Month: June 2023
Today on June 29 we celebrate the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, the keys and the sword of the Church. These two pillars of our faith make up the rock of apostolic succession and a great portion of New Testament authorship. The people, events, and objects mentioned in Scripture are preserved today in Catholic Churches in Rome. Relics like these bring the Word of God to life, remind us of its reality, and reignite our faith in the One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic Church.
1. Saint Peter’s Tomb
The story of St. Peter’s Basilica is long enough to fill books. St. Peter was crucified upside down and buried in a pagan and Christian cemetery, with graves decorated with Christian symbolism disguised as pagan (because Christianity was illegal). His tomb has always been a profound place of prayer for Christians and a pilgrimage site, though secretly. Once Christianity was legalized, the complex of mausoleums in which Peter was buried was partially broken down and filled in for the foundation of the first basilica. A complicated series of excavations beginning in the 20th century have revealed both the pagan and Christian burial sites, and today’s Scavi tours culminate in a viewing of the actual location of what is believed to be St. Peter’s bones. The rock of the Church is literally the “rock” of the modern basilica. His grave is directly underneath the main altar. It is significant that our first pope died in a manner similar to Christ (he refused to die in the exact way that Christ did), and that the Vatican is built on his bones. Our Church was not just founded on Peter’s authority, but on his sacrifice.
2. Saint Paul’s Tomb
St. Paul was beheaded under Nero in Rome between 65 and 67 AD. Two miles from the location of his martyrdom, he was buried by a devout Christian woman in a Roman necropolis (because he was a Roman citizen). Devotion to his place of burial sparked up immediately, and Constantine ordered an excavation of the memorial set up over his grave once he legalized Christianity in the fourth century. Constantine built a basilica over his grave in 324 AD, and that basilica has been expanded and embellished throughout the centuries to be the modern-day St. Paul Outside the Walls. The apostle’s tomb is buried beneath the Church’s altar, and there is a viewing window for people to venerate the sarcophagus. St. Paul’s death mirrors that of Christ. He lived a remarkable life preaching the Good News, and then died for the sake of the Kingdom. The second reading for today’s solemnity teaches us St. Paul’s disposition before his death:
“I, Paul, am already being poured out like a libation,
and the time of my departure is at hand.
I have competed well; I have finished the race;
I have kept the faith.
From now on the crown of righteousness awaits me,
which the Lord, the just judge,
will award to me on that day, and not only to me,
but to all who have longed for his appearance” (2 Timothy 4:6-8).
3. The Skulls of Saints Peter and Paul
Each of these saints have basilicas built over their graves and in their names. Their skulls, however, are a different story. Though their bodies lie separately, the skulls of Saints Peter and Paul are displayed together in the Basilica of St. John Lateran. The “holy heads” are enclosed in two ornate reliquaries high above the main altar (pictured above). They were moved to the Lateran Basilica by Pope Urban V (1368-70) to emphasize the double apostolicity of Rome, emphasized also by today’s significant solemnity. The display of these relics teaches us that St. Peter and St. Paul are literally the “heads” of the Catholic Church.
4. Saint Peter’s Chains
Acts 12 describes King Herod’s arrest of Saint. Peter. “Secured by double chains” and “under the guard of four squads of four soldiers each,” the first pope was awaiting trial in prison on the feast of Unleavened Bread. Scripture reminds us of the power of prayer by noting that the Church was fervently pleading to God on his behalf, and that night an angel woke him up and freed him. His double chains fell off, and the angel miraculously led him out with all the guards unaware. These very chains are on display for veneration in Rome in the church “San Pietro in Vincoli,” Saint Peter in Chains. The chains and our preservation of them are an incredible reminder of our Church’s roots in our first pope. Peter, called by Jesus Christ himself, was enslaved for our sake and saved by God to continue spreading the Gospel. Throughout the centuries God has protected His True Church with various miracles like this one and blessed many, like Peter and Paul, to eventually be martyrs for the Kingdom.
