.
Caesarea Philippi.
Capernaum. St. Peter’s Primacy.
Tabaha, the site of the multiplication of the fishes and the loaves.
Enjoy a meal of “St. Peter’s fish” and a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee.
Dinner and overnight at a hotel in Tiberius.
Day 5: Friday, Mount Carmel, Coastal Plains.
Mass - Stella Marris
Mount Carmel. Stella Marris, Haifa.
Caesarea Maritime.
Depart to Jerusalem via Coastal Plains.
Dinner and overnight at a hotel in Bethlehem.
Day 6: Saturday, Bethlehem, Shepherd’s field.
Mass -Bethlehem – Basilica -
Shepherd’s Field in Beit Sahour.
The Church of the Nativity.
St. Catherine church, the Grotto of St. Jerome, Milk Grotto.
The old city of Bethlehem.
Dinner and overnight at a hotel in Bethlehem.
Day 7: Sunday, Dead Sea, Jericho, Bethany
Mass – Bethany.
Bethany, Lazarus tomb.
Qumran, site of the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls.
Baptism site (Jordan River).
Visit Jericho, Zacchaeus tree old city, and view the mount of Temptation.
Dinner and overnight at a hotel in Bethlehem.
Day 8: Monday, Mount of Olives, Mount Zion.
Mass – Jerusalem.
Panoramic view from the top of Mount Olives.
Ascension Hill on the Mount of Olives.
The Church of Pater Noster.
The Church of Dominus Flevit.
The Garden of Gethsemane and the Church of All Nations.
Mt. Zion and the Cenacle (Upper Room).
Dinner and overnight at a hotel in Bethlehem.
Day 9: Tuesday, Via Dolorosa, Holy Sepulcher
Mass - Jerusalem
The Western Wall.
St. Anne’s Church, the Pools of Bethesda.
Walk the Via Dolorosa ending at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher.
Free Time in the Old City of Jerusalem.
Dinner and overnight at hotel in Bethlehem.
Day 10: Wednesday, Ein Karem, Emmaus.
Mass – Ein Karem
Visit Ein Karem.
Visit Emmaus.
Dinner and overnight at a hotel in Bethlehem.
Day 11: Thursdays, Departure
Depart for the airport.
Note: *While we do our very best at making sure all items listed in your itinerary are included, there are times when conditions beyond our control affect your program/itinerary, including but not limited to air carrier changes, delays, weather, political climate, time constraints, or changes by your tour leader and tour guide.
DOWNLOAD BROCHURE AND APPLICATION
Trip date: April 29 - May 09, 2024
Departure City: Denver, CO (DEN) Package Price: $4290.00
A single supplement is $900.00 (Private room)
The package price includes the following:
Round Trip Airline Ticket
Meet & Assist at Ben Gurion Airport upon arrival and departures
Nine nights accommodation in double occupancy with breakfast and dinner
Ten days sightseeing in a modern air-conditioned private bus
English Speaking government-licensed Christian Guide.
All entrance fees to places of interest
Special dinner at oriental restaurant with folklore show
Lunches
Mass daily
Complete travel portfolio (confirmations, backpack, name badge, luggage tag, power adaptor)
The package price does not include the following:
Tips for Guide, Driver, and hotels.
Personal expenses
soft drinks
Travel Insurance
Anything not mentioned above
12 Days Greece & Greek Islands from Denver, CO - April 29 - May 10, 2024 - Monsignor Robert Jaeger
12 Days Greece & Greek Islands
Day 1 – DEPARTURE TO GREECE
Depart for your overnight flight to Greece, meals served on board.
Day 2 – ARIVAL THESSALONIKI
Arrive in Thessaloniki where you will be met outside baggage claim and escorted to your vehicle for a transfer to the hotel. Later this afternoon, meet your guide for a short Orientation Tour. Enjoy a welcome dinner with fellow travelers this evening. Overnight at hotel Kapsis (or similar)
Day 3 – THESSALONIKI
Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest city with a population of some 1 million and a vital cultural, industrial, and commercial city, lies amphitheatrically on the Thermaicos Gulf, on the slopes of Mount Chortiatis. Founded by the Greek Macedonian King Kassander, he named the city Thessaloniki after his wife who was also the half-sister of Alexander the Great. During the Roman period, it was the capital of Macedonia Secunda and during the Middle Ages, it was the second city of the Byzantine Empire. For 400 years it was occupied by the Ottoman Empire until it was finally freed in 1912.
We start our excursion of the city viewing the White Tower, a historical landmark before continuing on to visit the Archaeological Museum which houses interesting finds from the Archaic, Classical, and Roman periods, with findings of the Sindos area and a stunning exhibition of golden jewels. Stop for a typical Greek lunch. From here, drive by the International Trade Fair grounds and the Aristotelion University, which was established in 1926 and today is the largest of all universities in Greece. Next, make your way up to the once upon time, Acropolis, located in the upper part of the city. It is here, that you will have a superb panoramic view of the entire city with the Thermaic Gulf and Mount Olympus in the background.
Further visit to St. Demetrios Basilica which was erected in the 5th century AD. The five-aisled basilica suffered a tragic fire in the year 1917 but was later restored in 1948. Marvel at the beautiful mosaics, dating back from the 5th to 9th Centuries. From here, follow your guide to the area located under the basilica, where you will see the famous crypt, which according to tradition, was once the confinement for an officer by the name of Demetrius who was later executed by Emperor Gallerius. Today, St. Demetrius is the patron Saint of the city.
Return to your motor coach and drive along the modern street, Egnatia, named after the famous Roman road, Via Egnatia. While driving, view the Arch of Gallerius and St. George’s Rotonda. The tour will end by passing by the well-preserved Byzantine Basilica of St. Sophia, an 8th Century structure, rich in mosaics and frescoes. Overnight hotel Kapsis or similar.
Day 4 – THESSALONIKI – KAVAL – PHILIPPI – THESSALONIKI
Kavala, the ancient site of Neapolis, founded in the 7th Century BC, is the very same place where St. Paul set foot on the European Continent during his second missionary journey, establishing a thriving Christian church in the nearby city of Philippi. The famous Egnatian road, which once ran from the Adriatic Sea to Constantinople, passed by this city.
On the way to Philippi, you will have the opportunity to view the St. Sylas Monastery named after one of St. Paul’s companions. Arrive at the famous city of Philippi, one of the most interesting biblical and historical ancient cities. The city once known as Krinides was renamed “Philippi” after King Philip II, father of Alexander the Great. It is this place where Brutus and Cassius were defeated by Mark Antony and Junavian Augustus, granting the City of Philippi a great many privileges. From here, drive a short distance to the Baptistery and the River, where Lydia, the first European convert was baptized by St. Paul.
Return to the archaeological site for a guided tour through the excavations, marveling at the upper and lower parts as well as the Forum, the Walls, the two Basilicas, and the Theatre. Your guide will also point out the traditional prison, which once held St. Paul and St. Silas.
After lunch at Philippi Site, we will do a short orientation tour of Kavala (Ancient Neapolis) and then drive back to Thessaloniki. Overnight hotel Kapsis or similar.
Day 5 – THESSALONIKI – PELLA – KALAMBAKA
Your tour starts with a 45-minute drive to Pella birthplace of Alexander the Great, where you will explore the site on foot.
Pella was the second capital of ancient Macedonia, founded by king Archelaos who had built the magnificent palace, its walls being decorated by the famous painter Zeuxis and made it into the seat of the Royal Family. Being situated at the riverside of Ludias, which was once navigable, was developed into an important port. Euripides was at Pella to see his plays produced and performed there and Aristotle was appointed to educate young Alexander. We start our visits here first with the Archaeological Museum. Being small but very important, due to its rich collection of clay figurines, the classical black and red-figured vases, the pebble floor mosaics, and the fine reconstruction of the interior architectural part of the Greek house with its stucco decoration. We start visiting the excavations with the huge Greek houses bearing the central courtyards and being surrounded by big rooms, walk along the streets facing the shops of the big market, and admire the still existing floor mosaics.
Continue to visit the Royal Tombs of Vergina (Land of Alexander the Great) we will have lunch at Elia Restaurant in Veria, overlooking the valley Aliakmon. The tour includes a visit to the newly completed exhibition bearing the funds of all 3 Tombs, one of them famous as the Tomb of King Philip the II, Father of Alexander the Great. Make your way inside the subterranean structure, accompanied by your guide, and feast your eyes on some of the most important objects, which once belonged to Philip II – the King’s shield adorned with ivory and gold the King’s gold-trimmed iron breastplate, Gold Diadems of unparalleled craftsmanship, the Golden Wreath of oak leaves, the gold plated collar and the Silver Burial Ums. Listen carefully, as your guide explains how inside the tomb of King Philip, a Golden Chest was discovered, containing the King’s bones, washed with wine and wrapped in purple cloth. After a short coffee break, we will drive toward the town of Kalambaka. Overnight at
Day 6 – KALAMBAKA – METEORA – ATHENS
Today we will visit the monasteries of Meteora. One of the most remarkable sites in Greece: a group of monasteries perched atop pinnacles of rock up to 600 meters high. A rare geological phenomenon, a quirk of nature as it were, created these looming rocks which thrust skywards from the plain of Thessaly as if striving to come closer to God. These peculiarly impressive natural sculptures are known as Meteora because they do indeed seem to hang or hover (meteoro in Greek) above the plain. Their summits totally isolated from the rest of the world were a refuge for many hermits from as early as the 11th century. Three hundred years later the first monasteries were founded. Access to the monasteries and settlements was made by ladder and rope.
Once we arrive at the monasteries you will admire the brickwork of Byzantine workmanship. The Churches house spectacular frescoes, ivory carvings, manuscripts, and the fine work of art previously supported by the Emperors at the time. Included in the tour is the visit to two monasteries, Grand Meteora or Varlaam Monasteries (depending on the day of the week) as well as the Monastery of Agios Stefanos (Nuns). *You are kindly requested to observe the strict clothing restrictions of the monasteries i.e. long skirts and covered shoulders for the ladies, and long trousers for men otherwise entrance will be denied*
After lunch, we will start our drive toward Athens. Overnight at hotel Stanley or similar.
Day 7 – ATHENS
On a tour to Athens, you will view many significant historical and archaeological monuments that date back to the Golden Age of Pericles, in the 5th century BC. During that time, the wealthy, newly democratic, and invigorated city-state decided to rebuild the Temples on top of the Acropolis in great splendor. Visit the Parthenon, dedicated to the Goddess Athena, a unique masterpiece of Greek Architecture. This monument is recognized as the culmination of Greek architecture and sculpture. Examine the Propylea , which blends Doric and Ionic building principles. Continue to the Temple of the Athena Nike (Wingless Victory) and the Erechtheum Temple, which was formerly used for cult worship and consists of three basic parts: the main Temple, the north extension, and the famous Porch of Maidens. Then you will enjoy a traditional lunch in a restaurant in the center of Athens. After lunch, you will have the chance to explore the new Acropolis Museum located across the hill of the Acropolis serving as a reminder to all visitors of the true greatness of 5th century Athens. Among its many important exhibits are the Caryatids (female sculptures acting as columns of the Erechtheion Temple), the Parthenon Gallery with the inner frieze, outer metopes, and pediments of the temple, and the statue of Artemis by Praxitelis. Next, view Mars Hill, where St. Paul preached Christianity. You will also be seeing the Ancient Agora, Tower of the Winds, Herodes Atticus Theater, Theater of Dionyssos, Temple of Zeus, see the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and the former Royal Palace which is now the House of Parliament. Continue to the University of Athens, the Academy of Athens, the National Library, and then to the “Panathenian” Olympic Stadium where the first modern Olympic Games were held in 1896. Overnight hotel Stanley or similar.
