HARTFORD, Conn. (January 8, 2013) – The Archdiocese of Hartford is planning a ten-day pilgrimage to Italy led by Archbishop Henry J. Mansell from May 20-29, as a way to commemorate the Year of Faith initiated by Pope Benedict XVI this past October.
Archbishop Mansell has a personal connection with the Eternal City where he was ordained 50 years ago. He will lead the pilgrimage through the historic and most significant sacred sites in Rome, Vatican City, Orvieto, Assisi, Siena, Florence, Pisa, Padua and Venice.
“I hope that this pilgrimage will address the spiritual convictions of all who participate,” said the Archbishop.
The pilgrimage will begin in Rome where visitors will stay for three days. On May 22nd, visitors will join the faithful from around the world at a papal audience with the Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI at Saint Peter’s Square. They will marvel at the breathtaking sights of: Michelangelo’s Moses in the Church of Saint Peter in Chains, the Sistine Chapel, and the Colosseum, and Roman Forum. Masses will be celebrated daily at different churches, including Rome’s four major basilicas: St. Peter, St. Mary Major, St. Paul Outside the Walls and St. John Lateran.
On May 24th, the pilgrimage will travel north to Oriento, a medieval town known for its famed Cathedral, gothic masterpiece, and for the occurrence of a 14th century Eucharistic miracle at St. Christina’s Church. The next stop will be Assisi where sightseers will visit Our Lady of the Angels Church and other historic sites. On May 25th, there will be a brief stop in Siena, home of Saint Catherine, Doctor of the Church, followed by two days in Florence, where the pilgrimage will include a tour of various landmarks including Giotto’s Bell Tower, the Cuomo and the Baptistery and the Main Square.
Stops in Pisa and Padua will take place on May 27th to witness the leaning tower of Pisa, followed by a trip to Venice, the city of canals and gondolas. In Venice, St. Mark’s Square, St. Mark Basilica and Doges Palace, are among the sites that will be visited. There will be an overnight stay in Venice.
Free time for shopping and dining will be set aside during the trip.
Roundtrip airfare, first class hotel accommodations, guided tours, daily breakfast and seven dinners will be included in the package based on double occupancy.
Visit: the archdioces website for the specific itinerary, cost, and other details. Reservations and a deposit are required by Friday, January 18, 2013.
Contact
Maria Zone
860- 541-6491 ext. 127
