“The complete focus of our trip was on God. I loved having daily Mass and prayer without trying to “fit it in,” but instead it was the biggest part of my day. By attending the canonization, I realized what it means to be a part of a universal church while we stood there surrounded by people from all over the world. I have noticed that since returning home, I have been more open to making God a part of every single part of my day and openly talking about Him with my friends as I wouldn’t have done before.” - Kacey Frenzel ’19, pictured with her sister Maria Frenzel ’15 and mother Pam Frenzel “Our Blessed Mother Mary has always been my hero. So the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, which holds a relic of the Holy Manger of Christ, was dearest to me. But I also feel especially blessed to have walked through each Holy Door in this Year of Mercy. I paused before I crossed through each Holy Door, ready to feel the presence of each saint come alive, inspiring me to ask for the gracious mercy of our Lord upon myself and all those I love. This journey is forever embedded in my heart.” - Leona Chianello, Guerin Catholic Registrar We also made pilgrimage to Assisi, where we had Mass at such places as the tomb of St. Francis, the tomb of St. Clare, and the Church of San Damiano where he received his call from Christ to “rebuild my Church, which has fallen into ruin.” A highlight in Assisi was crossing paths with Guerin Catholic alumnus Gino Carnevale ’13, who joined the group for Mass. The beauty of the Umbrian countryside, along with the blessed places of the life of St. Francis, brought a true peace and joy over the entire group. Although we had secured tickets, we decided to wake up early and be in line by 3 am on Sunday, September 4 to ensure that we would have a spot in St. Peter’s Square for the canonization Mass. The day was hot and the wait was long, but none of that mattered when Pope Francis, seated on the Papal chair, proclaimed to the throngs of pilgrims that Mother Teresa was now counted among the saints. The students, staff, and parents who took part in the canonization pilgrimage returned home to Guerin Catholic inspired by the impact of the life of St. Teresa of Calcutta, and by the warmth and enthusiasm of our Holy Father, Pope Francis. There really is nothing more attractive than holiness! GC Pilgrimage
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