Day 8 – ATEHNS – CORINTH
Corinth (Argolis) Journey outside Athens to walk among the ancients in Corinth, a once rich and powerful city known for luxury and vice, and see the incredible Corinth Canal, which cut through miles of solid rock. Follow the sacred way which led to Eleusis, known in antiquity for its sanctuary of Demeter, whose legendary search for her daughter Persephone explained to the ancients the cause of the seasons. A modern highway takes you past olive fields and numerous small villages, including Megara, whose inhabitants colonized in Asia Minor under the leadership of Byzas and founded the city of Byzantium - which later gave its name to the Byzantine Empire. Driving along the coast leads to the majestic Corinth Canal, an engineering triumph century in the making. Nero, Rome's most infamous emperor, inaugurated one attempt in 67 AD with his golden spade, but it was the Greeks who finally conquered the steep rock in 1893. Prior to the canal, ships were dragged from the Ionian Sea to the Aegean Sea using a wooden road with special grooves greased with wax. Traces of the road can still be seen. Continue on to Ancient Corinth, a city blessed with a superb location, fertile plains, and a virtually impregnable refuge. Excavations reveal that the ancient city was huge and wealthy; a survivor of numerous invasions but devastated by earthquakes. See the Bema, where St. Paul was tried by the Roman Governor, and one of Corinth's most striking ancient buildings - the Temple of Apollo, seven of whose original 38 columns still stand. Walk through the remains of Market Place, a colonnaded square once surrounded by many small shops. See the celebrated Fountain of Priene, which has produced water from the earliest times, and Lechaion Road, formerly the main thoroughfare to the port of Lecaion. You will also be visiting the museum of Corinth. Overnight hotel Stanley or similar.
Day 9– Depart
Cruise Excursion:
Day 9 – Athens - Mykonos –free afternoon
Celebrate Mass at the Church of St. Paul in Piraeus. Transfer to Piraeus Harbor for 11 am boarding. Late afternoon, arrive at the beautiful island of Mykonos. Overnight sail to Kusadasi.
Day 10 - Kusadasi (excursion to Ephesus)/Patmos (excursion to Cave of St. John where he wrote the Apocalypse)
Arrive at Kusadasi, continue by coach to Ephesus, and explore the ruins of the ancient city. Celebrate Mass at Panaya Kapula (the House of the Virgin Mary) in Ephesus. Afternoon visits the island of Patmos and overnight sail to Rhodes.
Day 11 - Heraklion - free morning/Santorini
Arrive at Heraklion, and continue by coach to Knossos, the largest Bronze Age archaeological site, considered Europe's oldest city. Celebrate Mass on board. Enjoy the afternoon on the stunning island of Santorini, and the village of Fira perched high above the sea with a spectacular view.
Day 12 – Athens - Departure
Return to Athens around 06:00 am, disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport. (Breakfast on board)
DOWNLOAD BROCHURE AND APPLICATION
Trip Date: April 29 - May 10, 2024
Departure City: Denver, CO (other cities available)
Package Price: $4690.00
The package price includes the following:
Round-trip airline tickets
Three overnights in Thessaloniki (hotel Kapsis or similar)including breakfast daily
One overnight in Kalambaka (hotel Amalia or similar) including breakfast daily
Three overnights in Athens (hotel Stanley or similar) including breakfast daily
4-day cruise extension
Air-conditioned motor coach throughout all tours and transfers
Services of English-speaking professional, licensed guide for all sites and museums as per itinerary
Six lunches during tours include one soft drink or glass of wine per person
Welcome dinner in Thessaloniki includes house wine
Transfers from and to airports
Entrance fees as per itinerary
Road tolls and all applicable taxes
Guide and driver accommodation and meals
The package price does not include the following:
Tips to guide, driver, restaurants
Drinks during meals (except those specifically mentioned above)
Personal expenses of guests (telephones, laundry, room service, etc)
Anything not specifically mentioned in the included section
13 Day Catholic Pilgrimage: Shrines and Abbeys of Ireland
13 Day Catholic Pilgrimage:
Shrines and Abbeys of Ireland
April 15 -27, 2024 with Father John Stearns
DAY 1: Monday 15th April 2024 – DEPARTURE
Depart the USA for your overnight flight to Dublin. Meals will be served on board.
DAY 2: Tuesday 16th April 2024 – WELCOME TO IRELAND
Arrive at Dublin Airport. Meet with your English-speaking guide and driver and transfer to Belfast city center.
Enjoy a panoramic city tour. A guided city tour is an excellent way to discover Belfast City. The tour will take in the leaning Albert Memorial Clock Tower (Ireland's answer to the Tower of Pisa) and the Opera House, which is one of Belfast’s great landmarks. Your tour will pass by the City Hall, the Opera House, The Crown Bar (dates from 1885), Queens University, and the Botanic Gardens. Some tours will take in a visit to the Harland and Wolfe Shipyard, where the Titanic was built and launched in 1912. A visit to the Shankill and Falls road will be of interest as it will give the visitor an indication of how life was in Belfast during the troubles..
Then visit Titanic Belfast.
Located in the heart of Belfast, the Titanic Belfast recreates the story of the world’s most famous ship in an iconic, six-floor building right beside the historic site of the original ship’s construction. Opened in April 2012 to coincide with the centenary of its launch, the self-guided journey begins on entering the building's giant atrium, where the visitor is surrounded by the four ‘ship’s hull’ shaped wings which house the Titanic Experience. As you journey through the nine large galleries of the interactive exhibition, you will uncover the true story of the Titanic, from her conception in Belfast in the early 1900's, through her construction and launch, to her famous maiden voyage and subsequent place in history.
Celebrate Mass. Overnight, dinner, bed, and breakfast at your hotel in Belfast or area.
DAY 3: Wednesday 17th April 2024 – BELFAST
This morning visit St. Patricks Catholic Cathedral Armagh and celebrate mass.
St. Patrick’s Roman Catholic Cathedral is an imposing site, perched on the hilltop in Armagh and dominating its skyline. The church was begun in 1840, but because of the intervening famine years, not completed until 1873. The cathedral was designed and built in Neo-Gothic style from pale limestone, with large twin spires dominating the approach up flight after flight of steps. Sculptured statuary forms a unique arch over the main entrance. The sanctuary was modernized in 1981 and has a very distinctive tabernacle holder and crucifix, which appear out of place with the mosaics and statues in the rest of the church. There is a rich Austrian oak woodwork and an Irish granite altar. The painted ceiling is ornate. The walls are painted with rich colours that blend easily with the stained glass windows. Armagh is the ecclesiastical capital of Ireland.
After visit Saint Patrick Centre.
St Patrick is known worldwide as the patron saint of Ireland and that he is celebrated on the 17th March every year. Now discover the story of St Patrick and his place in Ireland’s history at the St Patrick Centre, located beside Down Cathedral and St Patricks Grave in the Medieval heart of Downpatrick. As the main destination on the Saint Patrick Driving Trail which runs from Armagh to Bangor, the centre welcomes the casual leisure traveller, student groups on educational trips and those with a knowledge of St Patrick that want to explore more detail about his background. It features an interpretative exhibition which tells the fascinating story of Ireland's Patron Saint. The visit begins with the impressive 'In the Footsteps of Saint Patrick' Imax presentation about the life of St Patrick and has aerial video footage of some of the landmark sites in Ireland associated with the Saint.
Later visit Down Cathedral in Downpatrick.
Down Cathedral overlooking Downpatrick, stands close to what is believed to be the mortal remains of Patrick, the Patron saint of Ireland. Visitor can access the cathedral via gardens at the back of the St Patricks Centre or through English street from the town centre. The Cathedral is impressive inside and has a wonderful organ and a very interesting seating arrangement. A retail area is housed at the entrance of the Cathedral. It is generally accepted that the main walls of the Cathedral date from the years after 1220. It suffered destruction on numerous occasions including during the wars with Edward Bruce in 1316 and finally, on the suppression of the monasteries in 1541, the Cathedral was laid waste. Notwithstanding its ruinous state which lasted until 1790, King James I granted a Charter to the Cathedral in 1609, providing for a Dean and Chapter. Rather than lose the connection with Patrick, the name began to be used for the growing town, which assumed the name Downpatrick. Rebuilding of the Cathedral began in 1790, it was consecrated in 1818 and the tower was completed in 1829.The Cathedral was closed again for repairs and renovations in 1986/7. Attacks of rot were so extensive that the Cathedral Board, acting on professional advice decided to remove almost the entire interior plaster walls and vaulting. What the visitor sees now is an almost entirely new interior, a replica of that which it replaced. The cost of this was upwards of £750,000 which was all raised voluntarily. Overnight, dinner, bed and breakfast at your hotel in Belfast or area.
DAY 4: Thursday 18th April 2024 – BELFAST TO DONEGAL
This morning depart Belfast and journey to Donegal. En-route visit Corrymeela and enjoy storytelling with tea/coffee. Then visit Giants Causeway.
Encounter Northern Ireland’s favorite giant Finn McCool at the new Giants Causeway Visitor Centre on the North Antrim coast which opened in the summer of 2012. According to legend Finn McCool created the Giants Causeway by building stepping stones to Scotland to challenge the Scottish giant Benandonner! The new Visitor Center explores the major themes of mythology, geology, landscape, ecology, culture, and social history based on the UNESCO World Heritage site that consists of 40,000 basalt polygonal columns formed 60 million years ago after a volcanic eruption. There are various interactive exhibits and short video presentations within five designated interpretive exhibition areas and the self-guided visit will culminate with a spectacular two minutes audio-visual projection of a volcanic eruption flowing over the walls and onto the floor. Other services and facilities include a large craft and souvenir shop, Tourist Information, and a restaurant. To enhance the wider visitor experience around the site, a handheld audio guide is available in a range of languages which will bring the wider World Heritage Site to life and inform visitors of unique features to look out for across this amazing landscape. Guided tours of the site are also available. The walks and trails around the World Heritage Site have been upgraded, with the addition of a new accessible clifftop walk for families and people with disabilities. In 2015, Conde Nast Traveler magazine included hopping the stones of the Giant's Causewayas one of the '50 things to do in Europe before you die’. Celebrate Mass. Overnight, dinner, bed, and breakfast at your hotel in Donegal or the area.
DAY 5: Friday 19th April 2024 – DONEGAL TO COUNTY MAYO
This morning's journey from Donegal to County Mayo. On the way visit Drumcliffe Cemetery.
After visiting Knock Shrine and celebrating mass.
Knock Shrine, located in Co. Mayo is Ireland's National Marian Shrine which over 1.5 million pilgrims visit each year. The Pilgrimage Season at Knock runs from April to October each year with daily Masses and Confessions, Anointing of the Sick and Stations of the Cross. Groups are always welcome and can avail of guided tours, private Mass and a visit to the award-winning Knock Museum.
Later visit Ballintubber Abbey.
Built-in 1216 for the Canon Regulars of St Augustine, Ballintubber Abbey is the only church in Ireland that was founded by an Irish King and which is still in use today. It was built next to the site of an earlier church founded by St Patrick in the 5th century. It is also known as "the Abbey that refused to die" as through its many vicissitudes, including burning by Cromwell's army in 1653, the Abbey has remained a place of worship despite years of continuous attacks and religious repression. Ballintubber retains an air of ancient beauty and spirituality and has been restored with simple elegance. Ballintubber is one of the most impressive church buildings in Ireland today. There is a video display and an interpretative center at the Abbey and the grounds are landscaped to portray spiritual themes.
Overnight, dinner, bed, and breakfast at your hotel in County Mayo or the area.
DAY 6: Saturday 20th April 2024 – COUNTY MAYO TO GALWAY
This morning depart County Mayo and journey to Galway. En-route stop at Croagh Patrick for photos. Travel through Connemara.
Visit Kylemore Abbey and celebrate mass.
Kylemore Abbey is stunningly located in the Kylemore Pass in Connemara. Mitchell Henry built the House in 1868, after having spent his honeymoon in the area. The architecture is best described as neo-gothic and the house still displays all the characteristics of that period. One of Kylemore Abbey's most famous features is its miniature cathedral, built in 1870 and known locally as the Gothic church. Today, the abbey is home to the Irish order of Benedictine nuns. They established a private school for young girls, which was the renowned Kylemore Abbey International School. The school eventually closed in 2010. Facilities at Kylemore include a visitor centre, an exhibition housed in the main reception rooms of the house and a video which takes the visitor through the history of the house and its occupants. The Gothic church is available to visit and as a venue for choir groups to sing in. If time allows guests can also visit the Kylemore Abbey Victorian Walled Garden was laid out in 1867 and took three years to complete. A bus service provided from the front door of the Abbey directly to the garden and is the only permitted means of access.