5. Saint Paul’s Chains
Also in the Basilica of St. Paul Outside the Walls, along with his tomb, are St. Paul’s chains. According to ancient tradition, these chains fastened Paul to the Roman guard responsible for him. Every year on this day, the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, the chains are processed around the basilica. The self-proclaimed “prisoner for the Lord” was imprisoned several times and boasted of his weakness and trials. As St. John Chrysostom preached regarding these chains, “nothing is so glorious as a bond for Christ’s sake.” From St. Paul’s many writings and persecutions, we learn the value in standing up for our Faith in Christ, regardless of the consequences. Our reward is in Heaven.
View the Full 206 Tours Pilgrimage Directory: www.206tours.com/pilgrimages
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Recently, we have seen an increase in flight cancellations and interruptions. This last year alone, we have seen more flight interruptions than we have in over 40 years. If you experience flight cancellations, knowing these steps can alleviate frustration.
We recommend that you always buy Travel Insurance through 206 Tours prior to your pilgrimage! This is crucial to protect your financial investment (for tours or cruises that you paid for in conjunction with the affected flight) and you can have peace of mind knowing that most other additional costs will be reimbursed.
If your flight is cancelled or delayed, we first encourage you to stay calm and say a prayer. Even though you may be upset, please do not take your anger out on the airline agent or 206 Tours as we will always do everything in our power to help you. While our team can assist you with looking up flight alternatives, it is the airline who must ultimately reissue, endorse, or revalidate your ticket. Rather than becoming angry, the best course of action is to wait until you can write a letter to the CEO of the airline and U.S. Department of Transportation to share your experience.
It is important that you know your rights in this situation. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, if your flight is cancelled, the airline agent must rebook you, for free, on the next available flight. However, this might be a challenge as during peak travel season many flights are sold out. If this happens, the airline agent may offer to rebook you on an alternative connecting flight. Even if it is not an ideal connection, we encourage you to accept their offer as it is unknown when the next flight will be available. If the airline representative is not being helpful, it is best to ask if you can speak to their manager.
If you are at the airport and are notified that your flight has been cancelled, get in line for the customer service desk as quickly as possible. Hundreds of passengers will flood the desk within minutes and cause wait times that are hours long. While you are in line, you may also call the airline (always opt for international desk as they have authority in rebooking and reissuing your tickets). Check your airline’s website for the phone number to reach their customer service team.
If your flight is rebooked but is not scheduled to leave until the next day, ask the airline representative to provide you with an overnight hotel and meals. Please note that this is not always a guarantee as each airline has its own policies about what they provide to customers whose flights are cancelled. Once your flight is rebooked, we encourage you to send an email to 206 Tours (sales@206Tours.com) letting us know your status and the time of your new flight arrival.
If you wish to cancel your trip after an official airline cancellation, you may be entitled to a refund for your airline ticket. (Note: This refund applies only to your plane ticket, and not to your pilgrimage tour.) Lastly, remember to take photos and save your receipts so that if you have purchased travel protection, you can file a claim by contacting Travel Insured International at 1-855-752-8303.
You can also file a claim through their website (https://www.travelinsured.com/claims-guest/create/start /) using your name and the policy number that is listed on your invoice.
View the Full 206 Tours Pilgrimage Directory: www.206tours.com/pilgrimages
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Baptism of Repentance
The Jordan River is not only the sacred site of the Baptism of our Lord, it is also the spot where many repented of their sins in preparation for the Messiah.
St. Paul tells us that John heralded the message of Christ’s coming by proclaiming a “baptism of repentance” (Acts 13:24). Indeed in the gospels we find him urging people to repent and make straight the Lord’s paths. When the people hear this, those from all over rush to be baptized by him in the Jordan River as they acknowledge their sins.
What was this baptism of repentance that took place firstly at the Jordan River? John speaks of “the coming wrath” and the ax that will cut down any tree that does not produce good fruit (Matthew 3:7). Yet instead of fearing God’s wrath, John shows a way for people to mourn their sins and look forward to Christ with hope.
“I am baptizing you with water, for repentance, but the one who is coming after me is mightier than I. I am not worthy to carry his sandals. He will baptize you with the holy Spirit and fire” (Matthew 3:11).
