M agnificent a g nif ic e n t Journe ys Jo u r ne y s Taking Pilgrims to
Holy Places
Spr i n g 2 0 1 7 | Vol. 10
TM
M
att Tregre is pursuing his pilot’s license. He has logged almost 100 hours of flight time. When he’s not in the air, he plays rugby in Houston with a Catholic men’s rugby team.
Letter from the Founder
Dear Pilgrim Family, As Ray and I look back, words fall short to express the many blessings of the last 18 months. On a personal level, we had two weddings in the family within five months:Andrew and Alexis, and Katie and Mike. Our youngest daughter, Evelyn, graduated from St. Thomas More High School and began her college career. We are also excited that our eldest son, Matthew, will earn his Private Pilot’s License in a few weeks. On Dec. 8, 2015, Pope Francis opened the Year of Mercy, which was significant in many ways, but especially since the year coincided with Magnificat Travel’s 15th Anniversary. Many of our groups had the opportunity to enter the Holy Doors at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. Our dear friend, Roberta, our tour guide in Rome, came to Lafayette, Louisiana, as we celebrated the 15th Anniversary with a banquet (See her story, “Roberta Visits Cajun Land,” on pg. 16). Many of our pilgrims visited with her, and she was smitten with our Cajun Culture. In January 2016, we had 250 young adults and chaperones from five schools attend the March for Life in Washington, D.C. Even though many other groups left before the historic blizzard, Winter Storm Jonas, we decided we would stay and march for all those who could not. That evening the snow shut down the city, and we were stranded in the hotel for four days. We decided to have an impromptu retreat with praise and worship, Masses, a snowmen contest and a talent show.
2
Magnificat Travel
Our 15th Anniversary year was highlighted by three events: Our Anniversary Banquet on Feb. 6, in honor of our Spiritual Directors and Group Leaders had almost 100 people at City Club of Lafayette. Guests joined us from out of state and even Europe. It was an amazing night of joy, affirmation and thanksgiving to God for the Mission of Magnificat Travel. The 15th Anniversary Cruise to Italy, Spain and France aboard the new Royal Caribbean cruise ship, Harmony of the Seas, was such a success with 113 pilgrims/cruisers that we will be doing another in October 2018. Many hearts were touched as we walked through the Holy Doors and came together in conference sessions led by Fr. Michael Russo, Msgr. Curtis Mallet, Fr. Bill Melancon and Fr. Clint Trahan. The year of celebration concluded with a Mass and Pilgrim Reunion at Our Lady of Fatima Church. We prayed for all Magnificat Travel pilgrims, especially those who have passed away, like our dear friend Fr. Jerry Fagin, S.J. It was a blessed time of faith and fellowship. As the anniversary year came to a close, we traveled with more than 1200 pilgrims and missionaries. God continues to bless this ministry, and we are grateful to have the opportunity to be a vessel of God’s grace as we continue taking pilgrims to holy places.
Maria
Tregre
K
atie Tregre and Michael Templet were married at Our Lady of Wisdom Catholic Church on New Year’s Eve, 2015.
A
ndrew Tregre and Alexis Fontenot were married in July 2015 at Our Lady of Wisdom Catholic Church, where Andrew received all of his sacraments.They are now expecting their first child in March 2017.
E
velyn Tregre graduated from high school in May 2016 and she now attends University of Louisiana-Lafayette as an art major.
O ur Mission Magnificat Travel is an apostolate that seeks to “Magnify the Lord” by supporting the ongoing conversion of pilgrims, through facilitating and shepherding journeys to Holy Places. The ministry of Magnificat Travel is intended to aid in building the Kingdom of God by planning, organizing and leading journeys focused on Christian themes and spiritually enriching subject matter.
TA BL E O F CONTENTS 4 Finding comfort in France
After loss, one pilgrim finds blessings in France
5 American Volunteers in Spain & France
A seminarian reflects on his first pilgrimage
Plan your next pilgrimage or mission trip with Magnificat Travel
6 In God’s Hands in Italy
16 Roberta meets cajunland
A couple celebrates their 20th anniversary with a pilgrimage
8 Italy & Poland in the Year of Mercy
Pilgrims see original painting of Our Lady of Częstochowa and walk though holy doors
9 World Youth Day with
10 Puerto Rico
A family goes on mission with St. Mary Magdalen Church
Maria Tregre Publisher
Editor
Christine Fouquier Editor
Brenda Cooper Cooper 8 Editor, Designer Copyright © 2017 Magnificat Travel, LLC
17 Pilgrimages inspire Calls to serve
A priest and a deacon were both ordained after a pilgrimage experience brought their vocations to light
18 March on the Capitol
20 EWTN & The Eucharist
Hundreds of thousands of youth travel to Poland for a visit with the pope
Bonnie Bollich
Our friend from Rome discovers treasures halfway across the globe
High school students stand for life in Washington, D.C.
