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Sacred Paths: A Joyful Pilgrimage to Rome and Beyond

Join us for a memorable journey to Italy during the 2025 Holy Year, led by the dynamic and welcoming Fr. Hugo, a Colombian Jesuit fluent in both English and Spanish. This pilgrimage invites everyone to explore the beauty, history, and spirituality of Rome and beyond. With a thoughtfully designed itinerary, you’ll visit sacred sites, iconic landmarks, and charming towns, creating moments of faith, connection, and joy that will stay with you for a lifetime.

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Pilgrimage Director: Fr. Hugo Gomez-Sevilla, S.J.

Join Fr. Hugo on a transformative journey during the 2025 Jubilee Year to deepen your faith, with insights from Ignatian Spirituality, while exploring the rich heritage of our Catholic tradition.
Learn More Here

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Day 1 ✠ Monday, August 4, 2025
The long-anticipated pilgrimage begins today as you board your overnight flight(s) from your local airport. The path to Italy for the 2025 Holy Year is now open before you—get ready for an extraordinary journey of faith, discovery, and spiritual enrichment that will leave you forever changed. Let the adventure of a lifetime unfold!

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Day 2 ✠ Tuesday, August 5, 2025
Welcome to Rome, "The Eternal City." Upon arrival, you’ll be warmly greeted and transferred to your hotel. After a short break to unpack and settle in, you’re just a 10-minute walk from the heart of Vatican City. We’ll visit the iconic St. Peter’s Basilica, where Michelangelo’s Pietà awaits you in all its splendor. If you’re feeling adventurous, ascend the 551 steps to the top of the dome for breathtaking panoramic views of the city stretching out before you.

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The afternoon is yours to explore Rome’s vibrant streets at your own pace, or simply unwind before our evening reception. Join your fellow pilgrims for a welcoming gathering, complete with light refreshments including wine and beer. It’s the perfect time to connect with new friends and set the tone for the unforgettable days ahead. Dinner will be shared together, followed by rest to prepare for another day of awe-inspiring exploration. (B, D)

 

Day 3 ✠ Wednesday, August 6, 2025
This morning, take a short stroll from your hotel to the magnificent St. Peter’s Square. Here, you’ll witness a once-in-a-lifetime moment—an audience with Pope Francis himself. Stand in the splendor of Bernini's grand piazza, surrounded by pilgrims from across the globe, as you experience the heart of the Catholic Church like never before.

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This afternoon, we’ll immerse ourselves in the profound legacy of St. Ignatius of Loyola and the Jesuit order at the Church of the Gesù. Visit the tomb of St. Ignatius and the resting place of Fr. Pedro Arrupe. Here, you will also have the unique opportunity to explore the Ignatian Apartments. Mass will be celebrated in the very space where St. Ignatius once lived, prayed, and shaped the future of the Jesuit order.

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​Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the lively Campo de' Fiori, a bustling square brimming with Roman charm, where history and modern life come together in perfect harmony. Tonight, indulge in an exquisite Roman dinner, featuring traditional pastas that celebrate the region’s culinary artistry, perfectly complemented by a carefully selected wine pairing. After your meal, join us for a serene night walk past St. Peter’s Square, where the tranquil glow of the city lights and the peaceful ambiance of the Eternal City by night will leave a lasting impression. (B, D)

 

Day 4 ✠ Thursday, August 7, 2025
Step back into the grandeur of Ancient Rome today. Visit the awe-inspiring Colosseum, not only a symbol of Roman might but also a place where early Christian martyrs bore witness to their faith. Continue on to the Roman Forum, the bustling center of political and social life in the Roman Empire, and take in the sweeping views from Palatine Hill and the Circus Maximus. Your journey then takes you to the Basilica of Saint Mary in Cosmedin, home to the legendary Bocca della Verità, made famous in Roman Holiday. 
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For those wishing to further explore Rome’s beauty, join an optional night walking tour of the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, and other famed landmarks. Don’t forget to toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain, ensuring your return to this enchanting city. (B, D)

 

Day 5 ✠ Friday, August 8, 2025
Today, we delve deep into the early Christian history of Rome. Explore the Roman Catacombs, ancient burial sites that also served as sanctuaries for early Christians during times of persecution. As you traverse the labyrinth of tunnels adorned with early Christian art, reflect on the enduring faith and courage of those who lived in secret, protecting the faith that would shape the world.

