From: Sister MARY IWEANYA

Sent: Sunday, June 14, 2009 12:17 AM
To: milanka@206tours.com
Subject: 206 Pilgrimage tour

My name is Sister Mary Iweanya of the Daughters of Divine Love. I am one of the pilgrims of May 10th - 19th , 2009 Pilgrimage with 206 Tour led by Monsignor Kenneth Steffen

I wish to cease this opportunity to express my feelings about the pilgrimage. It was  an experience of  a lifetime for me which I will always remember and cherish for the rest of my life. With Monsignor as our spiritual leader for the pilgrimage it brings to light when Christ was on earth with His disciples He went about doing good, curing peoples' diseases, listening to them and making their concerns His.  Monsignor was just exactly like that for us the pilgrims. We were  nourished with the word of Christ with his daily mass and Homily. He was able to to reach out to all races by our daily participation  in the Rosary in different languages of the pilgrims. Each and every one of us were  celebrated in our own specific vocation in life. The two consecrated nuns among the pilgrims were remembered in a very special way. The couples and the singles were also celebrated in a very special way. In fact each day of the pilgrimage was a day of thanksgiving to God. Monsignor also extended his goodness even to the beggars in the streets of Lourdes and  Fatima.  In fact there is  something in him that attracted  people to him because all the while on pilgrimage, people from different parts of the world were streaming to him for blessing, advice and the Sacrament especially that of reconciliation. The Pilgrimage programs and sacramentals he gave from his own pocket allowed us to recollect upon our beautiful pilgrimage. We the pilgrims  in his group all felt like brothers and sisters from the same womb.

Our pilgrimage guide Juan Carlos also is a very wonderful man. He has the patience of Job and he was able to put up with us  for those ten days. With that we, the Pilgrims named him Saint  Juan Carlos of Salamanca. I wish at this point to recommend Monsignor Kenneth Steffen  as the leader for many more pilgrimages because he is a wonderful spiritual leader.

Thank you for giving me an opportunity of a life time to travel with your wonderful 206 Pilgrimage Group.  I will never forget it and I will pray for you and your pilgrimage ministry.

Sister Mary, DDL

From: Jeffery Bennis
Sent: Sunday, June 14, 2009 8:43 PM
To: Rinda Kanidinc
Subject: Re: Lourdes- MAY

The Tour guide did a fantastic job. Jesus was his real name. He went out of the way for everyone. He is from Spain. I would highly recommend him again

From: LINDA PIETRASZEK
Sent: Wednesday, June 10, 2009 8:52 AM
To: Rinda Kanidinc
Subject: Re: Greece: In the Footsteps of St. Paul - MAY


DEAR RINDA, IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF ST.PAUL PILGRIMAGE.
THIS WONDERFUL HOLY AND PRAYERFUL TRIP HAS MADE A POWEFUL IMPACT ON MY PRAYER LIFE. FR. JOHN TINO WAS A GIFT TO US ALL. WE WERE VERY BLESSED ON THIS PILGRIMAGE. MASS EVERYDAY PRAISE GOD. ALL THE GUIDES WERE EXCELLENT AND OUR CONNECTING FLIGHTS WERE EASY TO REACH. PENNY ABB WAS SUCH A VERY GOOD FRIEND... MAY GOD BLESS HER, AS WELL AS THE OTHER PILGRIMS LIKE FAMILY . THIS JOURNEY TO GREECE AND TURKEY WAS THE BEST EVER. THANK YOU 206 TOURS FOR ALL THAT YOU DO FOR PEOPLE.
PEACE AND PRAYERS LINDA PIETRASZEK

From: M. Garcia
Sent: Tuesday, June 09, 2009 10:57 PM
To: Kanidinc Rinda; Meyer, stefanie
Subject: Fatima, Lourdes and Spain, May '09

Hello Rinda and Stefanie.
I am a little late in sending this to you, but I just wish to thank you for giving us the opportunity to enjoy such a wonderful pilgrimage to Fatima, Lourdes and Spain last month - May 10-19. My mother and I can't say enough about how much we enjoyed ourselves; everything about the trip was first rate: the organization, the transportation, the hotels.
We must commend our tour guide, Juan Carlos, who kept us on schedule, was very helpful with answering questions, and was very friendly and up beat.
Most of all, we were absolutely thankful for our spiritual director, Msgr. Kenneth Steffen, who was, in our opinion, truly a blessing to be with on our pilgrimage. He is such a kind and generous person who made each one of us feel special. His outgoing and caring personality shone throughout our trip. He was the key that brought everything and everyone together because he let us know that God was with us, present in each one of us. We pray that our paths will cross again.
This pilgrimage was a blessed experience which we will never forget. Looking forward to the next one!
Thank you,
Maria and Teresita Garcia
Edison, NJ

From: J. Nobles
Sent: Tuesday, June 09, 2009 3:11 PM
To: Rinda Kanidinc
Subject: Re: Greece - May

our 206 fr coryer trip to greece may 1 thru 11 was absolutely marvelous. even the daily reading at mass were st paul in the venue that we ourselves were visiting!!! it was spiritually moving. our guide john ventiroso was exceptionally knowledgeable and shared all this wisdom with us every step of the way, we also loved our bus driver, petras who always had a smile for us. thank you for a memorable trip and yes i'd certainly like to go with your group again.

love jeannine nobles

From: Mike Regan
Sent: Tuesday, June 09, 2009 3:08 PM
To: rinda@206tours.com
Subject: Re: Greece: In the Footsteps of St. Paul - MAY

Dear Rinda;
I had a very good Pilgrimage in Greece. I would like to say it was one of the best trips I have experienced. Fr John was great (the best) with Mass every day and his homilities were right on.. Everyone in the group was very friendly and considerate of each other. Penny was a great group leader.. Everything was excellent; the people, the hotels, the guide Athena, the bus driver, and even the weather.. Thank you very much for everything..
Sincerely, Mike Regan

From: Fr. Nicholas Zientarski
Sent: Monday, June 08, 2009 9:55 AM
To: Rinda Kanidinc
Subject: France pilgrimage

Dear Rinda,

Just wanted to send a quick note that the pilgrimage to France went very very well and we were all very blessed by God in many ways throughout this past week. I'll give a more detailed review when I get more settled, but for now know that everything went extremely well. God bless and be well.

-Fr. Nick Zientarski

From: Paul Miozza
Sent: Friday, June 05, 2009 7:26 PM
To: stefanie Meyer
Subject: Fatima, Spain and Lourdes - May

Hi Stefanie,

Wow!!! Best vacation ever, that's all we kept saying, so I said to my wife how can we pray every minute of the day and say this is the best vacation ever. Answer ------ Monsignor Kenneth C. Steffen - most holy man we ever met. What a spiritual leader - he should be a bishop. Without preaching, he explained things that we heard all our lives but never understood. He passed out pamphlets and religious cards that emphasized what the itinerary was for that day. He gave blessing to individuals, to singles, to those who were widowed, to member of religious orders. And renewed marriage vows (which was a highlight of the trip). He never left anyone out, what a caring and compassionate man. Please let us know when Monsignor Steffen does another trip because we are very interested in going with him again. He generates a lot of love from Christ. He kept us happy all the time.

Carlos the driver was great. Juan Carlos our tour guide, who we appointed as Saint Carlos on the last night, was better than a mother hen. . He kept his eyes on all 29 of us. He is definitely in the right profession. He is patient, caring and did all the worrying for everyone. He made sure we were happy all the time.

Now for the tour - Imagine 300,000 people gathered at Fatima, Portugal to celebrate the anniversary of the Blessed Virgin Mary appearing to three children. Then visit where they lived, where they are buried and everywhere in between. Imagine seeing the beautiful cathedral/churches of Spain. Let's celebrate Mass in the chapel of St Ignatius home. Imagine Lourdes, France where 17,000 members of the military from around the world gathered. We were greeted by 40 of them from the United States Armed Forces. Why don't we take a healing bath? Pray at the Grotto where Our Lady appeared to St Bernadette, visit all the places in between. We did!!!

Could we be lucky enough to celebrate daily mass at all these wonderful churches and have this very holy man lead you. Yes, Monsignor Kenneth C. Steffen

How about the 29 tourists who were all complete strangers when we began this pilgrimage, and after just 10 days together, we are all now special friends in Christ. Credit - Monsignor Kenneth C. Steffen and Juan Carlos.