This “word of salvation” is for us, the sinners of today (Acts 13:26). Christ fulfilled the Baptist’s message with the sacramental baptism in which we all share. Standing on the shores of the Jordan River calls one to reflect on one’s own baptism, and one’s continual daily conversion. We are called to make heartfelt repentance. We are called to mourn our sins. We are called to make straight the paths of our hearts for Christ to walk in. We are called to make recourse to the holy waters and incredible graces given to us at baptism, to live in the Holy Spirit, and to bear good fruits.
Consider joining us on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land, with the Jordan River being just one of the many inspiring sites. Come see where John the Baptist proclaimed the day of salvation. It is one thing to reflect on the words of the gospels, it is another to walk in the roads of their making.
St. John the Baptist, pray for us!
View the Full 206 Tours Pilgrimage Directory: www.206tours.com/pilgrimages
The Birthplace of 206 Tours
The town of Medjugorje in Bosnia-Herzegovina has in many ways become synonymous with the Blessed Virgin Mary. That is because on this day forty-two years ago, on June 24, 1981, Our Lady first appeared in this small village which at the time was largely unknown to the world. The next day, June 25, 1981, she appeared again to six young teenagers who would become the visionaries of Medjugorje on what is now known as Apparition Hill (Mount Podbrdo). Since the first alleged apparitions in 1981, Our Lady has continued to appear to the visionaries with her motherly messages of love. The messages are full of hope and peace for the world if mankind will return to God in prayer, penance, and love.
(Photo taken on Cross Mountain in the 1980s of 206 Founder & President, Milanka Lachman, and her daughter, now Vice President, Sandra Lippold.)
Medjugorje is a particularly special place for 206 Tours as it is the birthplace of our mission. In 1985, our President and Founder, Milanka Lachman journeyed there after hearing of Our Lady’s alleged apparitions. She was so moved by her experience that she began to return bringing groups of pilgrims with her and felt God’s call to begin a company whose sole purpose would be to bring people on pilgrimage. Thus began 206 Tours, whose name is derived from the specific time of 20 minutes to 6 in Medjugorje when pilgrims and locals await the time of the Our Lady’s alleged apparitions every evening.
In the 1980s, there were no hotels, restaurants, or shops in Medjugorje. The only accommodations available were those offered by generous locals who opened up their homes to visitors. In many ways, Medjugorje and 206 Tours have grown up alongside one another. Since the time of the first alleged apparitions, over 40 million people have journeyed to Medjugorje and that number continues to grow. 206 Tours has brought over 300,000 pilgrims to experience this sacred place over the past 42 years.
(206 Tours pilgrims atop Apparition Hill.)
Those who have visited Medjugorje can attest to a special peace which permeates the entire countryside. It is a peace like that of which Jesus described in the Gospels when he said, “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you” (Jn 14:27). As the town of Medjugorje has been chosen in a special way by Our Lady who is the Queen of Peace, it is no wonder that pilgrims continue to flock here, leaving inspired and filled with hope.
Throughout her messages, the Blessed Mother emphasizes “5 stones” through which the faithful can grow in holiness and live out the call of Medjugorje:
- Praying the Rosary intentionally from the heart every day.
- Fasting twice a week.
- Partaking in the Sacrament of Confession each month.
- Receiving Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament every Sunday.
- Reading Scripture daily.
The messages of Medjugorje promote these 5 practices as Our Lady continues to remind us that they are what will heal our hearts, our families, and our world. Although the alleged apparitions of Medjugorje are not yet formally approved by the Vatican, in 2019 Pope Francis authorized dioceses and parishes throughout the world to visit Medjugorje as a site of pilgrimage. Our Lord said, “You will know them by their fruits” (Matt. 7:16), and the fruits of grace and conversion have been abundant in Medjugorje as it is known as “the confessional of the world”.
