You don’t necessarily have to change your vacation plans to fit in a visit to a sacred site. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has an interactive map on its website that lists official diocesan Jubilee of Hope Pilgrimage Sites as designated by each local bishop. GoCatholic.org keeps a list of National Shrines as well as cathedrals, basilicas, world heritage churches, special churches and more. Find one near where you are already going, or search for a site that appeals to you. (Not able to travel this year? Many of these sites offer online services, virtual visits or have been featured on television shows or videos that can give you the experience of being there from the comfort of your home.)
While the beauty of summer is unscheduled time, you should take the time to plan your visit to a shrine or pilgrimage site to be certain you don’t miss the opportunity to fully participate in what can be a profound spiritual experience. Check their websites for seasonal hours, Mass and confession schedules and tours. Some churches may offer guided tours at specified times, have limited hours at certain times of the year or offer special services on feast days or Holy Days that are well worth planning a trip around.