It was sad when most of us parted after Lourdes.

My wife and I continued on to Medjugorje. We stayed at Family Pansion of Ivanka & Natasa Pandza. She was a great host and a fabulous cook. She was extremely caring and make sure we always had more than enough to eat. We would love to stay there again.

Our tour guide Snjezana Zovko (snow white) was fabulous she took us on tour each day. We climb Apparition Hill (twice) and Cross Mountain. We attended daily mass and said the rosary at St James Church. The highlight of our visit was on the last night at 10:00 PM we climbed Apparition Hill. We were present when the Blessed Virgin Mary appeared to the visionary Ivan.
We could not see Mary, but we could definitely feel her presence.
This was the best tour of our life - thanks 206 tours. We thought at time it took longer than necessary to receive our documentation. We would like to especially thank Stephanie Meyer for all her hard work in keeping our stress level low, and getting us advance seating on our flights. She has chosen the right job and is an excellent customer service person. We think she deserve a pay raise.

Thanks Reverend Monsignor Kenneth C. Steffen (keep us informed of your trips). Thanks Carlos and Juan Carlos. Thanks Natasa and Snow White. Special thanks to all of the 29 tourists who became our friends.

Love to all Pauline and Paul Miozza

From: Mr. and Mrs. Mays
Date: Sat, 30 May 2009 09:27:52 -0400
To: Rinda Kanidinc<rinda@206tours.com>; <stefanie@206tours.com>
Subject: Re: Fatima, Spain, Lourdes and Rome - May

This pilgrimage was amazing! Our spiritual director, Monsignor Kenneth Steffen, was one of the holiest priests my husband and I have ever met. He always had time to speak with and care for those in our group, as well as, strangers that we met along the way! He made sure that all of us had a special blessing during the trip in a very special way. I loved that he said Mass even on the day of arrival after a long day/night of travel! He must have spent many hours preparing for this pilgrimage. Monsignor appeared to be tireless! Such energy and so caring! Even though we spent only eight days with him, I feel like I have known him for ever. I pray it is God's will that I get to go on another pilgrimage with him again!

Juan Carlos Tejeda was an excellent tour guide. He took care of us like we were family. In fact, we adopted him and by the end of the trip, we all decided he should be canonized St. Juan Carlos of Salamanca. He kept us all on schedule and organized, in spite of ourselves. And he was very knowledgeable about all of the places we visited and I appreciated the movies he provided while en route. We wish him much success and hope our paths cross again.

Our accommodations were excellent. I particularly loved the Grand Hotel Moderne in Lourdes and the Hotel Michelangelo in Rome because of their great location!!!! But the other hotels were just as beautiful! All of our meals were delicious, full breakfast buffets in all locations and three course dinners every night. And service in each of the restaurants was impeccable!

The bus transportation was very comfortable. It is very important that we were NOT packed in like sardines. And Juan, our driver, was very accommodating!
Check in and luggage control was flawless. Transportation to and from all airports was on time. It was always a relief to see the 206 sign when we got off the plane.

We made so many great friends on this pilgrimage, that when we left for Rome, and some left for home, we were hugging each other like we had been friends for years, not just days. Some pilgrims left with us from Toulouse to spend a couple of days in Rome. Father Edwin Paniagua was our spiritual director in Rome. He did a great job in the short time we were in Rome (two days). One night, he took a few of us by public transportation to see more of the city, including the pantheon, and to buy some gelato! On our last day, he took us to see the convent started by Mother Teresa in the area of the Vatican. The guide, Antonio, that we had for the Vatican Museum and the four Basilica's the next day, was the best we have ever had. This was the third time we have toured these sites and we learned a lot of new information this time, thanks to Antonio. Please continue to enlist the assistance of both Fr. Edwin and Antonio going forward! We did not see much of Karin, but when we did, she was very helpful and kept everything organized and on schedule. She also got us in to the Papal audience in a most efficient manner.

This was our 2nd pilgrimage with 206 Tours and God willing it will not be our last. Please keep up the good work. Thank you, Sefanie for confirming our reservations and responding to our questions in a timely manner! You will always be our first choice for a Catholic pilgrimage!

Best regards,

Dale and Linda Mays

From: Mr. and Mrs. Rossy
Sent: Saturday, May 23, 2009 9:15 PM
To: Rinda Kanidinc
Subject: Re: The Holy Land - May

Dear Rinda,
Our pilgrimage to the Holy Land was such a beautiful experience! All the Holy Sites were true conversion experiences. Our tour guide Samie was excellent and we appreciated his thorough explanations and historical information. All our Masses were held in special locations. The Mass held in the tomb was unforgettable. Father Patrick Crowley's gifts from the Holy Spirit were so uplifting. We were blest to have him! Helen took excellent care of all of us. She helped us feel safe! God bless all of you for all your efforts in making our pilgrimage in the footsteps with Jesues very unique and special.
Peace and all good,
Yolanda and George Rossy

From: Marie Georganakis
Sent: Thursday, May 21, 2009 1:42 PM
To: Rinda Kanidinc
Subject: Re: The Holy Land - May

Rinda,

The Pilgrimage to the Holy Land was an unbelievable experience. There are no words to express the experience. The guide (Sami) and bus driver (Eed) were to of the nicest people. Sami was so knowledgeable about all the sites we went to, and the whole area in general. Everything was so well planned out and we did get to see so many sites.

Thanks again for a great tour

Marie Georganaki

From:  Patricia Galeaz
Date: Fri, 22 May 2009 12:21:18 -0500
To: Rinda Kanidinc<rinda@206tours.com>
Subject: Fatima, Spain and Lourdes - May

Rinda,

I want to commend 206 tours for the excellent tour and tour guide that we had on my trip to Fatima, Portugal; Spain; and Lourdes, France. But I especially want to commend you on you're choice of spiritual leader, Monsignor Kenneth C. Steffen.  When the group was all together, Msgr Steffen handed out little booklets of the places and shrines we would visit on the pilgrimage.  Undoubtedly, Msgr's preparation before the trip was extremely thorough!  There were no hesitations when anyone asked questions regarding the individual places that we visited!

Not everyone is that well-versed on the various subjects and places!  All the pilgrims on the trip spoke very highly of Msgr Steffen and would definitely want to have him lead another pilgrimage!  The time and work that Msgr spent in preparation for the pilgrimage was definitely very extensive!  Msgr Steffen also showed so much kindess in dealing with each individual on the pilgrimage!  No one felt left out or slighted. 

Msgr had special blessings for married couples, single persons, medical persons, religious persons, widow/widowers to name a few of the special  blessings he had during the trip.  No one was omitted from a special blessing!  I have never witnessed such caring and thoughtfulness from a priest before!  Everyone wants to keep in touch with Msgr Steffen.  That alone should tell you how everyone feels about him as the spiritual director of this trip and for future trips.  

Juan Carlos Tejeda was also an excellent tour guide!  His patience with all individuals was amazing.  Juan Carlos was very prepared for the pilgrimage.  If he did not know of something that you asked about, he would find out about it and then inform you.  He is very pleasant and easy to deal with and be in his company.

Juan, the bus driver, was pleasant and easy to be around.  But every time we got in and out of the bus, we had to tell him to lower the steps of the bus down!  That should be automatic.  At 5'1", I was definitely not the shortest, but it was a BIG step down if the steps were not lowered!

The hotels were always fine except for a couple times.  It was much more crowded with three in the room and there was no space to move around in the room as the beds took up all the room.

I would definitely take another 206 Pilgrimage with Msgr. Kenneth Steffen as Spiritual Director!  He makes the trip very special to each and every pilgrim!

Thank you for you're help and guidance,

Patricia Galeaz

_________________________________

From: Msgr. Kenneth Steffen
Sent: Thursday, May 21, 2009 5:25 PM
To: Rinda Kanidinc
Subject: Fatima, Spain and Lourdes - May

Milanka, Rinda,

It was great pilgrimage.
All the members of the pilgrimage grew closer together and established ties among each other.  They were very caring towards one another Juan Carlos did an excellent job.  He was very conscientious about caring about the needs of the pilgrims.  He would stay behind to make sure everyone was taken care of.  He especially was very solicitous towards pilgrim who was suffering from MS and had to take dialysis.  He made sure she was cared for. He was very patient with everyone.  At he end of the pilgrimage we raised him as a candidate for canonization and we referred to him as Santa Juan Carlos de Salamanca.