Overnight, dinner, bed and breakfast at your hotel in Galway or area.
DAY 7: Sunday 21st April 2024 – GALWAY TO KERRY
This morning journey from Galway to Kerry. En-route visit Cliffs of Moher.
Situated on the Atlantic Ocean and bordering the Burren region, the Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland's most spectacular sights. Standing 230 metres above the ground at their highest point and 8km long, the Cliffs boast one of the most amazing views in Ireland. On a clear day, the Aran Islands are visible in Galway Bay as well as the valleys and hills of Connemara. The cliffs reach their highest point just north of O' Brien's Tower built by Cornelius O’ Brien, a descendant of Brian Boru, to entertain his lady friends. A visit of the tower is also possible. The sweeping view across the Atlantic has recently been ranked the best 'cliff-view' on the planet by Conde Nast Traveler. The respected travel publication has voted the world-famouslandmark at the top of a new chart of ' Nine Gorgeous Cliff Views That Rival The Grand Canyon'.
Then cruise across Shannon river.
The main tourist routes of the West of Ireland's Shannon Region are linked via the Killimer-Tarbert car ferry. This pleasant, 20 minute journey travels across the Shannon Estuary which is almost 100km in length and 13km wide at its widest point. Ecologically, the Shannon estuary has a unique value with a group of bottle nosed dolphins resident in the estuary. As well as this, the estuary is an important habitat for migrating birds and wild fowl. The ferry can take car and coach vehicles. The ferry trip will save 85 miles (137 km) from ferry terminal to ferry terminal providing a staging point for the many attractions of Clare, Kerry and adjoining counties. Celebrate Mass. Overnight, dinner, bed and breakfast at your hotel in Kerry or area.
DAY 8: Monday 22nd April 2024 – KERRY
Today travel across Ring of Kerry. The Ring of Kerry (166km) is the most famous and panoramic route in Ireland. The astonishing beauty of this large peninsula, Iveragh, comes from the great diversity of its scenery, which offers incessant contrasts. En route around the Ring, take in spectacular scenery - mountains, peat bogs, lakes and magnificent views of the Atlantic Ocean as one travels along the coast road. Leaving Killarney pass through Killorglin, famous for its Puck Fair, then to Glenbeigh where the cliff road affords panoramic views of the Dingle Peninsula and Dingle Bay. Continuing to Cahirciveen, you’ll pass the birthplace of our National hero, Daniel O’Connell. Next, continue on through peat bogs to the town of Waterville. Continue to Sneem Village, famous for its brightly coloured houses. The road then continues through the mountains to Molls Gap and Ladies View with superb views of the famous Lakes of Killarney. Molls’ Gap is a spectacular photographic viewing point on the famous Ring of Kerry Tour. The visitor is presented with a magnificent view of Black Valley. Close by is the famous Ladies View viewing point with gives a different perspective of this magnificent countryside, with the 3 Lakes of Killarney all surrounded by the Kerry Mountains. Ladies View received its name from Queen Victoria, who was so impressed with the view that she insisted that her ladies-in-waiting should also visit here. Celebrate Mass. This evening enjoy dinner and entertainment at Kate Kearney’s Cottage or similar. Evening transfer back to hotel. Overnight, bed and breakfast at your hotel in Kerry or area.
DAY 9: Tuesday 23rd April 2024 – KERRY TO CORK
This morning depart Kerry and travel to Cork. On the way visit Blarney Castle.
Attracting visitors from all over the world, Blarney Castle is situated in Blarney village, 8 km from Cork city. An ancient stronghold of the McCarthy's, Lords of Muskerry, it is one of Ireland's oldest and most historic castles, and one of the strongest fortresses in Munster. Built in 1446, Blarney Castle is famous for its Blarney stone, the Stone of Eloquence, which is traditionally believed to have the power to bestow the gift of eloquence on all those who kiss it. Many legends tell the story of the Stone, but why not kiss it and find out the truth behind the legend. The Castle gardens covering 60 acres of land are under constant change and over the past few years, a water garden, fern garden and poison garden have been developed and are all open to visitors Celebrate Mass.
Then visit Jamesons Midleton Distillery.
Whiskey has been distilled in the town of Midleton, County Cork since the early 9th Century. The Jameson Distillery Midleton was founded by the Murphy brothers in 1825. The 45 minute guided tour of the distillery commences with a short audio-visual, after which visitors are taken on a tour of the old distillery by local guides. Follow the old distillery trail through mills, maltings, stillhouse, warehouses and kilns and view the largest pot still in the world - some of these buildings date back to 1795. The tour ends in the Distillery pub, where all are invited to enjoy a glass of Irish Whiskey. During the visit a number of volunteers are selected to take part in a tasting session to compare a Jameson whiskey with a Scottish Whisky and American bourbon. Participants will receive a diploma for their achievement! It is possible for the whole group to participate in the whiskey comparison tasting. The visitor attraction has a Malt House Restaurant and a shop where guests can buy a range of whiskeys and souvenirs.
Overnight, dinner, bed and breakfast at your hotel in Cork or area.
DAY 10: Wednesday 24th April 2024 – CORK TO WATERFORD
This morning journey from Cork to Waterford. En-route visit Rock of Cashel.
Possibly the most photographed site in Ireland, the Rock of Cashel towers over the town of Cashel from its perch on a 200-foot high outcrop of limestone. Once the seat of the Kings of Munster. St. Patrick visited the rock in 450 AD, while Brian Boru was crowned the first high King of Ireland here in the tenth century. Granted to the church in the twelfth century, by the O'Brien clan, today the impressive stone walls enclose a round tower, a cathedral, a twelfth century Romanesque chapel and high crosses. The Vicars Choral has been recently restored and its basement houses a small museum of artefacts found on the site. One of the leading visitor attractions in Ireland, in 2011 it was visited by Queen Elizabeth II on her historic first visit to the Republic of Ireland.
Next, proceed to visit Waterford Crystal.
The Waterford Crystal visitor centre has moved in 2010 to a magnificent new home in the heart of Waterford City. A unique highlight of a visit is the factory tour which gives an up close insight into the centuries-old tradition of Waterford Crystal making. Feel the heat of the furnace and marvel at the skills of the craftsmen. The factory tour includes the following traditional production areas; wooden mould making, crystal blowing and furnace, crystal cutting and quality inspection and finishing. After the tour visitors can browse the world’s most famous crystal in a lavish retail store, which houses the largest collection of Waterford Crystal found anywhere in the world. The centre includes the retail store, exhibition and crystal installation areas, coffee shop and worldwide shipping facility. Celebrate Mass.
Overnight, dinner, bed and breakfast at your hotel in Waterford or area.
DAY 11: Thursday 25th April 2024 – WATERFORD TO DUBLIN
This morning journey from Waterford to Dublin. On arrival enjoy a panoramic city tour.
Enjoy a panoramic tour of Dublin City. Here you will discover the north and south side of the River Liffey. This area offers great striking monuments such as the GPO (General Post Office) on the city main thoroughfare, O'Connell Street, or the Custom House along the quays, as well as the Phoenix Park, the largest public park in Europe. The south side appears more sophisticated with its vast Georgian squares, such as Merrion Square, where Oscar Wilde’s House can still be found (today owned by an American College), its colourful doors, along with Grafton Street and its quality shops. Not so far from St. Stephen’s Green, in Kildare St., you will see the house of Bram Stoker, the author of Dracula. This part of the city is also dominated by the students of Trinity College, where the famous book of Kells is permanently exhibited in its library. The university is facing the medieval district where Dublin Castle and the two Anglican Cathedrals can be found.
Then visit Trinity College and the Book of Kells.
Trinity was founded in 1592 by Queen Elizabeth 1st on grounds confiscated from an Augustinian priory and is the oldest university in Ireland. The Campanile, erected in 1852, was built on what is believed to be the centre of the monastery. Built to further the education of the ruling Anglo-Irish families, restrictions were imposed to prevent Catholic from attending courses. These restrictions were not fully lifted until the 1970’s. Trinity however admitted women in 1902, earlier than most British universities. Most of the main buildings off the main square were built during the Georgian period, some of which replaced older buildings. Within its walls, visitors will be able to admire Parliament Square and its 18th Century edifices. Overnight, dinner, bed and breakfast at your hotel in Dublin or area.
DAY 12: Friday 26th April 2024 – DUBLIN
Today visit Whitefriar Carmelite Church and celebrate mass. Then visit the Guinness Storehouse
The Guinness Brewery in Dublin is Europe's largest stout producing brewery and home to the Guinness Storehouse. Opened in 1904, the Storehouse was an operational plant for fermenting and storing Guinness. Today it houses a very fine exhibition dedicated to the Guinness story. Visitors will discover what goes into the making a pint of Guinness - the ingredients, the brewing process, the time, the craft and the passion. The exhibition shows how the brew has been marketed and how it is today sold in over 150 countries. Once the tour has finished, the guest is invited to the Gravity Bar to enjoy their pint of Guinness. Regular demonstrations on the art of pulling a pint of Guinness also take place in the Storehouse. Launched on the fifth floor in 2011, “Five” at Guinness Storehouse, includes a small replica authentic Irish Bar, an 18th Century inspired Brewers Dining Hall, and a restaurant named Gilroy’s where guests enjoy a Guinness gastronomical experience driven entirely by the Irish tradition of wholesome local produce. Menus include local foods such as Ardsallagh goat’s cheese, Irish mussels from Carlingford and the Waterford Blaas bread supplied by MD Bakery in Waterford. This area will host from time to time live cooking demonstrations using Guinness in the recipe and it includes an interactive recipe sharing bank that allows visitors to take Guinness recipe cards home. Overnight, dinner, bed and breakfast at your hotel in Dublin or area
DAY 13: Saturday 27th May 2023 – FAREWELL
Transfer to Dublin Airport for you flight home.
DOWNLOAD BROCHURE AND APPLICATION
Trip date: April 15 -27, 2024
Package Price: $5490.00 From Denver, CO
Single supplement: $990.00 (Private Room)
The package price includes the following:
Round-trip airline tickets
All taxes, fees, and surcharges
Hotels on Half board Basis: 11 nights (open buffet breakfast, open buffet dinner)
Air-conditioned bus
Farewell dinner
English speaking guide
Entrance fees
Meeting and assistance at Arrival/Departure
Porterage is Included in all hotels.
Whispers devise during the whole trip
Mass Daily
Porterage at airport
Breakfast, and dinner daily
Wine and mineral water with dinner
Tour escort throughout the pilgrimage
The package price includes the following:
Lunches
Beverages with meals
Tips for tour escorts, guides and driver
Travel Insurance
Personal expenses
11 Days In the footsteps of Jesus - The Holy Land from Denver, CO (DEN) - April 22 - May 02, 2024 - Fr. Heriberto Torres Velazquez, C.R.
11 Days In the footsteps of Jesus - The Holy Land from Denver, CO (DEN)
- April 22 - May 02, 2024
- Fr. Heriberto Torres Velazquez, C.R.
Day 1: Monday, April 22nd, 2024. Departure from USA
Depart for your overnight flights to the Holy Land.
Day 2: Tuesday, April 23rd, 2024. Arrive Tel Aviv, Transfer to Tiberius.
Arrive in Tel Avi
Meet your guide and transfer to Tiberius.
Dinner and overnight at a hotel in Tiberius.
Day 3: Wednesday, April 24th, 2024. Nazareth, Mount Tabor, Cana
Mass -Cana - Church
Cana of Galilee.
Nazareth, visiting the Basilica of the Annunciation. St. Joseph’s Church, and Mary’s well.
Mount Tabor.