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Next, we visit St. Paul Outside the Walls, one of Rome’s four major basilicas, built over the tomb of St. Paul. Admire the stunning mosaics and majestic columns, and experience a moment of peace in the basilica’s tranquil cloisters. The basilica also features a remarkable display of medallions honoring every pope throughout history, tied to the mysterious Prophecy of St. Malachy—a powerful blend of faith and legend.

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This afternoon is free for personal exploration, shopping, or relaxation. For those eager to continue exploring, an optional visit to the Vatican Museums awaits. Discover masterpieces from across the ages and stand in awe of the Sistine Chapel’s ceiling, painted by Michelangelo himself. (B, ID)

 

Day 6 ✠ Saturday, August 9, 2025
Today, we delve deeper into Rome’s spiritual and historical heart with visits to two of its most revered basilicas. Begin at St. John Lateran, the Pope’s official cathedral, a monumental masterpiece and the seat of the Bishop of Rome. Nearby, we’ll visit the Holy Steps, believed to be the very steps Jesus ascended during His trial before Pontius Pilate, offering a profound moment of reflection.

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In the afternoon, we’ll journey to St. Mary Major, one of Rome’s oldest and most exquisite churches. Renowned for its breathtaking mosaics and the relic of the Nativity, this basilica holds a special place in the Catholic tradition. It was here that Pope Francis prayed quietly in gratitude immediately after his election, imbuing the site with a sense of contemporary reverence and connection. Today promises to be a deeply moving experience, as you walk in the footsteps of history and contemplate the incredible legacy of the Church.

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As evening falls, we’ll head to the enchanting neighborhood of Trastevere, a maze of cobblestone streets lined with ivy-draped buildings and illuminated by golden streetlights. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and old-world charm, Trastevere is the soul of Rome at night. Here, you’ll savor an authentic Roman meal, paired with excellent wines, in a lively trattoria. As the evening unfolds, soak in the spirited ambiance of this pedestrian-friendly district, where history and modernity blend seamlessly, creating an unforgettable end to your day.

(B, D)

 

Day 7 ✠ Sunday, August 10, 2025
Begin your day with a spiritually enriching Sunday Mass at Santa Maria in Sassia, a beloved church for English-speaking pilgrims visiting the Vatican. Afterward, join us at St. Peter’s Square for the Papal Angelus Address, where you’ll reflect on the Holy Father’s message. The afternoon is yours to explore the hidden gems of Rome, shop for souvenirs, or simply relax and soak in the city’s timeless charm.

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In the evening, gather for a Special Going Away Dinner, paired with exquisite wines to celebrate your remarkable journey. (B, D)

 

Day 8 ✠ Monday, August 11, 2025
After a final breakfast together, we’ll transfer to Rome’s Fiumicino Airport to begin your journey home. As you board your flight, take a quiet moment to reflect on the life-changing experiences of this Holy Year pilgrimage—the profound moments of spiritual renewal, the awe-inspiring sights, and the deep connections forged along the way. Carry these memories with you, knowing they will resonate in your heart for years to come. And as you leave, remember the magic of the Trevi Fountain—perhaps with a coin tossed into its waters, ensuring that one day, you’ll return to the Eternal City. (B)

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Additional Extras:

Free: One morning, you’ll have the unique opportunity to attend a private Mass with Fr. Hugo 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.  We will offer this at a later time.


OR you can stay in Italy for a few more days...
 

Optional Extension to the Heart of Italy: Imagine spending a few extra days in Assisi, Montepulciano, and Cortona.

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​Dining Codes:

B = Breakfast

D = Dinner

ID = Independent Dinner​​​

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Tour Cost: $2999 + Airfare

Tour Cost: $2799 + 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 21, 2025 - $1000 is due  / +$500 if the Heart of Italy Extension is chosen

3.     Friday, June 27, 2025- $999 + Airfare is due.  / + the final balance due for the Heart of Italy Extension if chosen

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What is included?

  • Group transfers and all ground transportation

  • 6 nights' accommodation at Hotel Il Cantico in Rome in double rooms

  • All Entrance Fees 

  • All Excursion Fees

  • All breakfasts

  • 5 dinners with wine pairings

 

What's not included?

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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?

  • The registration process is completed online.  Click "Register Here" to sign-up!

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