The other guides who were with us also were very competent and knowledgeable about their subject matter.  I was especially impressed with them as it was evident that they interwoven the spiritually element into their explanations.  I was especially impressed with Blanca(Avila) who extremely knowledgeable about St. Therese of Avila as many of the pilgrims were knowledgeable about St. Terese of Avila and her spirituality.  The tour director of Lourdes (I was not sure of her name) was extremely well informed.  I had been to Lourdes a few time before and she had reveal information that I had not heard before.

The hotels were beautiful and very accommodating.  I was especially happy that we stayed at Hotel Moderne Soubirous.  For many years I had walked by this boarded up hotel and thought how wonderful it be to stay here.  It has been richly restored with all the elegents and craftsmanship of the 1800's plus all the conveniences of the 21st century.   I noticed how all at the Hotel, from Franco Tedesco the owner to those who cleaned the rooms went out of their way to be of service to us.  There was a real sense of pride of the employees who served in this beautifully restored hotel.  You could feel the Soubirous spirit in the building.  The meals were delicious and well prepared and served.  It was wonderfully to see that this landmark hotel has not been torn down but has been restored.  It is great selection for future pilgrimages to Lourdes.  Another advantage of the Hotel was that it was so close to the Shrine that a person could walk there in a short period of time.  Thank you for the delicious 206 Tours cake they presented for us.  There were many powerful sharing in the pilgrimage of how the pilgrims were transformed in their experience.  We prayed for the 206 Pilgrimage Ministry during our prayer time.

Suggestions for next time.
Visit with the Carmelite Sister at the Incarnation Convent in Avila (at Alba de Tormes Sanctuary, we were able to meet with the Mother Superior and the sisters.)

Visit the Cenacolo Community for those who would be interested  in going while in Lourdes.  Lourdes is a place healing.
Sister Mary was such a wonderful addition to the pilgrimage. In fact one of the member had thought of being a nun due to her influence.

It was definitely a spiritual uplifting experience

Monsignor Steffen

From: Sandy Griffin
To: Javier
Sent: Wednesday, May 20, 2009 6:51 AM

Dear Javier,

I cannot believe that I am just now writing you after returning from my wonderful journey. I have been jet lagged and swamped at worked and have just now sat down to write. My trip was so amazing all thanks to you. You were so selfless in tending to every ones needs on the tour. I also want to thank your beautiful wife and mother for the wonderful lunch they prepared for all of us. My husband could not believe it all when he say the pictures. He is putting together a beautiful book for me thru shutterfly and I will be able to remember your entire family for ever including those darling boys Javier jr and Juan. I am a very sentimental person and I never forget anyone who has done something for me. I believe God brings people into your life for a reason. If we can ever do anything for your family just let me or my husband know. Thank you so much for everything. My pilgrimage was life changing.
Sincerely, Sandy Griffin

From: Paula Barr

Sent: Wednesday, May 20, 2009 4:10 PM
To: kristin@206tours.com
Subject: Holy Land with Father Timothy Joyce

I am very pleased to inform you that the tour of the Holy Land was superb, I enjoyed it immensely.

Thank You,

Paula Barr

From: Helen Zec, Marian Travel Services
Sent: Thursday, May 21, 2009 4:55 AM
To: Rinda; Milanka Lachman, CTC
Subject: Holy Land

Dear Rinda and Milanka,

Thanks for all your work in making this pilgrimage possible. Everything went well and everyone was satisfied. Our guide, Sami, was as good as in September. He is an excellent guide - always conscious of what the needs of the pilgrims are - very knowledgable and informative. Our driver, Eid, was a gem! A perfect gentleman and helpful in every way. The arrangements were great - no problems! I know this doesn't happen without a lot of work and thought - so I thank you again from the bottom of my heart.
You were in my prayers at all the Holy Sites.

Love, Helen

From: LESLIE ALLGOOD
Sent: Wednesday, May 20, 2009 1:39 PM
To: stefanie@206tours.com
Subject: Hi

STEFANIE,
OUR TRIP TO PORTUGAL, SPAIN AND FRANCE WAS WONDERFUL! MAGICAL!
206 IS THE BEST! I LOVED JUAN CARLOS, HE IS A FANTASTIC GUIDE, SO NICE AND ACCOMMODATING, BUT MOST OF ALL PATIENT AND CARING.
MONSEINGER....WAS THE BEST! SO PASSIONATE ABOUT OUR FAITH AND FUNNY AND FUN! WE COULD NOT HAVE ASKED FOR A BETTER SPIRITUAL LEADER.
MY FELLOW PILGRIMS ARE NOW MY FAMILY MEMBERS. JUST THE RIGHT NUMBER.SO KIND AND NICE. I MADE NEW LIFE FRIENDS.
MOST IMPORTANT MY FAITH GREW AND I FEEL EVEN CLOSER TO OUR LORD AND BLESSED MOTHER. MIRACLES HAPPENED FOR ME AND FOR OTHERS.
PAINS WENT AWAY AND WERE REPLACED WITH PEACE.
THANK YOU SO MUCH STEFANIE! I WILL FORWARD YOU SOME GREAT PHOTOS LATER!
YOUR FRIEND,
LESLIE ALLGOOD

From: Patti A.
Date: Tue, 19 May 2009 14:04:09 EDT
To: <milanka@206tours.com>
Subject: Re: Lourdes & Fatima Pilgrimage with Fr. Mickey Bancroft

Dear Milanka,

Our Lourdes and Fatima Pilgrimage was a deeply moving experience. Thank you for all you did to make this trip such a remarkable journey! Our accommodations were spectacular, the food was superb, and we were truly welcomed guests at each location. Our group, diverse in age (from 13 to 85), quickly bonded and became a family.

In addition to the peace and holiness I found at Lourdes and Fatima, I thoroughly enjoyed our bus ride through Spain and our stops at Loyola and Salamanca. The opportunity to see the countryside and get a taste of Spanish spirituality, culture and art was wonderful.

We were so very blessed to have Fr. Mickey Bancroft as our Spiritual Director and Javier Gomez as our Tour Guide. Fr. Mickey and Javier are gentle, compassionate and generous men who truly live their faith and “walk the walk”. Throughout the pilgrimage, they set the example for us of “being Christ to each other”.

This was my second pilgrimage with 206 Tours and Fr. Mickey. Both have been profound spiritual experiences that I will forever remember. Fr. Mickey’s homilies are always a source of encouragement and inspiration; his words remain with me long after the celebration of mass has ended. His deep spirituality, along with his engaging personality, ensures the perfect balance of faith and fun.

For Javier, being a tour guide is clearly more than a profession; it is a ministry. He immediately endeared himself to our whole group, treating us as his personal guests/ friends rather than just “clients”. He consistently went well beyond his responsibility as a tour guide to make our pilgrimage both memorable and uniquely special. He is truly an asset and wonderful representative of 206 Tours!

Three times during the week the gospel reminded us that “it was not you who chose me, but I who chose you”, and that we are to “love one another as I have loved you”. It was no coincidence that we were all brought together on this journey in faith, trust, spirituality and friendship. I will always be grateful to Fr. Mickey, Javier and my fellow pilgrims for allowing me to see the face of God in them.

Sincerely,

Patti A.

Dear Milanka,

All of the time and effort put into the 2009 Holy Land Pilgrimage was well worth it.  The trip exceeded everyone's expectations, I believe.  At the least, it exceeded mine and I know that Fr. Tim was very happy overall and the comments I received from the pax were all more than positive.

Our guide, Joseph, did a splendid job.  His depth of knowledge and caring was extraordinary.  Ramzi, our driver, was cordial, friendly and highly competent.  The sites we visited were overwhelming in their Christian importance and the spiritual feelings that they invoked.  We were oftentimes moved close to tears by many of them.  For me, touching the slab that Jesus laid on, after His crucifixion, in the Holy Sepulchre brought a flood of emotions.

Our hotels were excellent.  The food was well-prepared and in abundance.  The staffs were friendly and competent.

The lady who had the kidney stone attack, finished the pilgrimage without further incident.  A huge thank you goes to Joseph for using his connections at the Nazareth hospital to get a quick diagnosis of her condition.

This was my first pilgrimage in 3 years due to illness.  I came home exhausted, but with a greater sense of connection with my lord Jesus Christ and my Church.

