Eternal Wisdom: A Holy Year Pilgrimage for Catholic Thinkers
Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime journey to Italy during the 2025 Holy Year, where you’ll experience the beauty, history, and spirituality of some of the most iconic sites in Rome and beyond. This carefully curated itinerary will immerse you in the rich heritage of Italy, with visits to holy sanctuaries, ancient landmarks, and vibrant towns that are filled with unforgettable moments of faith and discovery.
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Pilgrimage Director: Mr. Adam Green
Adam will prepare the group for this special pilgrimage with pre-departure materials on a dedicated webpage and daily mini-seminars during the tour to enrich you spiritually and intellectually.
Learn More Here
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Day 1 ✠Wednesday – July 16, 2025
Head to your local airport and board your overnight flight(s). Your journey to Italy for the 2025 Holy Year begins now—embrace this once-in-a-lifetime pilgrimage!
Day 2 ✠Thursday – July 17, 2025
From Rome Fiumicino airport, we travel by road to the fabled medieval hill town of Assisi. Assisi is one of Italy’s most famous pilgrimage sites and the birthplace of Saint Francis. This evening, settle into your accommodations in Assisi and begin exploring. The group will enjoy an early dinner together before heading to bed to recover from jet lag. (D)
Day 3 ✠Friday – July 18, 2025
The beautiful UNESCO World Heritage town of Assisi awaits us today. St. Francis of Assisi is one of the most beloved saints in the world, and today, you will journey in his footsteps. With our guide, we’ll explore the magnificent Basilica of Saint Francis, visit Saint Francis's birthplace, discover Saint Clare's Basilica, and stroll through Piazza del Comune, the lively main city square featuring the ancient Minerva Temple. Tonight a special Umbrian feast will introduce you to regional specialities. (B, D).
Day 4 ✠Saturday – July 19, 2025
We’ll begin our day by traveling from Assisi to Rome, the Eternal City. Upon arrival, our afternoon will be dedicated to exploring Ancient Rome. Marvel at the Colosseum and Roman Forum, iconic landmarks that reveal the grandeur of the Roman Empire. We’ll also visit the Circus Maximus, the ancient chariot racing stadium with stunning views of Palatine Hill. This evening, we’ll check into our hotel, Il Cantico, located near the Vatican. After you get settled into your room kick off the evening with a warm welcome reception where you’ll enjoy light refreshments, and settle into the spirit of the journey ahead during your days in Rome. This is the perfect time to relax, connect, and get to know the group better before dinner. After dinner, we’ll enjoy a peaceful night walk in the area surrounding the Vatican to soak in the serene beauty of the city by night. (B, D)
Day 5 ✠Sunday – July 20, 2025
Today begins with Sunday Mass at Santa Maria in Sassia, followed by the opportunity to witness the Papal Angelus Address in St. Peter’s Square at noon. Afterward, we’ll explore St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the most awe-inspiring churches in the world. Take time to admire Michelangelo’s Pietà and, if you wish, climb to the top of the dome for an unforgettable view of Rome. The rest of the evening will allow us to reflect on the day and rest in preparation for tomorrow. Tonight dinner will be on your own. You can stay close to the hotel or join a group to explore the vibrant neighborhood of Trastevere, known for its charming streets, lively atmosphere, and authentic Roman cuisine. (B, ID)
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Day 6 ✠Monday – July 21, 2025
This morning, we’ll head to St. Paul Outside the Walls, one of the four major basilicas of Rome, along with its peaceful monastery. In the evening, we’ll embark on a delightful walking tour to visit some of Rome’s most famous landmarks, including the Spanish Steps, the dazzling Trevi Fountain, and other nearby sites that come alive under the soft glow of night. Don’t forget to toss a coin into the fountain to ensure your return to Rome! Tonight there will be a special dinner to introduce you to the culinary traditions of Rome. (B, D)
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Day 7 ✠Tuesday – July 22, 2025
Our day will focus on two more of the Major Basilicas of Rome. First, we’ll visit St. John Lateran, the Pope’s official cathedral, and then cross the street to see the Holy Steps, believed to be the steps Jesus ascended during his trial. Next, we’ll visit the Basilica of San Clemente, located near the Colosseum. This church is renowned for its layers of history, with a 4th-century church beneath the current basilica, a 1st-century Mithraic temple, and impressive medieval frescoes. In the afternoon, we’ll head to St. Mary Major, where we’ll admire its intricate mosaics and rich history. This evening dinner is on your own. (B, ID)
Day 8 ✠Wednesday – July 23, 2025
Today we’ll explore Ignatian Rome, following in the footsteps of St. Ignatius of Loyola. We’ll visit the Church of St. Ignatius, the Ignatian Apartments and the Church of the Gesù to learn about the origins of the Jesuit order. In the afternoon, we’ll discover more of Rome’s historical treasures, including the Altare della Patria in Piazza Venezia, and visit the iconic Pantheon, one of the best-preserved buildings of ancient Rome. Prepare to be amazed by the history surrounding you. This evening, enjoy free time to explore Campo de' Fiori, a lively square brimming with dining options. From cozy trattorias serving authentic Roman dishes like carbonara and cacio e pepe to modern eateries and vibrant pizzerias, you’ll find something to satisfy every craving. Be sure to soak in the bustling atmosphere, with street performers and markets adding to the charm of this historic piazza. (B, ID)
Note: There usually are no Papal Audiences in July, but Pope Francis held them during the Year of Mercy in 2016. If one is scheduled, we will rearrange the days to fit it in.