Pope Francis
Magnificent Journeys 10th Edition
14 upcoming pilgrimages
Pilgrims from St. Joseph Church in Patterson, La., make a Eucharistic pilgrimage during the weekend of the Feast of Corpus Christi
21 Eucharistic Miracles
Magnificat Travel visits sites of Eucharistic Miracles in Santarem, Portugal, and Orvieto, Italy
22 Masses in unusual places 11 cruising home to our father’s love
A couple finds spiritual healing on a pilgrimage cruise
12 15th
Anniversary Events & Cruise
Learn about anniversary events, including our Mediterranean cruise
From a boat, cave or hotel, pilgrims worship God in many places while on pilgrimage
23 Spiritual Directors & Group Leaders
Special thanks to those who have helped lead our journeys
on the cover The Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe is a church, basilica and national shrine of Mexico in Mexico City. The shrine was built near the hill of Tepeyac, where Our Lady of Guadalupe appeared to St. Juan Diego.
Magnificat Travel
3
Pilgrim Witnesses
Finding Comfort in France Pilgrim Dorothy Jordan decided to go to Lourdes, France with Magnificat Travel after she lost two people close to her—her friend Susan and her husband Troy. Shortly after, a client invited her on the pilgrimage. From the moment I arrived in Lourdes, I understood why. The Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary was breathtaking. As I was taking pictures on the balcony, I caught what I can only describe as a miracle in the sun. I consider it to be such a gift. Attending Mass in the Grotto, the international Mass, bathing in the healing water, watching the candlelight procession and rosary—every minute of it was amazing. You can feel the faith in the people and the peace of the place. It is a lifechanging experience to be there. The next few days were spent in Nevers and Lisieux, surrounded by beauty. We were shown some spectacular places. The Basilica of the Sacred Heart (my personal favorite), Chapel of the Visitation
4
Magnificat Travel
Convent (site of apparition to St. Margaret Mary) and St. Michael, just to name a few. To have Mass in the room where Bernadette told her story to the sisters was an unforgettable experience for me. To actually see her beauty incorrupt. Divine! To visit the childhood homes of her and St. Thérèse and learning their histories gave me a The crown of Mary adorns the basilica at the Shrine of Our Lady of greater appreciation for Lourdes in Lourdes, France. who they were, and the Notre Dame and the Eiffel tower were all suffering they endured. The Cathedral of phenomenal. Being able to touch and kiss the Assumption of Our Lady in Chartres the Crown of Thorns was yet another was magnificent. The stained glass was height of this journey and absolutely stunning.To be in the presence of the veil priceless. worn by our Blessed Mother is a blessing I am so thankful I was blessed to be in itself. a part of this trip. Our accommodations Words cannot describe the feeling were superb. Our tour guides were I had at Omaha Beach and the D-Day fantastic.I loved the people traveling in our Memorial. In all its beauty it is definitely a group. It was nothing short of perfection. humbling experience. On to Paris, I have Thank you for this opportunity! to say, Mass at the Miraculous Medal I feel that God himself, along with Chapel was as meaningful to me as Troy and Susan were guiding me to Lourdes. That same peace is also present Lourdes. I needed to have faith and go there. As I sat, my eyes fixed on our where I was being led. Blessed Mother, all I could do was weep. It touched my heart immensely. Sacre Dorothy Jordan Coeur Basilica, Chapel of St. Shawnee, Kansas Vincent De Paul,
Shrine of Our lady of Lourdes in France Photo Credit: Derek Hooper
Pilgrim Witnesses
American Volunteers in spain & france
G
oing to France was an opportunity of a lifetime. I was extremely excited to be able to go to France and visit many holy places that I had only dreamed of. The pilgrimage was a dream come true, and the graces and spiritual benefits I received were truly unexpected. My fellow pilgrims were great people, who God clearly placed on this pilgrimage with me to enhance the experience. From the very beginning of the pilgrimage, we seemed to get along with great love and affection. I will be able to reflect, and draw upon the memories I made for many years to come. Our trip started with a brief trip to Bilbao, Spain, where we visited the Basilica of St. Ignatius of Loyola. We had Mass in the room where St. Ignatius had his convalescence and conversion. This was the beginning of a storybook trip. From Spain we passed through the Pyrenees Mountains to Lourdes, France. This stop was extremely grace-filled and exciting. There was definitely a great sense of holiness, and to be able to pray where the Blessed Mother appeared was an unexpected joy. The scenery and architecture of Lourdes added to the mystery and awe of God’s graciousness to us all. From Lourdes, we went to Nevers where we got to visit the incorrupt saint that Mary appeared to. The peace I experienced while visiting and praying in front of the relics of St. Bernadette was calming and fruitful. We also had a day trip to Paray-le-Monial to see where Christ asked Margaret Mary to further the devotion of the Sacred