Many thanks to all of the folks at your office and those on the ground in Israel for making this pilgrimage extra special. 

Now on the 2010 in Spain and Portugal.

GBY

Tom

From: Kim
Date: Mon, 18 May 2009 08:56:13 EDT
To: <milanka@206tours.com>
Subject: Lourdes & Fatima Pilgrimage w/Fr. Mickey Bancroft

Dear Milanka,

We just returned from our pilgrimage to Lourdes & Fatima last evening. You and your 206 team did it again; you organized yet another truly spiritual and magical experience.  From the beginning you showed us how truly special you are, when on the morning of our departure, you and your family were there to see us off.

We had a group of 33 pilgrims.  Our guide, Javier was and is a truly WONDERFUL humble man. (A true Gift from God) Anything that I could ever write or say about him wouldn't even begin to do him justice. He gave of himself 150%. He has a very generous, loving, humble heart and a gentle soul.  Javier made us all feel like family.  He was always very patient and helpful with us, especially to those who had special needs. (He went above and beyond at some points). Javier took this journey with us. He showed and shared his faith and knowledge with us. His devotion to his faith and the Blessed Mother is beautiful and inspiring. 

Our spiritual director, Fr. Mickey Bancroft (Sorry Mickey, you know I love you dearly, but I had to give Javier top billing in this letter) also was and is another of Gods precious Gifts to us.  Again, I cannot adequately express my thoughts or feelings here to do him justice; as his friend, he knows how I feel about him. He made this a truly Blessed pilgrimage.  His daily masses were wonderful and full of the Holy Spirit.  Fr. Mickey made sure to include as many of the Pilgrims as possible, as Lectors, Eucharistic Ministers, Altar Server and Cantor.  Fr. Mickey always had a ready smile on his face, was available to answer our MANY questions and always made sure to spend time with all the pilgrims. He made this a truly Blessed experience for us all.

Now, about the pilgrimage.  We spent the first two and a half days in Lourdes. Lourdes was a truly Holy and Blessed place for me. The Grotto, the Basilica’s, the candle light procession, the baths and hiking the Pyrenees, were for me the spiritual highlights of the pilgrimage.  After we left Lourdes (en route to Fatima) we traveled by bus to Loyola for a quick stop and tour of the Basilica de Loyola. We visited Salamanca (Javier’s hometown) for one day.  What an amazing & beautiful town. It is here where we saw Pilgrims traveling the Route of St. James, to Santiago de Compostela. Even though we only had the afternoon and evening there, we were able to see so much. Javier was wonderful; he was very excited and proud to show us his hometown. Our next stop, Fatima. One of the highlights of our bus ride to Fatima was the lunch break at a roadside pit stop. Javier surprised us with a picnic lunch with goodies he bought while we were in Salamanca.  That was a wonderful bonding experience.  We arrived in Fatima on Friday. We spent a day and a half there. We were able to see and do so much in that short period of time; the Chapel of Calvary, the town of Aljustrel (where the children lived), candlelight procession to pray the rosary and so much more.

We had a such a wonderful and spiritually enriching pilgrimage. I'm so looking forward to going to Oberammergau with 206 next year.

Thank you again for everything. Many Blessings to you ,your family and all at 206.

Warmest Regards and Blessings

Kim

"When we take one step toward God, he takes seven steps towards us."

From: "Costello, Edward "
Date: Mon, 18 May 2009 15:19:54 -0400
To: <milanka@206tours.com>
Subject:Costello message

Good afternoon Milanka,

I just came back from the Pilgrimage trip that Father Mickey attended. I wanted to let you know that Javier was absolutely wonderful. His insight and knowledge relating to religion, culture, and local history was impressive. However the most important attribute of Javier is his compassion for people. He made all of us feel as if we were family. You have found a gem in Javier.

I also wanted to comment on you and your company. Every last detail of my trip was well thought out and the Hotels you choose were great. You and your company are first rate. I have already recommended your company to others.

Sincerely,

Ed Costello

From: G. & D. Cabeza
Sent: Thursday, May 14, 2009 6:04 AM
To: rinda@206tours.com
Subject: Re: Rome, San Giovanni Rotondo and Assisi - MAY

Good morning Rinda:

We are back home and we are glad to say that everything went according to schedule. We had a wonderful trip with an excellent tour guide Vicenzo who was always with us, on time, professional, friendly and a skillful driver Miguele. Father Chris was always "looking after his sheep" and delivered beautiful homilies. He sings like an angel and is an excellent priest. Everybody liked him. And yes...we made it to the airport 3 hrs. before the flight!!.

From all the local tour guides, by far Anthony in Rome was the more knowledgeable and spoke perfect English.

Good choice of hotels close to the Shrines and excellent food specially at the Savoia in San Giovanni Rotondo. The food at the Hotel Gioto in Assisi was only a 2 stars compare to the Savoia with a 5 stars. The Michelangelo in Rome also had excellent location and good food. In reference to time off, we liked the fact that we had a couple of hours off at the end of the day to take a short nap or the young and active went back for more shopping around the hotel. In summary, not an overwhelming schedule and a small group made a big difference. We enjoyed having mostly young people in the group. We had good laughs and they were fun to travel with.

The memories that we have from Padre Pio and St. Catherine of Sienna will last forever.

Thank you again for a wonderful tour and we will contact you in the near future for other itineraries.

God Bless,

Guillermo and Denise Cabeza

From: J. Cutler
Sent: Tuesday, May 12, 2009 7:38 PM
To: Rinda Kanidinc
Subject: Re: Greece - May

Dear Rinda....Absolutely loved the entire trip. Our guide in Athens was the greatest. We had daily Mass with our spiritual director, Fr Coryer. All accommodations very good. Exhausted and having some jet lag today. We never knew what to expect on flight home on Olympics. We ate sandwiches just before being served a meal which was not announced. Very difficult to hear the announcements. But flight was on time and no problems with baggage. Greece is a beautiful country. It truly is necessary to have good walking shoes and stamina to walk up many hills.

Jackie Cutler

From: dulce v
Sent: Tuesday, May 12, 2009 2:56 PM
To: Rinda Kanidinc
Subject: Re: Lisbon, Fatima, Spain and Lourdes - April

Dear Rinda,

Thank you very much for welcoming us back home after a wonderful pilgrimage. The three of us, Carmelita Jocson, Leonor O'Sullivan and myself really enjoy our stay in the four countries and so many cities with all of us, pilgrims. We went to all the wonderful places we have not seen before. Everybody are so kind, friendly and nice. We were like a big family together, Father Caprio being our spiritual director. and Javier Gomez, our tour guide were so good, friendly, accommodating and we all love them. Javier is a wonderful guy and his family, who invited all of us to have lunch in their place at Salamanca, Spain. We will never forget what they did, and we're looking forward for another trip.

Thanks again, and have a nice day!

Dulce R. Villabona

From: Patricia Daniels
Sent: Tuesday, May 12, 2009 2:11 PM
To: Rinda Kanidinc
Subject: Re: Poland - May

Dear Rinda,

I arrived back home last night - tired but very excited and happy! Poland was the most beautiful country that I have visited so far! My son and I enjoyed every minute of the pilgrimage. We were with a small, lovely group of people. And our guide, Paulina, was terrific. She did everything in her power to make us comfortable. And she is so knowledgeable about everything! We learned so much from her. Our driver, Gregory, was also very kind and helpful to all of us. They made the trip so very much fun. I am already thinking about going back next year!

Thank you for all of the arrangements that you made for us. Everything was perfect!

God Bless You,
Patricia

Portugal, SPAIN, LOURDES PILGRIMAGE
APRIL 26-MAY 5, 2009.
Fr. Al Caprio, O.P.-Spiritual director

Overall the pilgrimage was successful and a blessed event. The (more or less) 25 pilgrims seemed to bond together and to form a pilgrim family.
Personally, I’m sorry to say that I was affected by lower back pain, which decided to act up because of the long and uncomfortable plane trip. Various pilgrims were very kind and considerate showing concern for me every step of the way. What kind and loving people!
As you well know, Javier is and was his outstanding self and was loved by all. During our visit to Salamanca, his mother and friends prepared the most wonderful paella meal for the whole group, which was transferred to the parish church hall due to inclement weather. That same evening we shared dinner with his beautiful wife and two wonderful boys, which also was a highlight event.
The pilgrimage fulfilled its purpose of being a prayerful and blessed event appreciated by all.

