Nativity Pilgrimage: Where Faith Meets Adventure

Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati (1901 - 1925)

To be canonized by Pope Francis on August 3, 2025

Join us for this incredible spiritual experience!

Pope Francis to canonize Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati in 2025

Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati (1901–1925) was a young Italian Catholic whose short life was marked by deep faith, vibrant joy, and a commitment to serving others. Born in Turin, Italy, into a prominent family, he grew up in a household of wealth and influence. Despite these privileges, Pier Giorgio’s heart was drawn to the poor and marginalized, embodying the Gospel values of charity and humility. A man of extraordinary zeal, Pier Giorgio combined a passion for adventure with a profound spiritual life. He was an avid mountaineer and skier, finding God in the beauty of nature. His love for the outdoors mirrored his vibrant approach to life, which he often shared with friends. He encouraged others to grow in faith, fostering a dynamic sense of community. Pier Giorgio’s devotion to the Eucharist and the Virgin Mary fueled his service. He was a member of various Catholic organizations, including the St. Vincent de Paul Society, dedicating himself to aiding the sick, the homeless, and those in need. His hidden acts of generosity revealed a soul deeply attuned to Christ’s call to love and serve. At just 24, Pier Giorgio succumbed to poliomyelitis, likely contracted from the people he served. His death revealed the breadth of his impact; thousands attended his funeral, from society’s elite to the poor he had helped. Beatified by Pope John Paul II in 1990, Pier Giorgio is celebrated as a modern model of holiness, showing that sanctity is attainable for everyone, especially young people.

Join us in 2025 for this incredible 9-day pilgrimage!

Embark on a profound 9-day pilgrimage through Italy, culminating in the historic canonization of Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati by Pope Francis on August 3, 2025. This spiritual journey begins in Milan, the vibrant heart of northern Italy and a city deeply connected to Frassati’s legacy as a devoted layman and tireless advocate for social justice. Pilgrims will explore the city’s majestic cathedrals and cultural treasures, reflecting on Frassati’s example of living faith in everyday life. From there, the pilgrimage weaves through Turin, Frassati’s birthplace, offering an intimate encounter with the places where his devotion and love for the poor took root. Participants will have the opportunity to venerate his tomb and pray for his intercession at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist.

As the journey continues, pilgrims will travel to Assisi, the land of St. Francis, to deepen their connection to the themes of humility and service that Pier Giorgio embodied. The pilgrimage concludes in Rome, where the anticipation builds for the canonization ceremony at St. Peter’s Basilica. On August 3, 2025, Pope Francis will elevate Pier Giorgio Frassati to sainthood, recognizing his remarkable life as a modern role model for young Catholics. After the ceremony, pilgrims will tour the Vatican and other significant holy sites, reflecting on the journey’s spiritual richness. This once-in-a-lifetime pilgrimage promises to inspire profound faith and a renewed commitment to living the Gospel with joy and courage.

Canonization of Pier Giorgio Frassati

July 27 – August 4, 2025

9-Day Pilgrimage starting at $4,599

July 27: Today marks the beginning of an exciting adventure! You’ll be boarding your international overnight flight to the captivating city of Milan, Italy! Everything has been thoughtfully organized for you, ensuring a smooth start to your journey. So, sit back, unwind, and let the anticipation of your spiritual exploration fill your heart!

July 28: Welcome to Milan, the heart of fashion and art! Upon arrival, meet our friendly tour guide and visit the stunning Duomo, a Gothic masterpiece. Explore the Basilica and Tomb of St. Ambrose, then gather for Mass at the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie. After our spiritual engagements, the rest of the day is yours to explore chic boutiques or the luxurious Galleria Vittorio Emanuele Arcade. Enjoy a delightful dinner and relax at your hotel, ready for the adventures ahead!

July 29: After breakfast, we’ll set off for the charming city of Padova, where we’ll celebrate Mass at the Basilica of St. Anthony of Padua. This serene place holds a special significance, and we can’t wait to share this moment with you. Once Mass concludes, spend your afternoon discovering Padova’s hidden gems at your own pace before we check into our cozy hotel. Enjoy a lovely dinner and a restful overnight stay in Padova!

July 30: Rise and shine! After breakfast, we’ll journey to the historic city of Siena, home to the breathtaking Siena Cathedral, a true jewel of Gothic architecture. Our visit will also take us to the Basilica de San Domenico, where the relics of St. Catherine of Siena rest. Later, we continue to Assisi, where you’ll savor a delightful dinner and unwind at your hotel, soaking in the serene atmosphere.

July 31: Today’s guided tour of Assisi will inspire you as we visit the Basilica and tomb of St. Francis, then take a leisurely stroll through this enchanting city. After basking in the rich spirit of Assisi, we’ll travel to San Giovanni Rotondo. Here, we’ll enjoy dinner together and have a comfortable overnight stay at our hotel.

August 1: After breakfast, we’ll begin our day at the Old Church, celebrating Mass in a place filled with deep historical significance. You’ll see the crucifix before which St. Pio experienced the stigmata, offering profound reflections on faith and spirituality. After a delightful lunch, we’ll make our way to the Eternal City—Rome! Later this evening, embark on an enchanting walking tour through the Pantheon, Spanish Steps, Piazza Navona, and Trevi Fountain. Enjoy dinner and a restful evening at your hotel, surrounded by the magic of Rome!

August 2: Today, we’ll embark on an awe-inspiring journey through the Holy Doors at the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls, one of Rome’s four major basilicas and the resting place of St. Paul, the Apostle. Afterward, we’ll explore the mysterious Catacombs before delving into Ancient Rome with a visit to the legendary Colosseum and Roman Forum. In the afternoon, we’ll walk through the Holy Doors of St. Mary Major and St. John Lateran. At day’s end, we’ll enjoy another delightful dinner and a peaceful night at our hotel.

August 3: We’re in for an early start as we head to St. Peter’s Square for the Canonization of Pier Giorgio Frassati! What a remarkable honor to witness this event! After the ceremony, we’ll tour the exquisite Vatican Museums and the breathtaking Sistine Chapel—a true feast for the senses. Enjoy another lovely dinner together, concluding this memorable day at our hotel.

August 4: This morning, we’ll transfer to the airport to embark on our return flight home, filled with cherished memories and newfound inspiration from our incredible journey through Italy!

WHAT’S INCLUDED

  • Round-trip airfare
  • Airport taxes/fuel surcharges
  • Ground Transportation
  • First-class hotels
  • Breakfast & dinner
  • Admission fees
  • Daily Mass
  • Professional tour guide
  • Complimentary medical insurance

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED

  • Trip cancellation insurance (available at an additional cost)
  • Passport & Visa costs
  • Tips for the tour manager, guide, and driver
  • Personal items/expenses
  • Meals not mentioned in program

REGISTERING

  • Submit registration form, passport copy, & non-refundable $300 deposit to Nativity Pilgrimage. You can also register online.
  • Names on the registration form & passport must match exactly.
  • Passports must be current up to 6 months after return date.
  • We are not responsible for Visa procurement.
  • Full payment is due 100 days before departure.

GET STARTED NOW

Contact us to book one of these incredible journeys, or contact one of our travel specialists to customize your own!

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