(Mount Krizevac “Cross Mountain”, Medjugorje)
The spiritually enriching experiences of Medjugorje are plentiful. In addition to climbing Apparition Hill, pilgrims to Medjugorje also attend daily Mass at St. James Church, climb Mt. Krizevac (Cross Mountain), partake in Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, meet with the visionaries, visit the Community Cenacolo, and pray at the miraculous statue of the Risen Christ.
(St. James Church, Medjugorje)
On this special 42nd Anniversary of the alleged apparitions, two groups of 206 Tours pilgrims will be present in Medjugorje to partake in the special festivities commemorating the occasion. The town continues to be one of the most popular pilgrimage destinations for 206 Tours with groups traveling there all throughout the year. Thanks to long-standing relationships with the townspeople and visionaries, 206 Tours allows pilgrims to experience the town of Medjugorje in a deeply personal way with expert guides and comfortable local accommodations. Learn more about upcoming pilgrimages to Medjugorje and experience this special town which is so dear to Our Lady.
View the Full 206 Tours Pilgrimage Directory: www.206tours.com/pilgrimages
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“My Immaculate Heart will be your refuge and the way that will lead you to God.” -Our Lady of Fatima to Lucia
Our Lady of Fatima revealed her Immaculate Heart, pierced with thorns and wounded by mankind’s sins, to the three seers, begging for reparation to be made. Just like it can be overwhelming to choose a pilgrimage, it can be overwhelming to choose a devotion to Mary. Our Lady of Fatima requests rosaries, communion of reparation on first Saturdays, mortifications offered up for sinners, etc. Let us not be discouraged. Let us look into the heart of our Mother.
Our Lady of Fatima spoke thus to the children: “Sacrifice yourselves for sinners, and say many times, especially whenever you make some sacrifice: ‘O Jesus, it is for love of You, for the conversion of sinners, and in reparation for the sins committed against the Immaculate Heart of Mary.’”
Mary loves us. She keeps us in her heart; she is our refuge. She loves us unconditionally, regardless of if we complete her requests. She does not ask us to make reparation to her Immaculate Heart as a dictator, but as a mother. She asks us to pray, go to confession, and receive communion because she is the caretaker of our souls and wants us all to be united with her Son in Heaven. She desires the salvation of humanity, and that is why she revealed to us her wounded heart. She does not judge us. She invites us.
Let us respond to this invitation today with heartfelt prayer for the state of the world and devotion to our Lady. As she revealed to Lucia, her Immaculate Heart is our pathway to God. Consecration to her is a life-giving, never ending fount of graces from Christ that she grants us access to.
We are currently offering over 100 pilgrimages that include Fatima, most of which recur annually. See the site of our Lady’s apparitions, the tombs of St. Francisco, St. Jacinta, and Sister Lucia, and bask in the presence of the Holy Spirit as you walk these holy grounds. Fatima is the perfect location to consecrate yourself to Mary for the love of Jesus, the conversion of sinners, and in reparation for the sins committed against the Immaculate Heart of Mary.
View the Full 206 Tours Pilgrimage Directory: www.206tours.com/pilgrimages
Today is the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. St. Margaret Mary Alaqoque shares in her diary: “Jesus Christ, my sweet Master, presented Himself to me, all resplendent with glory, with His five wounds shining like so many suns…From all parts of His Sacred Humanity there issued flames but especially from His adorable breast, which was like a furnace…Opening it, He showed me His loving and lovable Heart as the living source of those flames. Then He revealed to me all the unspeakable marvels of His pure love, and the excess of love He had conceived for men from whom He had received nothing but ingratitude and contempt.”
Christ, so vulnerable and wounded, so open and meek as our crucified Lord, often receives from us “nothing but ingratitude.” He gave His Heart to us fully on calvary, He opened His wounds to be probed by doubting Thomas, and He still repeatedly pours Himself out to us and begs us to receive Him.
How do we allow God to soften our hearts? How do we realize and accept His love for us? When I visited Rome for the first time, I was confronted head-on with the reality of the crucifixion at the Basilica of Santa Croce in Gerusalemme. There they were. The true articles of the Passion, the relics of my salvation. There hung pieces from the true Cross, a nail that pierced the skin of the Son of God, two thorns that crowned His precious head, the sign that labeled Him “King of the Jews,” doubting Thomas’s probing finger, and the beam of the good thief’s cross. This church holds within its walls a glance into the Sacred Heart. You can still see the physical proof of God’s undying love, shown in His death for us, in this church in Rome.