Dinner and overnight at a hotel in Tiberius.
Day 4: Thursday, April 25th, 2024. Banias, Sea of Galilee
Mass - Capernaum.
The Mount of Beatitudes for a time of prayer and reflection.
Caesarea Philippi.
St. Peter’s Primacy.
Tabaha, site of the multiplication of the fishes and the loaves.
Enjoy a meal of “St. Peter’s fish” and boat ride on the Sea of Galilee.
Dinner and overnight at a hotel in Tiberius.
Day 5: Friday, April 26th, 2024, Mount Carmel, Coastal Plains.
Mass - Stella Marris
Mount Carmel. Stella Marris, Haifa.
Caesarea Maritime.
Depart to Jerusalem via Coastal Plains.
Dinner and overnight at hotel in Bethlehem.
Day 6: Saturday, April 27th, 2024. Bethlehem, Shepherd’s field.
Mass -Bethlehem – Basilica -
Shepherd’s Field in Beit Sahour.
The Church of the Nativity.
Catherine church, the Grotto of St. Jerome, Milk Grotto.
Old city of Bethlehem.
Dinner and overnight at hotel in Bethlehem.
Day 7: Sunday, April 28th, 2024. Dead Sea, Jericho, Bethany
Mass – Bethany.
Bethany, Lazarus tomb.
Qumran, site of the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls.
Visit Jericho, Zacchaeus tree old city and view mount of Temptation.
Dinner and overnight at hotel in Bethlehem.
Day 8: Monday, April 29th, 2024.
Mount of Olives, Mount Zion.
Mass – Jerusalem.
Panoramic view from the top of Mount Olives.
Ascension Hill on the Mount of Olives.
The Church of Pater Noster.
The Church of Dominus Flevit.
The Garden of Gethsemane and the Church of All Nations.
Zion and the Cenacle (Upper Room).
Dinner and overnight at hotel in Bethlehem.
Day 9: Tuesday, April 30th, 2024.
Via Dolorosa, Holy Sepulcher
Mass - Jerusalem
The Western Wall.
Anne’s Church, the Pools of Bethesda.
Walk the Via Dolorosa ending at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher.
Free Time in the Old City of Jerusalem.
Dinner and overnight at hotel in Bethlehem.
Day 10: Wednesday, May 1st, 2024. Ein Karem, Emmaus.
Mass – Ein Karem
Visit Ein Karem.
Shrine of the Book, the model of old Jerusalem
Dinner and overnight at hotel in Bethlehem.
Day 11: Thursdays, April 2nd, 2024. Departure
Depart for airport.
DOWNLOAD BROCHURE AND APPLICATION
Trip Date: April 22 - May 02, 2024
Departure City: Denver, CO (other cities available)
Package Price: $4190.00
The package price includes the following:
Round trip from Denver.
Meet & Assist at Ben Gurion Airport upon arrival and departure.
Three nights’ accommodation in Galilee in double occupancy with breakfast & dinner.
Six-night accommodation in Bethlehem in double occupancy with breakfast & dinner.
Ten days sightseeing in a modern air-conditioned private bus.
English-speaking government licensed Christian guide on duty.
Entrance fees to places of interest whilst on tour in the Holy Land.
Special dinner at an oriental restaurant.
The package price does not include the following:
Tips for Guide, Driver, and hotels.
Lunches
Drinks at hotels and restaurants
All Personal Expenses.
Insurance.
13 Days Fatima - Lourdes - Santiago - Barcelona from Denver, CO (DEN) April 22 - May 03, 2024 - Father Edmundo Valera
13 Days Fatima - Lourdes - Santiago - Barcelona from Denver, CO (DEN) April 22 - May 03, 2024 - Father Edmundo Valera
Day 1: USA - LISBON.
Depart for our overnight flight to Lisbon, Portugal. We are served dinner and breakfast aloft.
Day 2: LISBON- SANTAREM - FATIMA.
Upon arrival, visit various holy sites in Lisbon: St. Jerome Monastery, Tower of Belem, Christ of Lisbon, Alfama Quarters, Cathedral, Saint Anthony’s birthplace, and Rossio square. At the end of the visits Depart to Santarem (Venerate the Eucharistic Miracle). Arrive in Fatima for the Rosary. Dinner and Candlelight Procession. (D)
Day 3: FATIMA
After Breakfast. Visit of Adjustrel and Os Valinhos birthplaces of Francisco, Jacinta, and Lucia to whom the Virgin appeared for the first time on May 13th, 1917. Via Crucis in Os Valinhos, up to Loca do Cabeco, place of the 4th appearance of Our Lady. This afternoon is dedicated to visiting the Basilica and Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima. Visit of The Museum of the Shrine where is conserved the crown with the bullet that wounded John Paul II. In the evening we join the Rosary and candlelight procession. Dinner and overnight at our hotel. (B,L,D)
Day 4: FATIMA-COIMBRA-BRAGA-SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA
After Breakfast, we transfer to Oporto. Stop to Coimbra to visit the monastery of St Teresa where sister Lucia Lived. Arrival in Braga and visit of the sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte. Lunch. In the afternoon transfer to Santiago de Compostela with a stop in Valenca do Minho and Tui, to admire the magnificent Cathedral. Arrival in Santiago de Compostela, dinner, and overnight. (B,D)
Day 5: SANTIAGO DE COMPOSTELA
Breakfast in the Hotel. Morning city walking tour, visiting the Cathedral with the Tomb of St. James the Apostle, the Museum, and the Church of Santa Maria del Sar. Holy Mass at 12 with the Botafumeiro (giant thurible/incense burner). Lunch. In the afternoon excursion to Cabo Finisterre, Passing through the amazing town of Carnota and Muros. Visit the church of Finisterre and the Sanctuary of the Virgin de La Barca. Return to Santiago for dinner and overnight (B,D)
Day 6: THE SANTIAGO’S CAMINO
Breakfast in the Hotel. Today we will run by bus for part of the overworld famous Camino (walk) to Santiago the Compostela. We will stop in Samos, a wonderful town in the mountains where we will visit the Benedictine Monastery. We will proceed to Leon where we will visit the magnificent Cathedral. Time for lunch. Departure to Silos where we will arrive in the evening. Vesper at Silos Monastery. Dinner and overnight hotel. (B,L,D)
Day 7: SILOS/BURGOS/LOYOLA/SAN SEBASTIAN/LOURDES
After breakfast transfer to Lourdes. During this long trip, we will stop in Burgos to admire the Cathedral, to Loyola to have Mass at the Monastery of St Ignatius, and in San Sebastian for time for Lunch. Arrival in Lourdes in the evening. Dinner and overnight Lourdes. (B,D)
Day 8: LOURDES.
After breakfast, we begin with a visit to the Grotto. Concelebrated Mass at the Grotto. Our walking tour takes us to Boly Mill (the birthplace of St. Bernadette), the Cachot (the former jail, where she lived during the apparitions), and the local parish church. Rosary and candlelight procession. Dinner and overnight. (B,L,D)
Day 9: LOURDES
Breakfast in the Hotel. Mass and free time for personal devotions to Our Lady of Lourdes including, for those who wish, the legendary, healing waters of the miraculous Lourdes spring. Rosary and candlelight procession. Dinner and overnight. (B,D)
Day 10: LOURDES/BARCELONA
Breakfast in Hotel and departure to Barcelona (450 km). Before the arrival, stop to visit the Benedictine Monastery of Montserrat, dedicated to the Virgin Mary and the point of arrival of many pilgrims since the eleventh century. Lunch. Arrival in Barcelona in the evening. Orientation tour and transfer to our Hotel. Dinner and overnight (B,L,D)
Day 11: BARCELONA
Breakfast in the Hotel and full-day guided visit to the capital city of Cataluna. Today we will start with The Sagrada Familia, the fabulous Basilica born from the Genius of the famous architect Gaudi. We will proceed to visit other samples of the Genius of Gaudì like Casa Batillo and Park Guell. Dinner and overnight (B,D)
DAY 12: BARCELONA
Breakfast in the hotel and the second day dedicated to the visit to the city. We will visit the Cathedral, the Ramblas, and the Gothic quarter. Tie for lunch and free time for shopping. Dinner and overnight hotel (B,L,D)
Day 13: BARCELONA/USA
After breakfast, free time and transfer to the airport for the flight back to the United States. (B)
DOWNLOAD BROCHURE AND APPLICATION
Trip Date: April 22 - May 03, 2024
Package price: $4690.00
Departure City: Denver, CO (DEN) (other cities available)
Package Price includes:
Round-trip airline tickets
2 nights in Fatima hotel Regina o similar
2 night in Santiago de Compostela Hospederia San Martin Pinario o similar
1 night or Burgos or Silos Hospederia San Francisco or similar
1 night in Leon Hotel 4 star
1 night in San Sebastian Hotel 4 star
1 night in Manresa Hotel 4 star
1 night in Lourdes Hotel 4 star
2 nights in Barcelona hotel 4 star
Breakfast, and dinner daily
Wine and mineral water with dinner
Tour escort throughout the pilgrimage
All gratuities to hotels
5 lunches
The price does not include
Lunches other than those mentioned above
Gratuities for guides, and drivers
Soft drinks
All personal expenses
Travel Insurance
Anything not mentioned in the included
11 Days In the Footsteps of Jesus from Denver, CO (DEN) February 20 - March 01, 2024 - With Fr. Gregg Pedersen
11 Days In the Footsteps of Jesus from Denver, CO (DEN)
February 20 - March 01, 2024
With Fr. Gregg Pedersen
OUR LADY OF THE VALLEY PARISHIONERS ONLY
Day 1: Tuesday: February 20th, 2024. Departure from Denver.
Depart for your overnight flights to the Holy Land.
Day 2: Wednesday: February 21st, 2024. Arrive Tel Aviv, Transfer to Tiberius.
Arrive in Tel Aviv, meet your guide, and transfer to Tiberius.
Visit Caesarea Maritima.
Dinner and overnight at a hotel in Tiberias.
Day 3: Thursday: February 22nd, 2024. Nazareth, Cana of Galilee.
Mass - Nazareth - Church of Annunciation.
Nazareth, visiting the Basilica of the Annunciation.
Joseph’s Church, and Mary’s Well.
Cana of Galilee.
Dinner and overnight at hotel in Tiberias.
Day 4: Friday: February 23rd ,2024. Mount Tabor, Banias
Mass - Mount Tabor- Basilica of the Transfiguration.
Caesarea Philippi.
Mount Tabor.
Enjoy a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee.
Dinner and overnight at hotel in Tiberias.
Day 5: Saturday: February 24th ,2024. Sea of Galilee
Mass - St. Peter’s Primacy.
St. Peter’s Primacy.
Tabaha, site of the multiplication of the fishes and the loaves.
The Mount of Beatitudes for a time of prayer and reflection.
Depart to Jerusalem via Jordan Valley.
Dinner and overnight at hotel in Bethlehem.
Day 6: Sunday: February 25th ,2024. Bethlehem.
Mass - Bethlehem – Basilica.
Shepherd’s Field in Beit Sahour.
Visit Banoura Family visit their Olive Wood factory.
The Church of the Nativity. St. Catherine church, the Grotto of St. Jerome.
Dinner and overnight at hotel in Bethlehem.
Day 7: Monday: February 26th ,2024. Bethany, Dead Sea
Mass – Bethany.
Bethany, Lazarus tomb.
Visit Jericho, Zacchaeus tree old city and view mount of Temptation.
Baptism site (Jordan River).
Dead Sea.
Dinner and overnight at hotel in Bethlehem.
Day 8: Tuesday: February 27th ,2024. Mt of Olives, Gethsemane.
Mass - Jerusalem – Mount of Olives.
The Garden of Gethsemane and the Church of All Nations.
Panoramic view from the top of Mount of Olives.
Ascension Hill on the Mount of Olives.
The Church of Pater Noster.
The Church of Dominus Flevit.
Church of Gallicantu and the upper room.
Dinner and overnight at hotel in Bethlehem
Day 9: Wednesday: February 28th ,2024. Jerusalem.