From: Abueita, Samir
Sent: Thursday, May 07, 2009 8:16 AM
To: Rinda Kanidinc
Subject: Rome, San Giovanni Rotondo, Assisi, Florence and Venice - April

Rinda,

Our trip to Italy was great in every aspect. From the time we arrived to Rome until we departed from Venice, every thing was very well organized, the hotels were clean with good service. Our guide Vincenzo made every thing very easy and comfortable, he knew exactly what and when to do things. It was great also to have father Charles with us, he did great and helped a lot. The other members of the group were great, we became like a big family, we hope to continue our friendly relationship with them. We were very impressed with all the spiritual history, and arts in all the places we visited. It was truly a spiritual journey we will never forget.
We hope to book another trip with 206 Tours in the future, and will strongly recommend them to our friends and family members.
Thanks for a very wonderful trip.

Emilia & Samir Abueita

From: Fr. Charles DesRuisseaux
Sent: Wednesday, May 06, 2009 9:24 PM
To: Rinda Kanidinc
Subject: Re: Rome, San Giovanni Rotondo, Assisi, Florence and Venice - April

Dear Rinda,
Thank you for having invited me to be chaplain of your wonderful pilgrimage to the shrines of Italy. This entire pilgrimage was very well planned. I appreciate greatly the booklet that was prepared for this. It was very helpful. Having Magnificat was helpful too. I had bought 18 copies of the short breviary but since the group kept changing numbers of participants I did not give it out. We were so very busy and tired. We did Morning prayer a couple of times on the bus from Magnificat. In most shrines we celebrated the Mass of the saint whose tomb we venerated. We celebrated the Masses at the shrines which had been previously booked for us. I only changed the second day in Rome. That day I concelebrated with a couple of bishops and 20 others priests in St. Peter's Basilica. The participants were happy to have had Mass and Communion at St. Peter's in back of the papal altar at the chair of St. Peter.
Thanks also for your most generous stipend. I received it before I left.
Vincenzo Palego was a wonderful tour escort. He was always pleasant and helpful. He suggested self-service restaurants for lunch which were reasonable, fast and had delicious food. I am also very glad that breakfast and dinner was included every day. There were all very good. It is nice to eat together. That way we get to know everyone. The group because friends very fast and hated to separate at the end. There were no complainers and everyone was on time for all the tours.
The Hotel Michelangelo in Rome, has been renovated since I was there several years ago. It is much better and the location is ideal.
Again I thank you for the experience. If ever you need another chaplain, I hope to be able to serve again on one of your tours.
Best wishes in Christ,
Fr. Charles DesRuisseaux

From: Antonio Manalo
Sent: Tuesday, May 05, 2009 4:03 PM
To: Rinda Kanidinc
Subject: Re: The Holy Land - March

Hi,
We are very satisfied with the excellent way George conducted our trip. We like to return to the Holy Land very soon.
Tony

From: Stephens, Diane
Sent: Tuesday, May 05, 2009 1:44 PM
To: Rinda Kanidinc
Subject: Rome, San Giovanni Rotondo and Assisi - April

Rinda,

Our trip to Italy was wonderful. We loved it every step of the way and our guide was very informative. We never would have been able to see or know what we were seeing had we done the trip on our own. The hotels and buses were spotless and very comfortable, the food was great and I particularly liked trying different wines.

We would recommend 206 tours to anyone, everything was so well organized and meticulously scheduled, it was especially nice to not have to wait in lines, and our tour guide was able to get us to the right place at the right time. We were both overwhelmed with the art, sculptures, architecture and the beautiful countryside throughout Italy. This trip was very spiritual for us and we came home with lots of great pictures to share with our family and friends.

It was great having Fr. Charles from our parish with us also, he had traveled to Italy so many times before that we had the opportunity to get a private tour of the Vatican on the first day when we arrived. All the people in our group were great and I hope we can continue to keep in touch with them. We have made great friendships with them, this was a trip we’ll never forget.

Thank you again for the well organized trips that you schedule, we hope to take a tour again in the future and we will certainly book though 206 tours.

Best regards,

Diane and Bill Stephens
 

From: R. Vatcher
Date: Mon, 04 May 2009 16:41:18 -0400
To: rinda@206tours.com
Subject:  Trip We Won

Dear Mary and friends at WAU,

I would like to thank you wholeheartedly for our pilgrimage to Italy with 206 tours! It was such a faith-filled experience! We had two wonderful priests (on different portions of the trip) with us all the time. We got to see Pope Benedict and receive his blessing in St. Peter's Square in Rome. We had mass inside St. Peter's twice - one day at the main altar and one day underneath the altar where St. Peter and other popes are buried. We saw the churches of St. John, St. Paul, and St. Mary Major - all more magnificent than the next. We visited the catacombs where four early Christian martyr saints were buried and had mass inside one of them. We visited Montecassino and saw the beautiful church of St. Benedict and St. Scholastica. We had mass under the altar where they were buried - we felt we were in a truly holy place. We visited Florence and saw Michelangelo's David and the Duomo. We also visited Assisi - a town out of the Middle Ages - where we visited the churches of St. Frances and St. Clare. We saw the incorrupt body of St. Clare who died in 1253 and she's still there - amazing. There were three doves at St. Frances' church that were descendents of the original three doves that came to stay with him so long ago. The thornless rose bushes were in bloom.
The whole trip was a powerful, inspirational faith experience. Our two teenagers were able to experience their faith in an unimaginable, remarkable way and for that we can't thank you enough! The tours were all well-organized and led by tour escorts that were friendly and knowledgable. We would recommend a 206 Tours for anyone who wants to deepen and experience their faith in a whole new way. Visiting the holy places where these holy people lived and died is a powerful testament to our faith.
Again, I would like to thank you on behalf of myself and my family very much for the faith journey you provided for us!

Blessings,
Rita Vatcher

From: "Michael & Pauline Bowen"
Date: Sun, 3 May 2009 12:27:16 -0500
To: 'Rinda Kanidinc'<rinda@206tours.com>
Subject: Rome - April

Rinda-

We are back and our body clocks are still re-adjusting; however, we will remember our pilgrimage to Italy for the rest of our lives.

This was our first experience with 206 Tours and we will strongly recommend you to anyone who asks – in fact, we have already sung your praises to several friends at our church. We weren’t sure what to expect before we left, especially with the change in itinerary and priests. Our expectations, though, were greatly exceeded. Both Father Charles and Father Peter were wonderful, each in his own way. They provided a deeply spiritual dimension for our pilgrimage that those who simply “tour” Italy do not come close to realizing. After Father Charles and the other tour left on their separate pilgrimage, we met Father Peter at dinner the night he arrived into Rome. After dinner, even though it was late and he was obviously tired, he told us that he had never been to Italy and wanted to walk over to St. Peter’s Square, so we and another couple accompanied him. Witnessing the excitement of a young Priest’s first visit to St. Peter’s Square is a memory that we will always cherish. After our tour ended, he stayed an extra night in Rome and invited us to have dinner with him, since we, too, were staying a few extra days. We had a very enjoyable visit with him and we thanked him for adding Rome to his itinerary. Even though he is young and has been ordained for less than 2 years, his homilies have the wisdom of someone who has been preaching for 20 years. He is a real gem and we hope you continue to use him for your tours as long as he is willing and able to participate.

Vincenzo and Gaia, also, were exceptional as our tour guides. Even though our group was relatively small, especially after we split (our tour numbered only 6 on the last day), they did not let the small numbers affect their level of professionalism and zeal. Gaia, especially, appeared to take advantage of the small number to get to know each of us on an individual basis so that she could meet our needs and expectations. We have attached a picture of our group on the last evening. Rick and Rita Vatcher and their children are on the left (even the kids have big smiles!), Gaia is in the middle front, and Pauline and I are standing in front of Father Peter. You can tell by our smiling faces that we were quite pleased and blessed with our experience. What you can’t see in the picture is our inner sadness that the tour was ending.

Thank you for making this type of experience available. It deeply enriched our lives and we will certainly look to you for our next pilgrimage.

Kind Regards,

Mike & Pauline Bowen

From: Logan Mohring
Sent: Saturday, May 02, 2009 2:04 PM
To: rinda@206tours.com
Subject: The Holy Land - March

Dear Rinda,

I hope this email finds you well.

Permit me the opportunity to thank you and all the staff at 206 Tours for a wonderful pilgrimage to The Holy Land in March.