There are many ways to honor the Sacred Heart of Jesus and accept His love, but one way to embrace the outpouring of Himself on the cross is to go and see it. If you feel called to Rome over the Holy Land, consider our new Rome for Seven Nights pilgrimage, which includes a visit to Santa Croce, as well as to the Holy Steps Christ walked up to see Pilate.
Often big steps need to be made to let God in. Journey with us to embrace the cross and thus, embrace His Sacred Heart.
View the Full 206 Tours Pilgrimage Directory: www.206tours.com/pilgrimages
5 WAYS ST. JOSEPH CAN INSPIRE YOUR FATHER’S DAY GIFT THIS YEAR
As the man chosen by God to be the foster father of Jesus Christ, St. Joseph is revered as a model of fatherhood and masculinity. Through his deep humility, purity, and prayer, God raised up St. Joseph as the Protector of the Holy Family and of the Catholic Church. What better way to celebrate Father’s Day than to choose a gift for your father or spouse that is inspired by this great saint:
1.Make a Gift by Hand.
Sacred Tradition tells us that St. Joseph was a carpenter in the town of Nazareth. We can imagine that many of his days were spent in his workshop, working alongside Jesus to provide for the needs of his family. Although St. Joseph’s work may have been simple, it was invaluable because it was carefully crafted with love, dedication, and obedience to God’s will. Gifts made by hand take longer and may not be as elegant, but they are always more valuable as they are uniquely made for one individual. Even if it is only a handmade card, consider making your own unique gift this year for Father’s Day as an extra way to show your love.
2. Pray a Novena or Litany of St. Joseph.
St. Joseph’s deep holiness and virtue flowed from his rich interior life of prayer. Even in moments when he was unsure how to proceed, God gave always gave him the direction and grace he needed in order to carry out his Heavenly Father’s will. Give the same gift to your father or spouse by dedicating time to pray for his needs and for God to grant him wisdom as the spiritual leader of your family.
Check out the Litany of St. Joseph below or look online for a novena of your choice.
3.Take Time for an Intentional Walk Together.
We read in Scripture that St. Joseph traveled great distances on foot with Our Lady. Whether going to Bethlehem for the Census or the land of Egypt to protect Jesus from Herod, St. Joseph always went where the Lord led him. Although difficult, these trips must have also allowed time for deep reflection and conversation between St. Joseph, God, and Our Lady. If you’re looking for an inexpensive, meaningful gift, look no further than to follow St. Joseph’s example and go for a long walk with your father or spouse. Take time to share your heart and thank him for all of the ways he is a gift to your family. This intentional gift of your time will not go unnoticed.
Did you know that 206 Tours offers pilgrimages to Egypt? Experience the place where Christ took his first steps.
4.Gift Him with the Book, Consecration to St. Joseph.
If your father or spouse is looking to deepen his relationship with St. Joseph, one of the best resources is the Consecration to St. Joseph by Fr. Donald Calloway. This book journeys through the life and glories of St. Joseph as told by Sacred Scripture, Catholic tradition, and the wisdom of Saints who were especially devoted to him. This book is sure to transform anyone’s perspective of St. Joseph from a vague figure of history into a powerful intercessor.
Fr. Calloway is a Spiritual Guide for 206 Tours! Visit our website to see a complete list of Father’s upcoming pilgrimages.
5.Plan a Pilgrimage for Him to Visit the Site of St. Joseph’s Workshop or the Holy House of Loreto
What better way to bring the person of St. Joseph to life than by visiting the places where he lived and worked. Your loved one can walk in this great saint’s footsteps through a pilgrimage led by 206 Tours to several holy sites related to St. Joseph including the Holy House of Loreto in which the Holy Family lived together and St. Joseph’s Workshop which is now known as St. Joseph’s Church in Nazareth. The memories of these trips and the graces received on them will be sure to last a lifetime.