Mass- Ain Karem.
Walk the steps to the Temple and view the Dome of the Rock.
The Western Wall, the Western Wall tunnels.
Visit Ein Karem.
Dinner and overnight at hotel in Jerusalem.
Day 10: Thursday: February 29th ,2024. Jerusalem
Mass - - Basilica of the Holy Sepulcher.
Early walk to the Holy Sepulcher.
Anne’s Church, the Pools of Bethesda.
Walk the Via Dolorosa ending at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher.
Free Time in the Old City of Jerusalem.
Dinner and overnight at a hotel in Jerusalem.
Day 11: Friday: March 1st ,2024. Departure
Check out, and depart for the airport.
Arrive USA.
DOWNLOAD BROCHURE AND APPLICATION
Trip Date: February 20 - March 01, 2024
Departure City: Denver, CO (DEN) (Other cities available)
Holy Land Package Price: $4190.00
Single Suplement: $1000.00
The package Price includes the following:
Round trip from Denver.
Meet & Assist at Ben Gurion Airport upon arrival and departure.
Three nights’ accommodation in Tiberius in double occupancy with breakfast & dinner.
Four accommodations in Bethlehem in double occupancy with breakfast & dinner.
Two accommodations in Jerusalem in double occupancy with breakfast & dinner.
Ten days sightseeing in a modern air-conditioned private bus.
English-speaking government-licensed Christian guide on duty.
Entrance fees to places of interest whilst on tour in the Holy Land.
Special dinner at an oriental restaurant.
Lunches
The package Price Does not include the following:
Tips for Guide, Driver, and Hotels.
Drinks at hotels and restaurants
All Personal Expenses.
Travel insurance (Highly recommended)
11 Days life Changing Journey to the Holy Land - January 23 - February 02, 2024 - Fr. Joseph Oiye
Day One: Departure
Depart for your overnight flights to the Holy Land. Meals will be served on board.
Day Two: Arrival
Arrive at Ben Gurion Airport, Tel Aviv. Meet and Assist by your Guide, then transfer to your hotel in Tiberius, approximately two and a half hours drive. En route a possible visit to Caesarea Maritima, a harbor city that was built by Herod the Great. Dinner and overnight in Tiberius
Day Three: Nazareth / Cana of Galilee / Mount Tabor
Begin the day with a visit to Nazareth, the town where Jesus grew up. Visit the Basilica of Annunciation (Mass), marking the annunciation by the Angel Gabriel of the birth of Jesus. See Mary’s well and the grotto, believed to have been the home of the Virgin Mary; the centuries-old Church of St. Gabriel. Continue to Cana of Galilee, where Jesus performed His first miracle of turning water into wine during a wedding feast. See the Wedding Church. End the day going to Mt. Tabor and visit the beautiful two-level Basilica of the Transfiguration, marking the Transfiguration of Jesus before Peter and James and talking with Moses and Elias. Enjoy the breathtaking view of the valley below. Dinner and overnight in the hotel in Tiberias. Mass at Annunciation Church
Day Four: Golan Heights/Sea of Galilee
After breakfast, we drive to Golan Height to visit Caesarea Philippi which became an important Christian pilgrimage destination as the place where Jesus asked the disciples “Who do people say I am?". Drive back to Tiberius to Follow the footsteps of Jesus’ ministry in the villages around the Sea of Galilee, begin with a visit to Capernaum, often called the hometown of Christ. Capernaum is where Jesus healed a centurion’s servant, Peter’s mother-in-law, and many others who were brought to Him. See the church marking St. Peter’s house. Continue to Tabgha and visit the church of Multiplication of the Loaves and Fish, commemorating Jesus’ miracle of feeding 5,000 men. See the Church of St. Peter’s Primacy (Mass), where Jesus appeared to the disciples after the resurrection. The next stop is Mt. of Beatitudes, the hill where He preached the Sermon on the Mount to the multitudes that stood below. The journey continues as you are welcome to take a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee and remember the events which took place in the area. Return to hotel for dinner and overnight. Mass at Capernaum.
Day Five: Haifa/ Mount Carmel/ Jaffa/ Bethlehem
Drive to Mt. Carmel, visit Carmelites’ monastery Stella Maris Church (Mass). It was Mt. Carmel that Prophet Elijah chose for gathering together all the people with the prophets of Baal to prove who the True God is. Proceed to the Hanging Gardens of Haifa, also known as the Terraces of Baha’i Faith. These garden terraces form the Shrine of the Baal on Mount Carmel. Described as the Eighth Wonder of the World, they are one of the most visited tourist attractions in the country. Drive to Caesarea Maritima, a city and harbor built by Herod the Great about XXV-XIII BC. Today, its ruins lie on the Mediterranean coast of Israel about halfway between the cities of Tel Aviv and Haifa. It is here that Apostle Peter baptized Cornelius the Centurion and following it established there a church. Continue to Joppa (Jaffa), an ancient port city, which is believed to be one of the oldest in the world. The Bible says that St. Peters’ resurrection of the widow Tabitha takes place in Joppa. Dinner and overnight in Bethlehem. Mass at Stella Marris.
Day Six: Shepherd’s Field/ Bethlehem
After breakfast, we stop in Beth Sahour to visit the Shepherds’ Fields, identified with shepherds who saw the Star of Nativity. Continue to Bethlehem visit the Nativity Church, Chapel of the Innocents, Church of St. Katherine, and the Manger Square. See the Milk Grotto, where, according to tradition, the Holy Family took refuge during the Slaughter of the Innocents, before their flight into Egypt. Tradition has it that while Mary was nursing Jesus here, a drop of her divine milk fell to the ground, turning it white. Dinner and overnight in Bethlehem. Mass at Bethlehem Basilica
Day Seven: Bethany/ Dead Sea/ Qumran/ Jericho
After Breakfast, we make a stop at Bethany to visit the house of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus and the Tomb of Lazarus, proceed to visit Jericho which has been the cradle of civilization as far back as 7,000 to 10,000 B.C. It was the first city taken by the oldest cities in the world. It was the first city taken by the tribes of Israel after they crossed the River Jordan. In Jericho, Christ cured a blind man It was here that the chief tax collector Zacchaeus, who was short of stature, climbed a sycamore tree so that he could see Jesus, View Mount of Temptation situated in the northwest of Jericho over-looking the world’s most ancient city. After Lunch in Jericho, we drive to Qumran where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered. Visit the remains of the Community Center of the Essences and the Caves of the Scrolls. From there we drive to a private beach on the Dead Sea for a dip in the salt and mineral-laden. Finally, you can renew our baptismal vows, the traditional baptismal site on the river Jordan. Dinner and overnight in Bethlehem. Mass at Bethany Church.
Day Eight: Mount of Olives/ Mount Zion
Begin your visit with one of the most magnificent views in the world: ancient Jerusalem as seen from the top of the Mt. of Olives. Visit the Pater Noster Church, where the Prayer “Our Father” is inscribed in dozens of languages, Church of Ascension, marking the place where Jesus ascended to Heaven. Then down the Mt. of Olives in the footsteps of Jesus take the Palm Sunday Walk. Stop at Dominus Flevit (‘the Lord Wept’). From there we drive to Mt. Zion to visit the church of St. Peter’s in Gallicantu the church of the Dormition, King David’s Tomb, and Room of the Last Supper. Drive back to Bethlehem for Dinner. After Dinner, we will have a special Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament at the Basilica of the Agony in the Garden of Gethsemane, for prayer and contemplation see the Rock where Jesus prayed for God’s will to be done. overnight in the hotel. Mass at Dominus Flevit.
Day Nine: Old City of Jerusalem.
Begin the day with a walk in the Old City of Jerusalem (The way of the cross “Via Dolorosa”). Among others today we shall see the Holy Sepulcher (Mass), the Western Wall, the Dome of the Rock and the temple mount, “Ecce Homo” Arch, Pilate’s Judgment Hall, Chapel of the Flagellation, St. Anne’s Church, and Bethesda. Return to Bethlehem for Dinner and overnight in the hotel. Mass in the Old City
Day Ten: Ein Karem
In the morning, we head to Ein Karem (spring of the Vineyard), according to tradition, the place of birth of John the Baptist. There are two churches by his name in the place. See the Church of the Visitation, built on the place where the pregnant Mary visited her pregnant cousin Elizabeth and stayed for three months. Enjoy a free afternoon in Bethlehem or Jerusalem and take in the beauty of the country. We will enjoy our farewell dinner at a local restaurant and enjoy a folklore show and dance. Overnight in the hotel. Mass in Ein Karem
Day Eleven: Departure
After breakfast, check out of our hotel and head to the airport of our journey back home.
Trip Date: January 23 - February 02, 2024
Departure City: Denver, CO (other cities available)
Package Price: $4090.00
Single Supplement: $1000.00
The package price includes the following:
Round trip from Denver, CO (DEN)
Meet & Assist at Ben Gurion Airport upon arrival and departure.
Three nights’ accommodation in Tiberius in double occupancy with breakfast and dinner.
Six-night accommodation in Bethlehem in double occupancy with breakfast and dinner.
Ten days sightseeing in a modern air-conditioned private bus.
Bilingual-speaking government-licensed Christian guide on duty.
Entrance fees to places of interest whilst on tour in the Holy Land.
Special dinner at an oriental restaurant.
The package price does not include the following:
Lunches
Tips for Guide, Driver, and hotels.
Drinks at hotels and restaurants
All Personal Expenses.
Travel Insurance.
11 Días de viaje a la tierra santa ENERO 23 - FEBRERO 02 2024 Decan Ruben Estrada
Dia 1: Salida de EE.UU.
Partir para sus vuelos para la Tierra Santa
Dia 2: Llegar Tel Aviv, Transferir a Tiberio, Nazaret.
Llegada a Tel Aviv.
Conozca a su guia y transfieralo a Tibero o Nazaret.
Cena y alojamiento en hotel en Tiberio or Nazaret.
Dia 3: Nazaret, Monte Tabor, Cana
Monte Tabor. (Celebra una Misa)
Nazaret, visitando la Basilica de la Anunciacion.
Iglesia San Jose y pozo de Maria.
Cana de Galilee.
Cena y alojamiento en hotel en Tiberio o Nazaret
Dia 4: Banias, Sea of Galilee
El Monte de las Bienaventuranzas para un tiempo de oracion y reflexion.
Caesarea de Filipo.
Capernaum. La primacia de San Pedro. (Celebra una Misa)
Tabaha, sitio de la multiplicacion de los peces y los panes.
Disfruta de una comida “El pez de San Pedro” y paseo en barco por el Mar de Galilea.
Cena y alojamiento en hotel en Tiberio o Nazaret.
Dia 5: Monte Carmelo, Llanuras Costeras.
Monte Carmelo. (Celebra una Misa)
Stella Marris, Haifa.
Caesarea Maritime.
Salida para Jerusalen por las llanuas costeras.
Cena y alojamiento en hotel en Belen.
Dia 6: Belen, El Campo del Pastor.
El Campo del pastor en Beit Sahour.
La Iglesia de la Natividad. (Celebra la Misa)
Iglesia de Santa Catalina, la Gruta de San Jeronimo, Gruta de la leche.
Ciudad vieja de Belen.
Cena y alojamiento en el hotel en Belen.
Dia 7: Mar Muerto, Jerico, Betania
Betania, La Tumba de Lazaro. (Celebra una Misa)
Qumran, sitio del descubrimiento de los Rollos del Mar Muerto.
Sitio de bautismo (rio Jordan)
Visite Jerico, la ciudad vieja del arbol de Zaqueo y vea el monte de Tentacion.
Cena y alojamiento en el hotel en Belen.
Dia 8: Monte de los Olivos, Monte Sion.
Vista panoramica desde la cima del Monte de los Olivos.
Colina de Ascension en el Monte de los Olivos.
La Iglesia de Pater Noster.
La Iglesia de Dominus Flevit.
El Jardin de Getsemani y la iglesia de todas las naciones (Celebra una Misa)
Monte Sion y el Cenaculo.
