'Journey in Faith' kicks off Year of Faith
Last Updated on Thursday, 11 October 2012 13:33 08 October 2012
Come along on a Marian pilgrimage to France Oct. 8-19
CHARLOTTE —Join us on a virtual pilgrimage – a "Journey in Faith" – as staff writer SueAnn Howell accompanies more than 40 men, women and children from the Diocese of Charlotte on a Marian pilgrimage to France Oct. 8 -19.
These pilgrims, many of them whom have never been to France, hope to deepen their faith and their love of Jesus Christ, the Blessed Mother and the saints on this 11-day pilgrimage to religious sites all around the country known as "the eldest daughter of the Church."
The virtual pilgrimage is online at: triptofrance.tumblr.com.
Each day learn something more about the people and places of the Church in France, and the devotions they inspired – all with the aim of experiencing a conversion of heart, a turning back to God and entering into a deeper relationship with Him.
The shrines, basilicas and cathedrals on the itinerary are renowned for their beauty and historical significance in the growth and development of the Church. They include the Basilica of St. Denis, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Basilica of Sacre-Coeur, Sainte Chappelle, the Chapel of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal and Chartres Cathedral.
Some saints the pilgrims will encounter along the way include: St. Denis, St. Catherine Laboure, St. Thérèse, St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, St. John Vianney, Blessed Claude de Colombiere and St. Bernadette.
The pilgrims will weave their way via bus and train from Paris to the cities of Liseux, Ars, Paray-le-Monial, Orleans and Mont-St.-Michel, ending their pilgrimage at the healing waters of Lourdes.
At every stop along the way, read all about the pilgrims' experiences and learn more about the religious sites and the saints they encounter. As a 'virtual pilgrim,' pray along with us during the journey and offer your own prayer intentions at Lourdes.
Come along with us on this virtual pilgrimage to France as we journey "to Jesus through Mary."