Click Here to view the full list of pilgrimages offered by 206 Tours.
Litany of St. Joseph
Lord, have mercy on us.
Christ, have mercy on us.
Lord, have mercy on us. Christ, hear us.
Christ, graciously hear us.
God the Father of Heaven, have mercy on us.
God the Son, Redeemer of the world, have mercy on us.
God the Holy Ghost, have mercy on us.
Holy Trinity, One God, have mercy on us.
Holy Mary, pray for us.
St. Joseph, pray for us.
Noble Offspring of David, pray for us.
Light of Patriarchs, pray for us.
Spouse of the Mother of God, pray for us.
Guardian of the Redeemer, pray for us.
Chaste Guardian of the Virgin, pray for us.
Foster-Father of the Son of God, pray for us.
Zealous Defender of Christ, pray for us.
Servant of Christ, pray for us.
Minister of Salvation, pray for us.
Head of the Holy Family, pray for us.
Joseph Most Just, pray for us.
Joseph Most Chaste, pray for us.
Joseph Most Prudent, pray for us.
Joseph Most Valiant, pray for us.
Joseph Most Obedient, pray for us.
Joseph Most Faithful, pray for us.
Mirror of Patience, pray for us.
Lover of Poverty, pray for us.
Model of Workmen, pray for us.
Glory of Domestic Life, pray for us.
Guardian of Virgins, pray for us.
Pillar of Families, pray for us.
Support in Difficulties, pray for us.
Comfort of the Afflicted, pray for us.
Hope of the Sick, pray for us.
Patron of Exiles, pray for us.
Patron of the Afflicted, pray for us.
Patron of the Poor, pray for us.
Patron of the Dying, pray for us.
Terror of Demons, pray for us.
Protector of Holy Church, pray for us.
Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world,
Spare us, O Lord.
Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world,
Graciously hear us, O Lord.
Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world,
Have mercy on us.
V. He made him the lord of His household,
R. And prince over all His possessions.
Let Us Pray
O God, who, in your loving providence, chose Blessed Joseph to be the spouse of your most Holy Mother, grant us the favor of having him for our intercessor in Heaven whom on earth we venerate as our protector. You, who live and reign forever and ever. Amen.
View the Full 206 Tours Pilgrimage Directory: www.206tours.com/pilgrimages
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Our Lady of Montserrat, also known as La Moreneta, is an esteemed religious figure and the patroness of Catalonia, Spain. She is venerated at the Montserrat Abbey, a Benedictine abbey situated on the Montserrat mountain near Barcelona. The sanctuary of Montserrat has attracted millions of devotees and visitors from around the globe, making it a significant pilgrimage destination.
The origins of the Our Lady of Montserrat statue are steeped in legend and mystery. According to tradition, the statue, depicting the Virgin Mary with the Infant Jesus, was carved by St. Luke the Evangelist and discovered in a cave on the mountain by shepherds in the 9th century. Affectionately referred to as “La Moreneta” due to her dark complexion, the statue holds great symbolic and spiritual significance.
The devotion to Our Lady of Montserrat grew rapidly, leading to the expansion of the abbey and the construction of additional buildings to accommodate the increasing number of pilgrims. Today, the Montserrat Abbey stands as an architectural marvel, seamlessly blending with the natural beauty of the mountain.
Our Lady of Montserrat holds a special place in the hearts of Catalans, representing their identity and faith. During challenging periods in Catalan history marked by political and cultural suppression, the image of the dark-skinned Madonna provided solace and strength to the people.
The Basilica of Montserrat, where the revered statue is enshrined, serves as a magnificent place of worship. Pilgrims from diverse backgrounds visit to seek solace, offer prayers, and seek the intercession of Our Lady of Montserrat. The ambiance within the basilica is characterized by reverence and spirituality, with the resonating Gregorian chants of the Escolania de Montserrat, one of the oldest boys’ choirs in Europe.