Cena y alojamiento en el hotel en Belen.
Dia 9: Via Dolorosa, Santo Sepulcro
El muro de las lamentaciones
Iglesia de Santa Ana, las piscinas de Bethesda.
Camina por la Via Dolorosa que termina en la Iglesia del Santo Sepulcro, Celebra una Misa)
Tiempo libre en la ciudad vieja de Jerusalen.
Cena y alojamiento en Belen.
Dia 10: Ein Karem, Emaus.
Visita a Ein Karem. (Celebra una Misa)
Visita a Emaus.
Visite la Sabana Santa de Turin, Notre Damme Jerusalen.
Cena y alojamiento en Belen
Day 11: Salida
Regresar a EE.UU.
11 Days life Changing Journey to the Holy Land from Denver, CO - January 02 - 12, 2024 - With Fr. Kyle Ingels and Fr. Matthew Kane
11 Days life Changing Journey to the Holy Land from Denver, CO - January 02 - 12, 2024 - With Fr. Kyle Ingels and Fr. Matthew Kane
Day One: Departure
Depart for your overnight flights to the Holy Land. Meals will be served on board.
Day Two: Arrival
Arrive at Ben Gurion Airport, Tel Aviv. Meet and Assist by your Guide, then transfer to your hotel in Tiberius, approximately two and a half hours drive. En route a possible visit to Caesarea Maritima, a harbor city that was built by Herod the Great. Dinner and overnight in Tiberius
Day Three: Nazareth / Cana of Galilee / Mount Tabor
Begin the day with a visit to Nazareth, the town where Jesus grew up. Visit the Basilica of Annunciation (Mass), marking the annunciation by the Angel Gabriel of the birth of Jesus. See Mary’s well and the grotto, believed to have been the home of the Virgin Mary; the centuries-old Church of St. Gabriel. Continue to Cana of Galilee, where Jesus performed His first miracle of turning water into wine during a wedding feast. See the Wedding Church. End the day going to Mt. Tabor and visit the beautiful two-level Basilica of the Transfiguration, marking the Transfiguration of Jesus before Peter and James and talking with Moses and Elias. Enjoy the breathtaking view of the valley below. Dinner and overnight in the hotel in Tiberias. Mass at Annunciation Church
Day Four: Golan Heights/Sea of Galilee
After breakfast, we drive to Golan Height to visit Caesarea Philippi which became an important Christian pilgrimage destination as the place where Jesus asked the disciples “Who do people say I am?". Drive back to Tiberius to Follow the footsteps of Jesus’ ministry in the villages around the Sea of Galilee, begin with a visit to Capernaum, often called the hometown of Christ. Capernaum is where Jesus healed a centurion’s servant, Peter’s mother-in-law, and many others who were brought to Him. See the church marking St. Peter’s house. Continue to Tabgha and visit the church of Multiplication of the Loaves and Fish, commemorating Jesus’ miracle of feeding 5,000 men. See the Church of St. Peter’s Primacy (Mass), where Jesus appeared to the disciples after the resurrection. The next stop is Mt. of Beatitudes, the hill where He preached the Sermon on the Mount to the multitudes that stood below. The journey continues as you are welcome to take a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee and remember the events which took place in the area. Return to hotel for dinner and overnight. Mass at Capernaum.
Day Five: Haifa/ Mount Carmel/ Jaffa/ Bethlehem
Drive to Mt. Carmel, visit Carmelites’ monastery Stella Maris Church (Mass). It was Mt. Carmel that Prophet Elijah chose for gathering together all the people with the prophets of Baal to prove who the True God is. Proceed to the Hanging Gardens of Haifa, also known as the Terraces of Baha’i Faith. These garden terraces form the Shrine of the Baal on Mount Carmel. Described as the Eighth Wonder of the World, they are one of the most visited tourist attractions in the country. Drive to Caesarea Maritima, a city and harbor built by Herod the Great about XXV-XIII BC. Today, its ruins lie on the Mediterranean coast of Israel about halfway between the cities of Tel Aviv and Haifa. It is here that Apostle Peter baptized Cornelius the Centurion and following it established there a church. Continue to Joppa (Jaffa), an ancient port city, which is believed to be one of the oldest in the world. The Bible says that St. Peters’ resurrection of the widow Tabitha takes place in Joppa. Dinner and overnight in Bethlehem. Mass at Stella Marris.
Day Six: Shepherd’s Field/ Bethlehem
After breakfast, we stop in Beth Sahour to visit the Shepherds’ Fields, identified with shepherds who saw the Star of Nativity. Continue to Bethlehem visit the Nativity Church, Chapel of the Innocents, Church of St. Katherine, and the Manger Square. See the Milk Grotto, where, according to tradition, the Holy Family took refuge during the Slaughter of the Innocents, before their flight into Egypt. Tradition has it that while Mary was nursing Jesus here, a drop of her divine milk fell to the ground, turning it white. Dinner and overnight in Bethlehem. Mass at Bethlehem Basilica
Day Seven: Bethany/ Dead Sea/ Qumran/ Jericho
After Breakfast, we make a stop at Bethany to visit the house of Mary, Martha, and Lazarus and the Tomb of Lazarus, proceed to visit Jericho which has been the cradle of civilization as far back as 7,000 to 10,000 B.C. It was the first city taken by the oldest cities in the world. It was the first city taken by the tribes of Israel after they crossed the River Jordan. In Jericho, Christ cured a blind man It was here that the chief tax collector Zacchaeus, who was short of stature, climbed a sycamore tree so that he could see Jesus, View Mount of Temptation situated in the northwest of Jericho over-looking the world’s most ancient city. After Lunch in Jericho, we drive to Qumran where the Dead Sea Scrolls were discovered. Visit the remains of the Community Center of the Essences and the Caves of the Scrolls. From there we drive to a private beach on the Dead Sea for a dip in the salt and mineral-laden. Finally, you can renew our baptismal vows, the traditional baptismal site on the river Jordan. Dinner and overnight in Bethlehem. Mass at Bethany Church.
Day Eight: Mount of Olives/ Mount Zion
Begin your visit with one of the most magnificent views in the world: ancient Jerusalem as seen from the top of the Mt. of Olives. Visit the Pater Noster Church, where the Prayer “Our Father” is inscribed in dozens of languages, Church of Ascension, marking the place where Jesus ascended to Heaven. Then down the Mt. of Olives in the footsteps of Jesus take the Palm Sunday Walk. Stop at Dominus Flevit (‘the Lord Wept’). From there we drive to Mt. Zion to visit the church of St. Peter’s in Gallicantu the church of the Dormition, King David’s Tomb, and Room of the Last Supper. Drive back to Bethlehem for Dinner. After Dinner, we will have a special Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament at the Basilica of the Agony in the Garden of Gethsemane, for prayer and contemplation see the Rock where Jesus prayed for God’s will to be done. overnight in the hotel. Mass at Dominus Flevit.
Day Nine: Old City of Jerusalem.
Begin the day with a walk in the Old City of Jerusalem (The way of the cross “Via Dolorosa”). Among others today we shall see the Holy Sepulcher (Mass), the Western Wall, the Dome of the Rock and the temple mount, “Ecce Homo” Arch, Pilate’s Judgment Hall, Chapel of the Flagellation, St. Anne’s Church, and Bethesda. Return to Bethlehem for Dinner and overnight in the hotel. Mass in the Old City
Day Ten: Ein Karem
In the morning, we head to Ein Karem (spring of the Vineyard), according to tradition, the place of birth of John the Baptist. There are two churches by his name in the place. See the Church of the Visitation, built on the place where the pregnant Mary visited her pregnant cousin Elizabeth and stayed for three months. Enjoy a free afternoon in Bethlehem or Jerusalem and take in the beauty of the country. We will enjoy our farewell dinner at a local restaurant and enjoy a folklore show and dance. Overnight in the hotel. Mass in Ein Karem
Day Eleven: Departure
After breakfast, check out of our hotel and head to the airport of our journey back home.
Trip Date: January 02 - 12, 2024
Departure City: Denver, CO (other cities available)
Package Price: $4290.00
The package price includes the following:
Round trip from Denver, CO (DEN)
Meet & Assist at Ben Gurion Airport upon arrival and departure.
Three nights’ accommodation in Tiberius in double occupancy with breakfast and dinner.
Six-night accommodation in Bethlehem in double occupancy with breakfast and dinner.
Ten days sightseeing in a modern air-conditioned private bus.
English-speaking government-licensed Christian guide on duty.
Entrance fees to places of interest whilst on tour in the Holy Land.
Special dinner at an oriental restaurant.
The package price does not include the following:
Lunches
Tips for Guide, Driver, and hotels.
Drinks at hotels and restaurants
All Personal Expenses.
Travel Insurance.
11 Day Holy Land Pilgrimage November 27 - December 07, 2023 from Denver, CO (DEN) with Fr. Timothy Hjelstrom
11 Day Holy Land Pilgrimage
November 27 - December 07, 2023 from Denver, CO (DEN)
with Fr. Timothy Hjelstrom
Day 1: Monday, November 27th, 2023. Departure from the USA
Depart for your overnight flights to the Holy Land.
AC 1038 DEN - YYZ 7:40am – 12:46pm
AC 080 YYZ - TLV 4:50 pm - 10:15 am next day
Day 2: Tuesday, November 28th, 2023. Arrive Tel Aviv, Transfer to Tiberius.
Arrive in Tel Aviv.
Meet your guide and transfer to Tiberius.
Dinner and overnight at a hotel in Tiberius.
Day 3: Wednesday, November 29th, 2023. Nazareth, Mount Tabor, Cana
Mass -Cana - Church
Cana of Galilee.
Nazareth, visiting the Basilica of the Annunciation. St. Joseph’s Church, and Mary’s well.
Mount Tabor.
Dinner and overnight at a hotel in Tiberius.
Day 4: Thursday, November 30th,2023. Banias, Sea of Galilee
Mass - Capernaum.
The Mount of Beatitudes for a time of prayer and reflection.
Caesarea Philippi.
Capernaum. St. Peter’s Primacy.
Tabaha, the site of the multiplication of the fishes and the loaves.
Enjoy a meal of “St. Peter’s fish” and a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee.
Dinner and overnight at a hotel in Tiberius.
Day 5: Friday, December 1st, 2023. Mount Carmel, Coastal Plains.
Mass - Stella Marris
Mount Carmel. Stella Marris, Haifa.
Caesarea Maritime.
Depart to Jerusalem via Coastal Plains.
Dinner and overnight at hotel in Bethlehem.
Day 6: Saturday, December 2nd, 2023. Bethlehem, Shepherd’s field.
Mass -Bethlehem – Basilica -
Shepherd’s Field in Beit Sahour.
The Church of the Nativity.
St. Catherine church, the Grotto of St. Jerome, Milk Grotto.
The old city of Bethlehem.
Dinner and overnight at hotel in Bethlehem.
Day 7: Sunday, December 3rd, 2023. Dead Sea, Jericho, Bethany
Mass – Bethany.
Bethany, Lazarus tomb.
Qumran, site of the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls.
Baptism site (Jordan River).
Visit Jericho, Zacchaeus tree old city, and view the Mount of Temptation.
Dinner and overnight at hotel in Bethlehem.
Day 8: Monday, December 4th, 2023. Mount of Olives, Mount Zion.
Mass – Jerusalem.
Panoramic view from the top of Mount Olives.
Ascension Hill on the Mount of Olives.
The Church of Pater Noster.
The Church of Dominus Flevit.
The Garden of Gethsemane and the Church of All Nations.
Mt. Zion and the Cenacle (Upper Room).
Dinner and overnight at a hotel in Bethlehem.
Day 9: Tuesday, December 5th, 2023. Via Dolorosa, Holy Sepulcher
Mass - Jerusalem
The Western Wall.
St. Anne’s Church, the Pools of Bethesda.
Walk the Via Dolorosa ending at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher.
Free Time in the Old City of Jerusalem.