Heart. The pilgrimage started off great, and each stop built on to the grace and joys of the previous ones. The first week ended, and we found ourselves traveling to Chartres Cathedral. What an amazing sight, and spectacular feat of human ingenuity. One can tell that those who built the Cathedral had an intense love of God. From Chartres we went to my personal favorite location, Lisieux. Being able to walk around where one of my favorite saints walked and prayed was truly a peaceful experience. I was inspired when we left Lisieux, and felt a great grace bestowed upon me. We made day trips to Omaha beach, the National Cemetery in Normandy, as well as to Mt. St. Michel. Seeing where a great cost of freedom took place was a great cause of thanksgiving for the blessings that we have all received. The last couple of days were spent in Paris visiting Rue de Bac, Sacre Coeur, St. Denis and Notre Dame. Everything in Paris left a real mark on me as well. We were able to venerate the Crown of Thorns, which touched me to the core. Overall, I could not have asked for a better first pilgrimage. The locations were astounding, my fellow pilgrims were fantastic, and great examples of truly holy and prayerful people. I learned a great deal from the trip, the pilgrims and from my being able to pray in such holy places. I am grateful for my experience, and it definitely came at a God-inspired time in my life. Derek Hooper Seminarian, Diocese of Wichita Wichita, Kansas
Photo Credit: Dorothy Jordan
Top: A visit to France includes a view of the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris. Above: Pilgrims view the stunning Mt. St. Michel in Normandy, France. Left: Seminarian Derek Hooper enjoys the sites while on pilgrimage.
Magnificat Travel
5
Pilgrim Witnesses
In God’s Hands in Italy W
Top: Pilgrims Pam and Garry Bass in front of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. Middle: The Basses visit Assisi. Bottom: The couple renews their wedding vows with Fr. Mitch Semar in St. Peter’s Basilica.
6
Magnificat Travel Travel Magnificat
e finally decided to go to Italy. We had talked for 20 years about making this journey. After much discussion, we decided it would be a gift to one another for our 20th anniversary. However, in the back of our minds, we could not help but wonder why we were drawn to a pilgrimage. Little did we know, it was not a decision made totally by us. We discussed safety, and we both agreed that as this was planned by a faith-based organization and a priest and deacon would accompany us, we would be in the care of God’s hands. We traveled to the Houston airport and were met by Fr. Mitch Semar, Deacon Juan Pagán and our group of travelers. It was our first meeting as we are from North Louisiana and the majority of the group lives in South Louisiana. However, we soon became family. Fr. Mitch and Deacon Juan are amazing. They are definitely examples of what our church needs, especially among our younger community. Assisi was our first stop. It is truly the most peaceful place we have ever encountered. The mountains and plowed fields were like a painting. We went to the church and monastery of St. Francis. We saw the miracle of the thornless rose garden, the church given to St. Francis by the Benedictines where St. Francis prayed and began the Franciscan Order, St. Clare’s convent and so much more. We were truly blessed, and the Holy Spirit filled us daily. Each day we asked ourselves if it were even possible to feel more of the presence of God. Every day, we heard Him answer yes. Our next destination was San Giovanni. We learned and experienced the miracles of St. Padre Pio. We visited his church, confessional, resting place, the Cross he was praying in front of when he
received the stigmata, and the hospital he built. These holy sites made you want to fall to your knees and glorify in prayer the man who so loved and lived his life for our God.The highlight of this trip was meeting his fellow Capuchin priest and friend. He talked of the simple prayerful life Padre Pio lived. He displayed and blessed each of us with a glove worn by Padre Pio and the crucifix he kept on his nightstand and kissed nightly before retiring. The last leg of our journey was Rome. Rome moves at a much faster pace, but is nonetheless spiritual. Fr. Mitch suggested married couples renew their marriage vows. Never did we dream of standing in St. Peter’s Basilica and renewing our commitment to one another. Some experiences we could never put into words: encountering the pope in St. Peter’s Square; visiting The Vatican, the four basilicas of Rome, the Coliseum and the Parthenon; daily Mass in each town and city; celebrating Thanksgiving in Rome; enjoying our nightly group discussions; and waiting in anticipation for a scripture reading or other religious treasures from our secret prayer partner. What we first thought was an anniversary trip was and wasn’t. A “voice” kept speaking to us.The decision to follow God’s whisper has changed our lives. Our Catholic faith, our daily way of thinking and praying have been enriched.We now give it all to God and continue to listen when he is “speaking.” We will forever be thankful for His guidance and unending love.