In addition to its religious significance, Montserrat is renowned for its natural beauty. The mountain range offers awe-inspiring vistas, rugged cliffs, and picturesque hiking trails. Many pilgrims combine their spiritual journey with the opportunity to explore the breathtaking surroundings, finding peace and tranquility in the embrace of nature.
Our Lady of Montserrat continues to inspire and deeply touch the hearts of countless believers who come seeking her blessings. Her image represents hope, faith, and the enduring power of devotion. Whether through personal prayers, active participation in the liturgy, or simply finding solace in her presence, pilgrims experience a sense of renewal and inner peace when encountering Our Lady of Montserrat.
𝐒𝐡𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐩𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐏𝐢𝐥𝐠𝐫𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐠𝐞
www.206tours.com/tour56
Visiting:
Barcelona · Montserrat · Manresa · Zaragoza · Toledo · Madrid · Santiago de Compostela
View the Full 206 Tours Pilgrimage Directory: www.206tours.com/pilgrimages
Your pilgrimage is booked, you are packing your suitcase, and you stop and ask yourself, “What do I wear on the flight?” Travel outfits are sometimes an afterthought on our list of priorities when it comes to preparing for a pilgrimage, but they are extremely important. When traveling internationally, flights can oftentimes be long and take place overnight. Choosing an outfit to travel in that is both functional and comfortable will help to make your travel experience far more pleasant and allow you to arrive feeling refreshed.
KEEP YOUR DESTINATION IN MIND
Always keep your destination in mind when making decisions about what to wear on your trip. It is helpful to know what type of attire is considered appropriate at the destination where you will be landing. The weather in the city from where you are departing can be drastically different than that of the arrival city. If you are taking off from a warm climate, there may be cooler weather where you land or vice versa. Make sure you check the weather in advance so that you know what to expect. Layering clothing is a simple way to transition your outfits to fit your environment. Cardigans, sweaters, and jackets are all easy options to transform an outfit and are helpful to have on hand throughout your travels.
PRIORITIZE COMFORT AND FUNCTIONALITY
Comfort should be your main priority when deciding on a travel outfit. If your flight is overnight, consider an outfit that will allow you to relax and get some rest. Try to avoid clothing that is tight or restrictive. Instead choose materials that are loose and breathable, such as cotton or linen. You can also opt for fabrics that do not wrinkle easily as an effortless way to feel more put together throughout your travels. If you are traveling in cooler weather or tend to get cold easily, consider bringing a shawl or wrap which can double as a blanket on your flight. This is another reason why layering clothing is important since you can add or remove pieces in order to stay comfortable. Bringing items that have multiple functionalities will help you to cut down on your packing list and save space.
SLIP-ON SHOES MAKE TRAVEL A BREEZE
Choose an outfit that will allow for easy check-in at the airport. It is best to avoid clothing with metal decorations or multiple zippers and from wearing bulky jewelry as these items could trigger metal detectors. Most airports require travelers to remove their shoes when going through security. Choosing footwear such as sneakers, loafers, or flats are all good options as they can be easily slipped on and off and will allow you to get through the screening process much easier.
It is also helpful to wear socks so as to not have to walk on the airport floor barefoot after removing your shoes. Socks will also help to keep your feet warm during your travels. If you are prone to swelling, consider wearing compression socks on the flight as they will help to improve circulation and keep blood flowing smoothly. Before you travel, check your airline’s dress code policy just to be safe as some may not allow you to wear certain types of footwear on board the aircraft such as flip-flops.
Travel Tip: Remember to wear your shoes while using the toilet on the flight as that liquid you may see on the bathroom floor most likely is not water!
MAXIMIZE YOUR WARDROBE
To maximize your wardrobe, choose a travel outfit with items that you can utilize later throughout your trip. Basic pieces that pair well with a variety of others will allow you to mix-and-match styles so that you can assemble multiple outfits. For example, a pair of relaxed denim jeans and a button-down shirt with a cardigan can be a comfortable outfit for a flight as well as a stylish choice to wear throughout the rest of your trip. An oversized shirt and leggings or a loungewear set are all comfortable and useful options to have on hand in the days to come as well.