As a young seminarian faced with the many challenges and opportunities that being a discerning seminarian hold, I continue to be enriched with a sense of renewal and affirmation as I reflect upon the spiritual experience of the places we visited. The renewal of Baptismal promises in the Jordan River at the foot of Mt. Hermon, the celebration of the Holy Eucharist in Bethlehem, walking the Via Dolorosa, the beauty of the people and cultures, the spiritual guidance of Fr. Joseph, the joyfulness of my brother and sister pilgrims, etc. I hope to return to Israel again one day and encourage everyone to do so as well.

Again, I am sincerely grateful for your generosity, professionalism and support.

Pray for the peace of Israel.

Yours very truly,

Logan

From: Joe Parlett
Sent: Friday, April 24, 2009 4:08 PM
To: Rinda Kanidinc
Subject: Re: Medjugorje - April

The pilgrimage was excellent! What had started as a relatively normal sized group in the planning had shrunk to just three of us by the time we went. However, we were treated as if we were royalty. Our guide and our house manger gave us full service and their complete attention throughout. It could hardly have been a very profitable set-up for them or for 206, but no hint of this dimmed our welcome. It presented them with an opportunity to give us very personal service, and they met that opportunity to the fullest.

JOE PARLETT
 

From: mary h bernard
Sent: Sunday, April 26, 2009 3:25 PM
To: rinda@206tours.com
Subject: RE: Lourdes- April

Dear Rinda,

PEACE and BLESSINGS !!
My Pilgrimage to Lourdes with Jesus and His Mother was a great and spiritual exprience from day one. This time I was brave enough with the grace of Jesus to go into the baths which was a different holy experience. There were so many wonderful events and graces from Mary and her Son that I do not know which was the most outstanding. One evening my legs would not do the big procession so I pulled the drapes in our room and opened the window. The sight and sound was unbelievable. I could see all the candles twinkling in the distance and clearly hear the music and the final blessing.
The people at the hotel were friendly and helped us in any way they could.
I could go on but I wish to thank you for all the help that you gave to me in getting this Pilgrimage together for my spiritual health.
May Jesus and Our Lady of Lourdes keep you in their protection now and always.
Sr. Mary Henry Bernard aka Helen Bernard

From: Tom Dwyer Seven Seas Voyages
Sent: Monday, April 20, 2009 11:58 AM
To: milanka@206tours.com
Subject: Isn't this your 25th year in business? 

Dear Milanka,

Isn't this your 25th year in business? 

If so, congratulations on a tremendous accomplishment.  Your company has made it possible for thousands of people to seek the Lord in holy places throughout the world.  I can't think of a more noble undertaking.

GBY

Tom

From: Joe Batcheldor
Sent: Thursday, April 09, 2009 12:12 PM
To: Rinda Kanidinc
Subject: Re: The Holy Land - March

Rinda,
 
Thanks for allowing me to be the spiritual director for our "Once and lifetime Pilgrimage" to Israel. It was certainly a wonderful preparation for the Sacred Triduum, beginning with this evening's Liturgy of the Lord's Supper which I will be celebrating in the little Church of St. Ann in Howardstown, Ky., a small hamlet in the southern section of Nelson Co. about 20 miles south of Bardstown, the county seat. Our group of Pilgrims were diverse in both age and places of origin; Italian, Philippines, New York  City, Florida, Kentucky and California.
 
The highlights expressed by most was the renewal of Baptismal promises at the foot of Mt Hermon at the springs there, the source of the Jordan River way up in the Golan Heights; the renewal of marriage vows at Cana; reflecting on the teaching of Jesus while sailing on the sea of Galilee; walking the Via Dolorosa in the Old City of Jerusalem; and particularly the celebration of the Holy Eucharist at Bethlehem, in the Holy Sepulcher, Palm Sunday in the Church of the Good Shepherd in Jericho with the parishioners there, and in the church in the Garden of Gethsemane.
 
Our guide was most knowledgeable as well as entertaining.
 
Again, my best to all at 206 Tours. A Holy and Happy Easter to you all!
 
Your religious tours have enriched me over the years as well as the many who have traveled with me. I am ever grateful for the opportunities you have given me and I hope I have met the expectations of those whom I have tried to serve.
 
Father Joseph Batcheldor

From: Mary Viens

Sent: Tuesday, April 14, 2009 7:46 PM
To: 'Kristin Shea'
Subject: Pilgrimage with Father Gerry Bertin and Doreen Duquette!

Dear Kristin,

My husband and I were fortunate enough to go on the pilgrimage to Medjugorje with Fr. Gerry and Doreen.  

We send heartfelt thanks to Slavenka who is a fabulous guide and wonderful person.  

This trip has changed our lives!  A change that will hopefully last forever!

All our best,

Mary and Paul

From: Shannon Rodriguez
Sent: Monday, April 06, 2009 10:38 PM
To: Kristin Shea
Subject: Pilgrimage with Father Gerry Bertin and Doreen Duquette!

Hi Kristin,

We had a wonderful time in Medjugorje and we loved Doreen and the rest of the group.  They were all so helpful with our infant, Conner, and they even babysat for us.  Medjugorje was everything I expected and more. It is such a peaceful place and we can't wait to return.

Thanks,

Shannon Rodriguez

From: Father Diaz
Sent: Thursday, April 02, 2009 6:53 PM
To: Rinda Kanidinc
Subject: Pilgrimage to Greece March 2009

Hi Rinda,

I'm sorry for not going back to you sooner.  I enjoyed very much our pilgrimage to Greece.  ...I enjoyed my visit to Rome specially because I ended my pilgrimage at the tomb of  St Paul in Rome. The inland tour guide Mr. Ianess Ventiroso did a great job.  He had everything prepared for us and he is a very well educated man.  I learned a lot from him. Fr. Patrick from Milwaukee is a lot of fun.  I left him everything for his last mass with the group in Ephesus. 

Attached to find a picture of the whole group. Thank you very much for your kindness and cooperation. in Christ,

Fr. Diaz

From: Consuelo M. Benson
Sent: Thursday, March 19, 2009 10:12 PM
To: kristin@206tours.com
Subject: Holy Land with Fr. Brian Mulcahy!

GOD IS LOVE


Dear Kristin: Thank you for asking !! Every thing went well as expected. Could not ask for more. Julie was great and we all were happy with our guide and the chauffer.

Very well planned trip. The weather was perfect, sunny and brilliant. I really enjoy all of every thing.


Thank you, and Gold Bless you all.

Consuelo M. Benson

From: janet diller
Sent: Tuesday, March 17, 2009 8:10 PM
To: Kristin Shea
Subject: Holy Land with Fr. Brian Mulcahy!

Dear Kristen,

It is great to be home but I already miss the wonderful people I met on the pilgrimage to the Holy Land with Julie and Fr. Brian. I never expected the glory of the trip and the friendships that developed from all the pilgrims. Jack the guide was wonderful , knowledgeable of all the areas we visited but mostly a wonderful caring and spirit full man . He was always looking out for our welfare and guided us through the entire trip with professional respect. He is certainly a "Keeper" and should be commended for his job. Omar the bus driver was beyond great and very caring for us all.

I sit back and think of all the places we visited and my mind just swims with joy knowing that Jesus walked here, preached here and died here . The highlight was the Mass at the Holy Tomb of Christ was beyond words to describe . Special , inspired by God, blessed by the Holy Spirit, a once in a life time experience, thank you for all of this and the many hours  you and Julie worked on this most unforgettable experience for me and the other pilgrims. I sleep dreaming of all that I have seen and enjoyed.

I'm looking forward to next year and maybe a surprise trip for our growth in spirit and prayer.

Many thanks to you and your staff.

Sincerely,

Janet Lombardi-Diller

From: John and Hazel Roeder

Sent: Tuesday, March 17, 2009 3:02 PM
To: Kristin Shea
Subject: Holy Land with Julie Zackrisson & Fr. Brian Mulcahy

Dear Kristin,

This is my fourth pilgrimage with Julie and Father Brian. The first three were to Medjugorje. Each was different, but equally blessed and I am eternally grateful.

In the Holy Land we had Jack as our guide and Omar as our bus driver. Those four holy people guided us to Our Lord at each sight and we were blessed

and protected as we walked toward God. The knowledge and deeper convictions of God's merciful love and faithfulness down through the centuries were palpable.