Day 9 ✠Thursday – July 24, 2025
Today, we delve into the inspiring history of early Christianity with a visit to the Roman Catacombs, where early Christians sought refuge and left behind powerful symbols of their faith. These sacred underground burial sites offer a glimpse into the courage and devotion of the Church’s first followers. Next, we’ll journey to the Abbazia delle Tre Fontane, the site of St. Paul’s martyrdom. According to legend, three springs miraculously appeared where his head struck the ground after his execution, commemorating his profound sacrifice. The afternoon is yours to explore or shop for last-minute souvenirs before we gather for a special farewell dinner with excellent Roman dishes and a carefully selected wine pairing. (B, D)
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Day 10 ✠Friday – July 25, 2025
This morning, we’ll transfer to Rome’s Fiumicino Airport to begin our journey home. As we depart, reflect on the incredible memories made during this Holy Year pilgrimage. Hopefully, a coin tossed into the Trevi Fountain ensures that you’ll return to Italy one day. Safe travels!
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Additional Extras:
Free: One morning, you’ll have the unique opportunity to attend a private Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica before it opens to the public. Scheduled for 7:00 a.m. on a designated day in Rome, this special experience allows you to witness the basilica in its serene and sacred beauty, undisturbed by the usual crowds of tourists.
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For an additional fee: For those interested, we can arrange an optional visit to the Vatican Museums for an additional fee. Since our accommodations are nearby, it will be easy to schedule this opportunity. While it’s not included in the general group itinerary due to past feedback about the large crowds and the physically demanding nature of the tour, this visit is an extraordinary experience for those who choose to go. The Vatican Museums house an unparalleled collection of art and history, culminating in a visit to the breathtaking Sistine Chapel, home to Michelangelo's iconic frescoes. It’s a chance to immerse yourself in some of the world's most celebrated masterpieces.
OR you can stay in Italy for 5 more days...
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​Dining Codes:
B = Breakfast
D = Dinner
ID = Independent Dinner​​​
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Tour Cost: $3299 + Airfare
Tour Cost: $2999 + Airfare until 1/15/2025
The cost is based on double-occupancy.
Single Rooms are available for a $600 supplement.
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Please note: Maximum Group Size of Participants is 36 people. Tours are likely to sell out.
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Airfare
Airfare is not included in the land package, as its cost fluctuates frequently. For most travelers, airfare typically ranges from $1,100 to $1,500, depending on your departure city. We have groups departing from Orlando (MCO), Cleveland (CLE), and Fort Myers (RSW). If there are additional travelers from your city, we can create other travel groups as needed. Travelers from all other cities will be booked on major carriers (e.g., United, American, Aer Lingus) in economy class, with one checked bag allowed (up to 50 pounds). To ensure you receive the best possible pricing, we will pass on the actual cost of airfare and work to secure the best deal for you. Additionally, we are happy to assist in booking Business or First Class options upon request.
Grants for those Involved in Ministry and Religious & Theological Studies:
We are delighted to offer a special $300 grant toward the cost of your trip for those involved in ministry, enrolled in graduate programs in theology, or serving as clergy or religious. Thanks to the generosity of an angel donor, this contribution reflects our commitment to making this pilgrimage accessible to those dedicated to faith and service. To claim this discount, simply enter the code A.M.D.G.25 during online registration and provide details about where you study or how you qualify. This will be applied to your final payment. Don’t miss this meaningful opportunity!
Payment deadlines:
1. $1000 Deposit due at time of registration
$700 - WITH THE $300 DISCOUNT FOR PEOPLE WHO REGISTER BY JANUARY 15, 2025
2. Friday, March 14, 2025 - $1500 is due / +$500 if the Sorrento Extension is chosen
3. Friday, May 16, 2025- $799 + Airfare is due. / + the final balance due for the Sorrento Extension if chosen
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What is included?
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Group transfers and all ground transportation
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2 nights' accommodation at a 3-4 star hotel in Assisi (TBA)
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5 nights' accommodation at Hotel Il Cantico in Rome in double rooms
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All Entrance Fees
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All Excursion Fees
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8 breakfasts
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5 dinners
What's not included?
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Airfare
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Lunch and 3 independent dinners
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Drinks with dinner
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Tip for bus driver and guide
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Single room supplement
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Travel Insurance or Trip Protection (Click Here for More Information)
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What if I want to come earlier or stay later?
Would you like to extend your stay, arriving earlier or departing later? Let us know during registration if you’d like to adjust your travel dates, and, pending availability, we can modify your airline reservations. Please note that additional fees will apply.
How do I sign-up?
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The registration process is completed online. Click "Register Here" to sign-up!
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