Dinner and overnight at hotel in Bethlehem.
Day 10: Wednesday, December 6th, 2023. Ein Karem, Emmaus.
Mass – Ein Karem
Visit Ein Karem.
Visit Emmaus.
Dinner and overnight at hotel in Bethlehem.
Day 11: Thursdays, December 7th, 2023. Departure
Depart for the airport.
AC 081 TLV - YYZ 11:55am - 5:00pm
AC1041 YYZ- DEN 6:30pm - 8:16pm
Note: *While we do our very best at making sure all items listed in your itinerary are included, there are times when conditions beyond our control affect your program/itinerary, including but not limited to air carrier changes, delays, weather, political climate, time constraints, or changes by your tour leader and tour guide.
DOWNLOAD BROCHURE AND APPLICATION
Trip date: November 27 - December 07, 2023
Departure City: from Denver, CO (DEN) Package Price: $4090.00
A single supplement is $850.00 (Private room)
The package price includes the following:
Round Trip Airline Ticket
Meet & Assist at Ben Gurion Airport upon arrival and departures
Nine nights accommodation in double occupancy with breakfast and dinner
Ten days sightseeing in a modern air-conditioned private bus
English Speaking government-licensed Christian Guide.
All entrance fees to places of interest
Special dinner at oriental restaurant with folklore show
Mass daily
Complete travel portfolio (confirmations, backpack, name badge, luggage tag, power adaptor)
The package price does not include the following:
Lunches
Tips for Guide, Driver, and hotels.
Personal expenses
soft drinks
Travel Insurance
Anything not mentioned above
11 Day Holy Land Pilgrimage November 27 - December 07, 2023 with Fr. Lawrence Solan
Day 1: Monday, November 27th, 2023. Departure from the USA
Depart for your overnight flights to the Holy Land.
AC 1038 DEN - YYZ 7:40am – 12:46pm
AC 080 YYZ - TLV 4:50 pm - 10:15 am next day
Day 2: Tuesday, November 28th, 2023. Arrive Tel Aviv, Transfer to Tiberius.
Arrive in Tel Aviv.
Meet your guide and transfer to Tiberius.
Dinner and overnight at a hotel in Tiberius.
Day 3: Wednesday, November 29th, 2023. Nazareth, Mount Tabor, Cana
Mass -Cana - Church
Cana of Galilee.
Nazareth, visiting the Basilica of the Annunciation. St. Joseph’s Church, and Mary’s well.
Mount Tabor.
Dinner and overnight at a hotel in Tiberius.
Day 4: Thursday, November 30th,2023. Banias, Sea of Galilee
Mass - Capernaum.
The Mount of Beatitudes for a time of prayer and reflection.
Caesarea Philippi.
Capernaum. St. Peter’s Primacy.
Tabaha, the site of the multiplication of the fishes and the loaves.
Enjoy a meal of “St. Peter’s fish” and a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee.
Dinner and overnight at a hotel in Tiberius.
Day 5: Friday, December 1st, 2023. Mount Carmel, Coastal Plains.
Mass - Stella Marris
Mount Carmel. Stella Marris, Haifa.
Caesarea Maritime.
Depart to Jerusalem via Coastal Plains.
Dinner and overnight at hotel in Bethlehem.
Day 6: Saturday, December 2nd, 2023. Bethlehem, Shepherd’s field.
Mass -Bethlehem – Basilica -
Shepherd’s Field in Beit Sahour.
The Church of the Nativity.
St. Catherine church, the Grotto of St. Jerome, Milk Grotto.
The old city of Bethlehem.
Dinner and overnight at hotel in Bethlehem.
Day 7: Sunday, December 3rd, 2023. Dead Sea, Jericho, Bethany
Mass – Bethany.
Bethany, Lazarus tomb.
Qumran, site of the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls.
Baptism site (Jordan River).
Visit Jericho, Zacchaeus tree old city, and view the Mount of Temptation.
Dinner and overnight at hotel in Bethlehem.
Day 8: Monday, December 4th, 2023. Mount of Olives, Mount Zion.
Mass – Jerusalem.
Panoramic view from the top of Mount Olives.
Ascension Hill on the Mount of Olives.
The Church of Pater Noster.
The Church of Dominus Flevit.
The Garden of Gethsemane and the Church of All Nations.
Mt. Zion and the Cenacle (Upper Room).
Dinner and overnight at a hotel in Bethlehem.
Day 9: Tuesday, December 5th, 2023. Via Dolorosa, Holy Sepulcher
Mass - Jerusalem
The Western Wall.
St. Anne’s Church, the Pools of Bethesda.
Walk the Via Dolorosa ending at the Church of the Holy Sepulcher.
Free Time in the Old City of Jerusalem.
Dinner and overnight at hotel in Bethlehem.
Day 10: Wednesday, December 6th, 2023. Ein Karem, Emmaus.
Mass – Ein Karem
Visit Ein Karem.
Visit Emmaus.
Dinner and overnight at hotel in Bethlehem.
Day 11: Thursdays, December 7th, 2023. Departure
Depart for the airport.
AC 081 TLV - YYZ 11:55am - 5:00pm
AC1041 YYZ- DEN 6:30pm - 8:16pm
Note: *While we do our very best at making sure all items listed in your itinerary are included, there are times when conditions beyond our control affect your program/itinerary, including but not limited to air carrier changes, delays, weather, political climate, time constraints, or changes by your tour leader and tour guide.
DOWNLOAD BROCHURE AND APPLICATION
Trip date: November 27 - December 07, 2023
Departure City: from Denver, CO (DEN) Package Price: $4090.00
A single supplement is $850.00 (Private room)
The package price includes the following:
Round Trip Airline Ticket
Meet & Assist at Ben Gurion Airport upon arrival and departures
Nine nights accommodation in double occupancy with breakfast and dinner
Ten days sightseeing in a modern air-conditioned private bus
English Speaking government-licensed Christian Guide.
All entrance fees to places of interest
Special dinner at oriental restaurant with folklore show
Mass daily
Complete travel portfolio (confirmations, backpack, name badge, luggage tag, power adaptor)
The package price does not include the following:
Lunches
Tips for Guide, Driver, and hotels.
Personal expenses
soft drinks
Travel Insurance
Anything not mentioned above
11 Days In the footsteps of Jesus - The Holy Land October 16 - 26, 2023 - Fr. Gerardo Garcia
12 Days Greece & Greek Islands from Denver, CO - September 25 - October 06, 2023 - Frs. Enrique Salazar & Felicien Mbala
12 Days Greece & Greek Islands from Denver, CO - September 23 - October 04, 2023 - Fr. Enrique Salazar
12 Days Greece & Greek Islands from Denver, CO - September 23 - October 04, 2023 - Fr. Enrique Salazar
12 Days Greece & Greek Islands
Day 1 – DEPARTURE TO GREECE
Depart for your overnight flight to Greece, meals served on board.
Day 2 – ARIVAL THESSALONIKI
Arrive in Thessaloniki where you will be met outside baggage claim and escorted to your vehicle for a transfer to the hotel. Later this afternoon, meet your guide for a short Orientation Tour. Enjoy a welcome dinner with fellow travelers this evening. Overnight at hotel Kapsis (or similar)
Day 3 – THESSALONIKI
Thessaloniki, Greece’s second-largest city with a population of some 1 million and a vital cultural, industrial, and commercial city, lies amphitheatrically on the Thermaicos Gulf, on the slopes of Mount Chortiatis. Founded by the Greek Macedonian King Kassander, he named the city Thessaloniki after his wife who was also the half-sister of Alexander the Great. During the Roman period, it was the capital of Macedonia Secunda and during the Middle Ages, it was the second city of the Byzantine Empire. For 400 years it was occupied by the Ottoman Empire until it was finally freed in 1912.
We start our excursion of the city viewing the White Tower, a historical landmark before continuing on to visit the Archaeological Museum which houses interesting finds from the Archaic, Classical, and Roman periods, with findings of the Sindos area and a stunning exhibition of golden jewels. Stop for a typical Greek lunch. From here, drive by the International Trade Fair grounds and the Aristotelion University, which was established in 1926 and today is the largest of all universities in Greece. Next, make your way up to the once upon time, Acropolis, located in the upper part of the city. It is here, that you will have a superb panoramic view of the entire city with the Thermaic Gulf and Mount Olympus in the background.
Further visit to St. Demetrios Basilica which was erected in the 5th century AD. The five-aisled basilica suffered a tragic fire in the year 1917 but was later restored in 1948. Marvel at the beautiful mosaics, dating back from the 5th to 9th Centuries. From here, follow your guide to the area located under the basilica, where you will see the famous crypt, which according to tradition, was once the confinement for an officer by the name of Demetrius who was later executed by Emperor Gallerius. Today, St. Demetrius is the patron Saint of the city.
Return to your motor coach and drive along the modern street, Egnatia, named after the famous Roman road, Via Egnatia. While driving, view the Arch of Gallerius and St. George’s Rotonda. The tour will end by passing by the well-preserved Byzantine Basilica of St. Sophia, an 8th Century structure, rich in mosaics and frescoes. Overnight hotel Kapsis or similar.
Day 4 – THESSALONIKI – KAVAL – PHILIPPI – THESSALONIKI
Kavala, the ancient site of Neapolis, founded in the 7th Century BC, is the very same place where St. Paul set foot on the European Continent during his second missionary journey, establishing a thriving Christian church in the nearby city of Philippi. The famous Egnatian road, which once ran from the Adriatic Sea to Constantinople, passed by this city.
On the way to Philippi, you will have the opportunity to view the St. Sylas Monastery named after one of St. Paul’s companions. Arrive at the famous city of Philippi, one of the most interesting biblical and historical ancient cities. The city once known as Krinides was renamed “Philippi” after King Philip II, father of Alexander the Great. It is this place where Brutus and Cassius were defeated by Mark Antony and Junavian Augustus, granting the City of Philippi a great many privileges. From here, drive a short distance to the Baptistery and the River, where Lydia, the first European convert was baptized by St. Paul.
Return to the archaeological site for a guided tour through the excavations, marveling at the upper and lower parts as well as the Forum, the Walls, the two Basilicas, and the Theatre. Your guide will also point out the traditional prison, which once held St. Paul and St. Silas.
After lunch in Philippi Site, we will do a short orientation tour of Kavala (Ancient Neapolis) and then drive back to Thessaloniki. Overnight hotel Kapsis or similar.
Day 5 – THESSALONIKI – PELLA – KALAMBAKA
Your tour starts with a 45-minute drive to Pella birthplace of Alexander the Great, where you will explore the site on foot.
Pella was the second capital of ancient Macedonia, founded by king Archelaos who had built the magnificent palace, its walls being decorated by the famous painter Zeuxis and made it into the seat of the Royal Family. Being situated at the riverside of Ludias, which was once navigable, was developed into an important port. Euripides was at Pella to see his plays produced and performed there and Aristotle was appointed to educate young Alexander. We start our visits here first with the Archaeological Museum. Being small but very important, due to its rich collection of clay figurines, the classical black and red-figured vases, the pebble floor mosaics, and the fine reconstruction of the interior architectural part of the Greek house with its stucco decoration. We start visiting the excavations with the huge Greek houses bearing the central courtyards and being surrounded by big rooms, walk along the streets facing the shops of the big market, and admire the still existing floor mosaics.