A treasure to enlighten my faith forever more. May all the world come to know God's infinite love through us pilgrims whom 206 Tours bring to Our Lady and Jesus.

God bless you all,

Hazel Roeder

From: Brian Mandeville
Sent: Tuesday, March 17, 2009 10:34 AM
To: Kristin Shea
Subject: Holy Land with Fr. Brian Mulcahy, Mar 2009

Kristin, 

The Pilgrimage trip was magnificent; life changing to a large degree. 

Fr Brian made it especially wonderful.  He is a marvelous person and priest.  Truely he added so much to the specialness of each place we visited. 

Julie was a saint, too, with her eye problem but keeping it strictly to herself and family.  Thank God she is OK now. 

And Jack was like a angel!  What a find for you!  Do not let him go. 

- Jean & Brian 

From: Fr. Jiri
Sent: Saturday, March 14, 2009 5:29 PM
To: 'Stefanie Meyer'
Subject:162:03-06 GREECE PILGRIMAGE

Stefanie, I am back from a GORGEOUS trip to Greece, first time with your 206 agency. It was superb, smooth, highly organized, and beautiful. I am amazed, and thanks many times for your services. Will do a publicity for you, and am sure to come with you soon again. Thanks. God bless!

Fr. Jiri (George) Kucera, Taft-Texas

From: Marcia Sutton

Sent: Wednesday, March 04, 2009 1:00 PM

To: Kristin Shea

Cc: Milanka Lachman;

Subject: Israel Pilgrimage

Dear Kristin,

I wanted to let you know how much I have appreciated all your support for the success of my recent group Pilgrimage to Israel. We had a glorious time!

The way was truly prepared for us to take advantage of our intention to "walk in the footsteps of Jesus."

Salah (our guide) and Reshad (our driver) took expert care of us. Salah's wisdom was evident in his historical presentations and he provided me ample time to do the sacred teachings that were mine to give at each site we visited. He took care of all our logistics in a professional way and always adapted to every request I made of him. I'm also grateful that I had the opportunity to have dinner at his home and meet his lovely wife and beautiful boys. Our whole group was blessed and grateful to the many ways each of them expressed their love of Israel and their respect of us.

I'm also grateful for the support we received from Guiding Star Tours. I was able to meet with one of their representatives upon our arrival in Jerusalem as well as receive our farewell message and gift from their 'founding father.' It was a nice touch to the end of our tour.

As you know, the only source of our difficulty was the return routing back to the United States. It was a 'rough landing' for most of us. However, I do understand that in these times of reduced schedules by the air carriers, adjustments must be made. This situation does not takes away from the true value of all that was given and received during our Pilgrimage.

Again, I'm deeply grateful for each and every person who provided such wonderful service to us throughout our journey. I would highly recommend 206 Tours and it's affiliated partners to anyone in the future.

Gracious blessings,

Marcia

Rev. Marcia Sutton

Christ Church of Co-Creation

10824 SE Oak St. #327

Portland, OR 97222

503/654-0792

www.SacredDays.org

From: Catherine Dollahite
Sent: Sunday, March 01, 2009 12:42 PM
To: 'Kristin Shea'
Subject: RE: Welcome Home from Your pilgrimage to the Holy Land with Marcia Sutton!

Thanks so much Kristin for your email.  I had a wonderful time.  Every part of my trip was fabulous except the very long journey home. Salah was an excellent guide and a wonderful man. Rashad was an excellent bus driver.  I felt we were in very good hands our whole trip.  Israel is a incredible country.  Walking in the footsteps of Jesus was indescribable.  I am sure I will continue to be blessed beyond measure by my sacred journey to the Holy Land. Thank you so much for your help in setting up our journey.  I look forward to working with you in the future.

Blessings,

Catherine Dollahite

From: CAROL LITSTER
Sent: Monday, March 02, 2009 2:58 PM
To: Kristin Shea
Subject: Re: Welcome Home from Your pilgrimage to the Holy Land with Marcia Sutton!

Thank you Kristin for the lovely tour of Israel with Marcia Sutton.  It was beyond my expectations.  I loved the hotels, the way Israel (the cities) have grown, the agriculture, the tour guide's knowledge.  There's still a lot to process.  I thoroughly enjoyed.  Carol

From: Christine Green
Sent: Sunday, March 01, 2009 8:01 PM
To: 'Kristin Shea'
Subject: RE: Welcome Home from Your pilgrimage to the Holy Land with Marcia Sutton!

Hi Kristin,

It was an amazing pilgrimage! Thanks so much for your support.

We loved Salah! What an awesome person and incredible guide. He took great care of us.

Thank you for all your attention to details and for all your assistance.

Blessings,

Christine Green

From: Dominic and Victoria
Sent: Sunday, February 15, 2009 4:52 PM
To: Kristin Shea
Subject: Pilgrimage to Mexico with Suzanne Krisak and Father Gordon Reigle

Hi Kristin    

What an experience of affirmation to have seen the original tilma Juan Diego displayed before the bishop - the only Image of Our Lady that was ever shown to the world.  We are moved.  The trip was even more memorable since everyone got along so fabulously.  Suzanne no doubt was superb in her organization and made the pilgrimage go so smoothly.  We hope to be with 206 Tours in the future, God willing. 

Dom and Vicky

From: Mr.McAloon
Sent: Monday, February 02, 2009 8:25 PM
To: rinda@206tours.com
Subject: Our Holy Land Pilgrimage

Dear Rinda & Staff,

It's no wonder you didn't block my phone calls prior to our trip to the Holy Land, because I gave you such grief. My wife has always wanted to go to the Holy Land, and I would always find a reason not to, because I never felt comfortable with all the trouble in that area of the world. However, in a weaker moment, we decided to book in the beginning of 2008 for the Jan '09 trip.

All went well until about a week prior to us leaving....then the Gaza dispute broke, and missiles were flying, and tanks were rolling. I might mention my stomach was rolling also! And that's about the time I began badgering Rinda.

Well, I'll save the details, we went, we were perfectly safe, and I would have to say, this was the most memorable trip I have ever taken! Our guide, George was a wealth of information, and the driver Tony was exceptionally pleasant. We also had the advantage of being a small group, able to go where larger groups could not. It was wonderful!

Valerie and I love vacationing, and have been travelling since we were married 40 years ago, but I will never forget this trip, it has enriched our lives so much, and Rinda, thanks for your patience and understanding.

Mr. Mc Aloon

From: Msgr. K. Steffen
Sent: Wednesday, January 28, 2009 11:22 AM
To: Rinda Kanidinc; Milanka Lachman
Subject: Fw: Congratulations: Prayers answered while on pilgrimage

Milanka and Rinda,
A miracle as a result of 206 Tour to Lourdes this year. One of the Pilgrims on the Lourdes Pilgrimage in March 2008 had been trying to conceive a child for 8 years. In this Lourdes jubilee Year, Mary interceded to Her Son with the miracle of life given to this child. Below is the correspondence.

Hi Betty:

How are you abs Delores? Haven't heard from you in ages.

I finally have some good news for you. God has answered our prayers, Shay is pregnant five weeks!!! Please include her in your prayers and please remind Monsignor, he promised me during our trip in Lourdes he was going to pray for Shay and that goes to Delores too. I am so grateful for all your prayers. Hopefully with God's blessings, everything will be okay.

Take care and God bless,

C. Chatfield

From: Mr. and Mrs. Madiwela
Sent: Saturday, January 24, 2009 9:54 AM
To: Rinda Kanidinc
Subject: The Holy Land - January

Dear Rinda and Staff,
Words are inadequate to express our sincere thanks and joy, for enabling us to make this pilgrimage to the Holy Land, such a memorable one We just can't express our feelings. This memorable and treasured experience has brought back childhood memories. Then, we never in the wildest of dreams thought that we would have this opportunity to tread the very holy paths that Christ has trod.
Needless to say, when Fr. Wency first sounded us about the Pilgrimage,, we were a bit apprehensive about participating. Nevertheless his persuasion to join helped us make it, never ever to be forgotten.
Our flights right through were smooth and free of any problems. We met the rest of the group at TelAvieve and George Sa'id our wonderful guide and Tony Hosh our driver were there to greet us and accompany us to the first Hotel. Everything, accommodation, food etc, etc. were very good all along. George is so well informed and knowledgeable in the Scriptures and the history of the Holy Land . George is the BEST. All in all we felt like one family after we got to know each other. Everything, starting with where Fr. Wencey was to say Mass each day and the places we were to have a snack etc. were well prearranged in advance by George. Tony on the other hand, very cheerfully drove us to all the places carefully and safely. He always had the words "no problem on his lips" to put us at ease. They both were very tolerant and helpful. Fr Wency had come prepared with a prayer book for each of us for the morning prayers as soon as we got on the bus and George had a Gospel ready for each day which he read very reverently. We were happy to meet your representative Gabriel in the Holy Land, who spoke to us of the importance of Christians making this Pilgrimage, and we sure will speak about it to our friends and encourage them to go to the Holy Land. It was also a joy to meet the parishioners in a small parish where the Sunday Mass was concelebrated. The Strength of their faith, strengthened our faith even more.
So, with renewed thanks for all your help and assurance of prayers that more and more Christians may be inspired to make this hallowed and treasured Pilgrimage, we conclude this note with a big "God Bless You and the 206 tours." always.
Francis and Carmel Madiwela...