When packing for an international trip, remember to keep things simple. The same goes for what you wear on your flight. Keeping your outfits throughout your pilgrimage focused on comfort and functionality will allow for easy wardrobe choices and a more pleasant travel experience.
View the Full 206 Tours Pilgrimage Directory: www.206tours.com/pilgrimages
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Today on the Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ and in the dire need for Eucharistic revival in this world, we look to the times when the Lord has chosen to make the invisible reality of transubstantiation a visible miracle.
Every moment of consecration at every Mass around the world is a miracle. Through Christ’s priesthood, shared in by the celebrant, the pure offerings of bread and wine become the spotless victim of the Lamb of God: Christ Himself is wholly present in His Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity in every particle of the Sacred Species. This is the mystery of our faith. Yet there are “Eucharistic miracles,” which refer to times when something supernatural occurs with the already supernatural Blessed Sacrament. There are roughly 150 Eucharistic miracles approved and recognized by the Church.
The first Eucharistic miracle occurred in Lanciano, Italy around the year 700. A certain monk was seriously doubting the true presence of Christ in the Eucharist. He failed to believe that his words of consecration, through the power of the Holy Spirit, were efficacious in changing the bread and wine into the Body and Blood of our Savior. One Mass, while he was having doubts during the consecration, the bread and wine changed not only in substance but also in appearance into the Flesh and Blood of Jesus Christ. He cried out, “O fortunate witnesses, to whom the Blessed God, to confound my unbelief, has wished to reveal Himself visible to our eyes! Come, brethren, and marvel at our God, so close to us. Behold the Flesh and Blood of our Most Beloved Christ.” Word of the miracle spread immediately. Many investigations have been carried out on this event over the centuries. Shortly following the occurrence, the Blood coagulated into five globules of various sizes. The globules have been repeatedly weighed, and regardless of what combination they put on the scales (2 vs 3, 1 vs 4, 1 small vs 1 large, etc.) it remains balanced. This miracle within the miracle testifies to the truth that “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever” and any amount of the Blessed Sacrament (1 host or 1,000 hosts) is the same amount of Jesus, that is, all of Him (Hebrews 13:8). From 1970-1971 Pope St. Paul VI allowed a series of in-depth scientific studies to be conducted on the miraculous Flesh and Blood. The same blood type has been found in all of the Eucharistic miracles that have been tested, and this is no exception. They found that the Blood was type AB: universal receiver. They also found that the Flesh had the structure of heart wall tissue. In receiving the Eucharist, we are accepted and incorporated into the heart of Christ. He makes Himself one with His Church. The study also found that the makeup of the Flesh and Blood was that of fresh, normal human blood. The scientists were amazed that this Flesh and Blood, found free of preservatives, was so incredibly old. They asserted that it should have deteriorated rapidly. Our Lord gives us living water and the Eucharist is truly the lifeblood of our faith. Our God is ever ancient, ever new.
Another miracle occurred in Santarem, Portugal in 1266. A desperate woman with an unfaithful husband sought assistance from a sorceress. The sorceress requested a consecrated host in order to complete her love potion. The wife attended Mass and, following communion, removed the Body of Christ from her mouth and wrapped it in her veil. The host started to bleed and stain her veil, filling the woman with fear and rushing her out of the church. When she got home she hid the host in a trunk. That night a beaming light emanating from the trunk woke up both her and her husband, at which point the woman confessed to him what she had done and they both fell on their knees before our Lord in adoration and repentance. The next morning they called the parish priest, and the host bled for three more days. The couple’s home became a chapel in 1684. This miracle is a witness to married couples especially. It is not through our own efforts, but through the grace of Jesus Christ that the sacrament of marriage must be carried out. Fidelity and sacrifice for one’s spouse is possible through the Passion and love of our Lord, made clear to us in His gift of Himself in the Eucharist. The miracle has attracted many faithful since its occurrence and multiple popes have granted plenary indulgences to its devotees. Numerous studies have been carried out on the sacred articles. The Body of Christ, made visible Flesh and Blood, is still on display for worship in Santarem.
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