Continue to visit the Royal Tombs of Vergina (Land of Alexander the Great) we will have lunch at Elia Restaurant in Veria, overlooking the valley Aliakmon. The tour includes a visit to the newly completed exhibition bearing the funds of all 3 Tombs, one of them famous as the Tomb of King Philip the II, Father of Alexander the Great. Make your way inside the subterranean structure, accompanied by your guide, and feast your eyes on some of the most important objects, which once belonged to Philip II – the King’s shield adorned with ivory and gold the King’s gold-trimmed iron breastplate, Gold Diadems of unparalleled craftsmanship, the Golden Wreath of oak leaves, the gold plated collar and the Silver Burial Ums. Listen carefully, as your guide explains how inside the tomb of King Philip, a Golden Chest was discovered, containing the King’s bones, washed with wine and wrapped in purple cloth. After a short coffee break, we will drive toward the town of Kalambaka. Overnight at
Day 6 – KALAMBAKA – METEORA – ATHENS
Today we will visit the monasteries of Meteora. One of the most remarkable sites in Greece: a group of monasteries perched atop pinnacles of rock up to 600 meters high. A rare geological phenomenon, a quirk of nature as it were, created these looming rocks which thrust skywards from the plain of Thessaly as if striving to come closer to God. These peculiarly impressive natural sculptures are known as Meteora because they do indeed seem to hang or hover (meteoro in Greek) above the plain. Their summits totally isolated from the rest of the world were a refuge for many hermits from as early as the 11th century. Three hundred years later the first monasteries were founded. Access to the monasteries and settlements was made by ladder and rope.
Once we arrive at the monasteries you will admire the brickwork of Byzantine workmanship. The Churches house spectacular frescoes, ivory carvings, manuscripts, and the fine work of art previously supported by the Emperors at the time. Included in the tour is the visit to two monasteries, Grand Meteora or Varlaam Monasteries (depending on the day of the week) as well as the Monastery of Agios Stefanos (Nuns). *You are kindly requested to observe the strict clothing restrictions of the monasteries i.e. long skirts and covered shoulders for the ladies, and long trousers for men otherwise entrance will be denied*
After lunch, we will start our drive toward Athens. Overnight at hotel Stanley or similar.
Day 7 – ATHENS
On a tour to Athens, you will view many significant historical and archaeological monuments that date back to the Golden Age of Pericles, in the 5th century BC. During that time, the wealthy, newly democratic, and invigorated city-state decided to rebuild the Temples on top of the Acropolis in great splendor. Visit the Parthenon, dedicated to the Goddess Athena, a unique masterpiece of Greek Architecture. This monument is recognized as the culmination of Greek architecture and sculpture. Examine the Propylea , which blends Doric and Ionic building principles. Continue to the Temple of the Athena Nike (Wingless Victory) and the Erechtheum Temple, which was formerly used for cult worship and consists of three basic parts: the main Temple, the north extension, and the famous Porch of Maidens. Then you will enjoy a traditional lunch in a restaurant in the center of Athens. After lunch, you will have the chance to explore the new Acropolis Museum located across the hill of the Acropolis serving as a reminder to all visitors of the true greatness of 5th century Athens. Among its many important exhibits are the Caryatids (female sculptures acting as columns of the Erechtheion Temple), the Parthenon Gallery with the inner frieze, outer metopes, and pediments of the temple, and the statue of Artemis by Praxitelis. Next, view Mars Hill, where St. Paul preached Christianity. You will also be seeing the Ancient Agora, Tower of the Winds, Herodes Atticus Theater, Theater of Dionyssos, Temple of Zeus, see the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and the former Royal Palace which is now the House of Parliament. Continue to the University of Athens, the Academy of Athens, the National Library, and then to the “Panathenian” Olympic Stadium where the first modern Olympic Games were held in 1896. Overnight hotel Stanley or similar.
Day 8 – ATEHNS – CORINTH
Corinth (Argolis) Journey outside Athens to walk among the ancients in Corinth, a once rich and powerful city known for luxury and vice, and see the incredible Corinth Canal, which cut through miles of solid rock. Follow the sacred way which led to Eleusis, known in antiquity for its sanctuary of Demeter, whose legendary search for her daughter Persephone explained to the ancients the cause of the seasons. A modern highway takes you past olive fields and numerous small villages, including Megara, whose inhabitants colonized in Asia Minor under the leadership of Byzas and founded the city of Byzantium - which later gave its name to the Byzantine Empire. Driving along the coast leads to the majestic Corinth Canal, an engineering triumph century in the making. Nero, Rome's most infamous emperor, inaugurated one attempt in 67 AD with his golden spade, but it was the Greeks who finally conquered the steep rock in 1893. Prior to the canal, ships were dragged from the Ionian Sea to the Aegean Sea using a wooden road with special grooves greased with wax. Traces of the road can still be seen. Continue on to Ancient Corinth, a city blessed with a superb location, fertile plains, and a virtually impregnable refuge. Excavations reveal that the ancient city was huge and wealthy; a survivor of numerous invasions but devastated by earthquakes. See the Bema, where St. Paul was tried by the Roman Governor, and one of Corinth's most striking ancient buildings - the Temple of Apollo, seven of whose original 38 columns still stand. Walk through the remains of Market Place, a colonnaded square once surrounded by many small shops. See the celebrated Fountain of Priene, which has produced water from the earliest times, and Lechaion Road, formerly the main thoroughfare to the port of Lecaion. You will also be visiting the museum of Corinth. Overnight hotel Stanley or similar.
Day 9– Depart
Cruise Excursion:
Day 9 – Athens - Mykonos –free afternoon
Celebrate Mass at the Church of St. Paul in Piraeus. Transfer to Piraeus Harbor for 11 am boarding. Late afternoon, arrive at the beautiful island of Mykonos. Overnight sail to Kusadasi.
Day 10 - Kusadasi (excursion to Ephesus)/Patmos (excursion to Cave of St. John where he wrote the Apocalypse)
Arrive at Kusadasi, continue by coach to Ephesus, and explore the ruins of the ancient city. Celebrate Mass at Panaya Kapula (the House of the Virgin Mary) in Ephesus. Afternoon visit the island of Patmos and overnight sail to Rhodes.
Day 11 - Heraklion - free morning/Santorini
Arrive at Heraklion, and continue by coach to Knossos, the largest Bronze Age archaeological site, considered Europe's oldest city. Celebrate Mass on board. Enjoy the afternoon on the stunning island of Santorini, and the village of Fira perched high above the sea with a spectacular view.
Day 12 – Athens - Departure
Return to Athens around 06:00 am, disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport. (Breakfast on board)
DOWNLOAD BROCHURE AND APPLICATION
Trip Date: September 23 - October 04, 2023
Departure City: Denver, CO (other cities available)
Package Price: $4690.00
The package price includes the following:
Round-trip airline tickets
Three overnights in Thessaloniki (hotel Kapsis or similar)including breakfast daily
One overnight in Kalambaka (hotel Amalia or similar) including breakfast daily
Three overnights in Athens (hotel Stanley or similar) including breakfast daily
4-day cruise extension
Air-conditioned motor coach throughout all tours and transfers
Services of English-speaking professional, licensed guide for all sites and museums as per itinerary
Six lunches during tours include one soft drink or glass of wine per person
Welcome dinner in Thessaloniki includes house wine
Transfers from and to airports
Entrance fees as per itinerary
Road tolls and all applicable taxes
Guide and driver accommodation and meals
The package price does not include the following:
Tips to guide, driver, restaurants
Drinks during meals (except those specifically mentioned above)
Personal expenses of guests (telephones, laundry, room service, etc)
Anything not specifically mentioned in the included section
10 Day Pilgrimage, Holy Land from Denver, CO (DEN) - June 14-24, 2023 - Lead by Father James Spahn
10 Day Pilgrimage, Holy Land from Denver, CO (DEN) - June 14-24, 2023 - Lead by Father James Spahn
Day 1: Monday, Departure from Denver
Depart for your overnight flights to the Holy Land. Meals will be served on board.
Day 2: Tuesday, Arrive Tel Aviv, Transfer to Tiberius.
Arrive in Tel Aviv, meet your guide, and transfer to Tiberius. Dinner and overnight at hotel in Tiberius.
Day 3: Wednesday, Nazareth, Mount Tabor.
Nazareth, visiting the Basilica of the Annunciation, St. Joseph’s Church, and Mary’s well.
Cana of Galilee. Dinner and overnight at hotel in Tiberius.
Day 4: Thursday, Sea of Galilee
Mount Tabor. (Celebrate a Mass)
Tabgha, the site of the multiplication of the fishes and the loaves. (Celebrate a Mass)
The Mount of Beatitudes for a time of prayer and reflection.
Enjoy a meal of “St. Peter’s fish” and a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee. Dinner and overnight at hotel in Tiberius.
Day 5: Friday, Sea of Galilee
Caesarea Philippi.
(Celebrate a Mass)
Peter’s Primacy.
Jordan River. Dinner and overnight at hotel in Tiberius.
Day 6: Saturday, Cana of Galilee, Ein Karem, Emmaus
Mount Carmel. (Celebrate a Mass).
Depart to Jerusalem via Coastal Plains
Ein Karem. Dinner and overnight at the hotel in Bethlehem.
Day 7: Sunday, Dead Sea, Jericho, Bethany
Bethany, Lazarus tomb. (Celebrate a Mass)
Qumran, the site of the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls
Baptism site (Jordan River).
Visit Jericho, Zacchaeus tree old city and view mount of Temptation. Dinner and overnight at the hotel in Bethlehem.
Day 8: Monday, Bethlehem- Shepherd’s field
Shepherd’s Field in Beit Sahour.
The Church of the Nativity. (Celebrate a Mass).
Catherine church, the Grotto of St. Jerome, Milk Grotto.
The old city of Bethlehem. Dinner and overnight at the hotel in Bethlehem.
Day 9: Tuesday, Mt of Olives, Gethsemane
Panoramic view from the top of Mount of Olives.
Ascension Hill on the Mount of Olives.
The Church of Pater Noster.
The Church of Dominus Flevit.
The Garden of Gethsemane and the Church of All Nations. (Celebrate a Mass).
Zion and the Cenacle (Upper Room). Dinner and overnight in Bethlehem.
Day 10: Wednesday, Via Dolorosa, Holy Sepulcher
The Western Wall.
Anne’s Church, the Pools of Bethesda.
Walk the Via Dolorosa ending at the Church of the Holy Sepulchre. (Celebrate a Mass). Dinner and overnight in Bethlehem.
Day 11: Thursday, Departure
• Depart for airport for our flight home, we will arrive back in the USA the same day. Or take the optional extensions to Egypt.
OPTIONAL EGYPT EXTENSION
JUNE 24-28
Day 1: Egypt
Crossing Egypt at the Red Sea border town of Taba.
Transfer to St. Catherine for overnight.
Day 2: St. Catherine, Cairo.
Optional camel ride and climb up Mount Sinai in the early morning.
Full day tour of the Mt. Sinai area including St. Catherine’s Monastery, seeing the Well of Jethro.
En-route visit the Spring of Marah.
Dinner and overnight in Cairo.
Day 3: Cairo Pyramids -
Visit one of the Seven Wonders of the World, the Pyramids of Giza, and the Great Sphinx.
Visit the Coptic area to visit the Hanging churches.
Dinner and overnight in Cairo.
Day 4: Cairo, Egyptian Museum.
Visit the Egyptian Museum where we’ll find the greatest Collections of Egyptian antiquities
Free time to visit the famed Khan El-Khalili (bazaar).
Dinner and overnight in Cairo.
Day 5: Departure.
Depart for the airport for our flight home, we will arrive back in the USA the same day.
DOWNLOAD BROCHURE AND APPLICATION
Trip Date: June 14-24, 2023
Departure City: Denver, CO (DEN) (other cities available)
Holy Land Package Price: $4090.00
Optional Egypt Extention: $890.00
The package price includes the following:
Round Trip economy class airfare from departing airport(s)
Hotels on Hb Basis: 7 nights (open buffet breakfast, open buffet dinner)
Air-conditioned bus in Israel
Farewell dinner
English speaking guide
fees: Caesarea National Park, Capernaum, Tel Jericho, Pater Noster, St. Peter in Galicantu, St. Ann& Pool of Bethesda, Ecce homo, Ascension, Boat ride, Taxi Mt. Tabor, Qumran National Park.
Meeting and assistance at Arrival – Ben Gurion Airport
Porterage is included in all hotels
Parking fees where applicable
Whispers during the whole trip
Daily masses
Porterage at airport
Lunches
The package price does not include the following:
Personal expenses
Tips
Medical Insurance
Anything not mentioned above
Gratuities for guide/driver