From: W. Rodrigues
Sent: Monday, January 19, 2009 10:19 AM
To: rinda@206tours.com
Subject: Holy Land Pilgrimage

Dear Milanka, Rinda and Staff.
It has been a life time experience here in Holy Land. I must congratulate you for having arranged for us such a wonderful pilgrimage. The holy sites remind us of our childhood faith. Lord says 'Unless you become like little children you will not enter into the kingdom of heaven.' It has been a wonderful experience of reinvigorating and reenergizing our faith. Although soon we will wind up our trip but it has made us to think how the plan of God in Jesus came to be fulfilled in a unique way in this part of the world.
The weather, the hotels, food and water were excellent. Our tour guide George Sa'id was superb. He is very witty, man of faith and knowledgeable. As a trained guide he had been very helpful. We have had no problems at all all through the journey.
Although there is political tension underway between Israelis and Palestinians.. No way, did we feel the impact of it. People here are used to it. They say it is part of their history. We got to pray for a peaceful settlement of their issues.
Everybody was so cordial and helpful to make our trip a success. The 206 tours local staff has been wonderful. They have asked us to pray for the peace in this land and specially for minority Christians who are struggling and demoralized. They not only need our prayers but much more our presence by undertaking pilgrimages. which will help their economy and boost morale. May Prince of Peace guide and protect them.
Thanks for all your prayers and support.
Fr. Wency

From: Fr. Rodrigues
Sent: Wednesday, January 14, 2009 3:15 PM
To: rinda@206tours.com
Subject: News from Holy Land

Hello Rinda and staff,

Reached Tel Aviv safely yesterday at 3:30 local time. George, the local guide was at the airport to pick us up. Surprisingly, it was a union at the airport all the pilgrims landed by the same plane. Although they came by different flights to Frankfurt but boarded the same plane to Tel Aviv. The George took us straight to Joppa where St. Peter stayed with Simon the Taner before he set sail to Rome. In the adjacent Church I offered Mass. Thereafter we were driven to hotel at Tel Aviv.

Today we left from Tel Aviv to Ceasarea to see the ruins of king Herod's palace and amphitheater from there we drove to Mount Carmel where Prophet Elija had killed the false prophets of god Baal. from there we moved to Stella Maris (Star of the Sea, Marian Shrine) went to see the city of Haifa one of the famous biblical cities on the Mediterranean. (the cave where prophet Elija hid and offered sacrifice to God, now the shrine of Mount Carmel stands on the top of the cave). Proceeded to Cana where the couples renewed their marriage vows in the place where Jesus had performed his first miracle; changed water into wine. Around evening we came to the Basilica of Annunciation to offer Mass adjacent to the house of Mary, where Mary was given the message by the archangel Gabriel. Saw the well where she would draw water. Visited the carpentry shop of St. Joseph, Thus the day ended with a lot of spiritual and historical experience. Now we are in the hotel at Nazareth. Tomorrow will be a day to visit places like sea of Tiberius, perhaps we will be taking a boat ride where Jesus gave explicit command to Peter that he would now no longer be a fisherman rather fisher of men . Arrangement has been made to have the mass on the shore.

Thank God so far there is nothing untoward has happened beyond Gaza, The security in the streets of the cities is very tight, one sees the police and army personnel armed with heavy guns. Pray that there is peace in this region.

So far arrangements have been excellent. Our tour guide is highly knowledgeable.
The weather is fantastic. Hope you all are fine. I pray for you specially during this journey.
O.K. then, bye for now.
God bless you.
Fr. Wency

Lourdes, Medjugorje, & Rome

HI RINDA! THANK YOU FOR WELCOMING ME BACK, OUR HOLY LAND TRIP WAS AWESOME AND THIS TRIP WAS EVER THE BEST PILGRIMAGE EVEN THOUGH THIS WAS MY SECOND PILGRIMAGE WITH 206 TOURS AND WE HAD A VERY INTERESTING GROUP AND EACH ONE HAD DIFFERENT EXPERIENCE IN A DIFFERENT LEVEL AND OUR TOUR GUIDE RAMON/RAHMAN WAS EXCELLENT AND VERY KNOWLEDGEABLE AND OUR DRIVER NASSI WAS A VERY SAFE/EXCELLENT DRIVER.
 

From: Barbara M
Sent: Monday, December 15, 2008 3:25 PM
To: rinda@206tours.com
Subject: Holy Land Pilgrimage

Greetings to all,

Good morning Rinda: 

Javier  was also great in helping to provide  Fr. Madison everything he needed for our daily Mass. Fr. Madison was also wonderful. I wasn't sure when I first decided to do this pilgrimage if  I should go with a priest and a group of people I didn't know,other than with my parish priest and parishoners that attend St. Augustines in Pleasanton, California. can proudly say, it  was a privilage to be on  the same tour as Fr. Madison, his love for Christ and Mary was very evident. And my fellow pilgrims were a blessing!

From: E. Conway
Sent: Wednesday, November 19, 2008 12:25 PM
To: Rinda Kanidinc
Subject: Fatima, Spain, Lourdes and Paris - NOVEMBER

Our pilgrimage of 11/2 to 11/14 was great!

We gained spiritually in many ways!

1) Our guide, Javier Gomez, provided us with detailed information on both the strategic and tactical elements of each stop, his spirituality was evident to us all, he shared himself and his family with us in a very warming manner and he "mother henned" us with departure issues as we returned home. He made a great difference to all of us!

2) We found some of the information on St. Burnedette at Nevers to be a great summary of our spiritual journey when we read some of her thoughts while in the Convent, especially, her desire to know how saints solve or handle there own spiritual issues.

3) The visit to St Catherine Laboure's Paris (Rue de Bac) home, gave us thoughts, information and booklets and prayers on the Miraculous Medal (Immaculate Conception Medal) to stir ourselves and others at home.

It is an understatement to say that this has been a good trip! Thanks to 206 Tours.

E. Conway

From: Mr. and Mrs. Murphy
Sent: Wednesday, November 19, 2008 1:08 PM
To: 'Milanka Lachman' Cc: 'Eva Manise-Relyea'; 'Stefanie Meyer'; 'Paul Orobello'; 'Kristin Shea'
Subject: Lourdes, Paris, Nevers and Lisieux - NOVEMBER

This was our first pilgrimage and it was more than we expected. The hotels we stayed at were comfortable, clean and friendly. The breakfasts were typically European but satisfying. The dinners were great and we had time to enjoy and relax from a busy day. Fr. Martin, our spiritual director provided us with the perfect religious experience each day of our journey. Knowledgeable and gracious locals hosted each of the shrines we visited. Our guide was the best. Javier (Francisco Javier Gomez Alonso) was always available and had a depth of knowledge that added substance to our stay. We will always be indebted to Javier for his help when our flight home was cancelled and he worked with us to get another flight home. Overall, this was a deeply spiritual and rewarding trip and will recommend 206 Tours to others.
Tom and Sarah M.

Rinda,

Thank you for making this pilgrimage to Mexico City happen. We had a wonderful time.The hotel was very nice. Everyone there was wonderful.Our tour guide, Arturo, was the best. Thank you for hiring him for our trip. Additionally our driver, Luis, was excellent. He did a perfect job of moving us around, and he kept his vehicle immaculate.This was our second trip with 206. Hopefully there will be another in our future.

Sincerely,

Debb