Pam and Garry Bass Bossier City, Louisiana
Take a Pilgrimage to
Poland, Austria, Hungary & Czech Republic
October 16-28, 2017
Call Today for More Information:
337-291-1933 info@holytravels.org | www.holytravels.org
Poland
Czech Republic
• Shrine of Our Lady o f Czestochowa • Birthplace of Karol Wojtyla (St. John Paul II) • Auschwitz Concentration Camp • St. Maximilian’s cell
• St.Vitus Cathedral • Infant of Prague • Old Town Square & Astronomical Clock • Charles Bridge
Hungary • St. Stephen’s Basilica • Boat Ride on the Danube
Austria • St. Stephen’s Cathedral • Ringstrasse and the Hofburg Palace
Magnificat Travel
7
Pilgrim Witnesses
Italy & Poland in the
Year of Mercy
I admit it. I have a wanderlust. I’ve been blessed to have traveled to many places, living my philosophy that God created this beautiful world, and it is my obligation to see as much of it as I can. When I heard about a trip to Italy and Poland, I was intrigued. I’ve been to Italy, but never to Poland. Knowing that I would see the original painting of Our Lady of Częstochowa, hear Mass in the church of St. John Paul II’s baptism and visit the convent of St. Faustina, made the decision to sign up for this trip a very easy one. Our tour started in Rome with visits to some of the traditional sites all visitors should see at least once: the Coliseum, catacombs and the Vatican. We were able to visit some “off the beaten path”
8
churches, shrines and sites that made Rome take on a new look for me. During this Year of Mercy, a significant highlight of my time in Rome was walking through the Holy Doors of St. Peter’s Basilica, St. Paul Outside the Walls and St. John Lateran. How can I forget seeing Pope Francis pass in front of me in his “pope mobile” on a gorgeous Italian summer day? Leaving Rome, we flew to Warsaw, a city on the rise, coming up from the ashes of physical and spiritual destruction wrought by WWII. I was moved to tears by the faith of the Polish people. I continue to be inspired by their steadfastness in extreme times of hardship and struggle. While in Warsaw, we visited the Franciscan Monastery, attended Mass at the church where St. Maximilian Kolbe preached and visited the museum dedicated to his life. The museum contained heart-rendering art depicting his days as a prisoner in Auschwitz. At Częstochowa, we visited the Shrine of the Black Madonna. The painting was beautiful, but it was even more beautiful to see the hundreds of people gathering
Magnificat Travel
in faith to view it. In Wadowica, the home of St. John Paul II, it was wonderful worshipping in the church where he worshipped and seeing where he lived. We went to Krakow and the Shrine of the Divine Mercy. We were able to pray the Chaplet of Divine Mercy with some of the nuns in the very chapel where St. Faustina prayed. During that prayer, St. Faustina’s Diary was on display. The visit to Auschwitz, the Nazi Concentration Camp, was unforgettable, as it should be. The horror that happened there should never be forgotten. Crossing St. Mary’s Square in Krakow that last night, hearing the Trumpeter of Krakow one last time, sharing a meal with my new friends— I can honestly say this was the best journey God has ever sent to me.
Barbara Schmitt Prairieville, Louisiana
Top: Edith Soulier, Barbara Schmitt and Sabrina Martin visit St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. Middle: Fr. Jason Palermo celebrates Mass at the Shrine of St. Maximilian Kolbe. Bottom: Barbara Schmitt enjoys her pilgrimage. Left: Priests celebrate Mass at the chapel at the Shrine of Our Lady of Częstochowa.
Pilgrim Witnesses
Pilgrims Attend World Youth Day with Pope Francis
I
t was Sunday, July 24 when sleepy pilgrims—half from Louisiana and half from Texas—departed for the trip of a lifetime. We were going to walk in the footsteps of saints. We were going to pray with young people from every tribe and tongue, people and nation. We were going to see the Pope. As we gathered, the mosaic of language and culture and unity and faith that is World Youth Day had already begun for us. Anticipating the words of the Holy Father, we began in our own group to build bridges, to share fraternity: “The new generation of young people…have given a response to today’s challenge, they have given the sign of hope…fraternity. Because, precisely in this world at war, fraternity is needed, closeness is needed, dialogue
is needed, friendship is needed” (Wednesday Audience, August 3, 2015). In Poland, Pope Francis spoke to us. “My dear young people,” he began. “Trade in your sofas for soccer cleats,” he said. “Trade ‘vegging out’ for vigor…we came for another reason: to leave a mark” (Vigil with the Young People, July 30, 2016). We return with our cleats laced up and ready to “get in the game,” to leave a mark on our families, our community, and our world. May God bless all of us with the courage to take the risk of falling in love with Jesus and of living His mercy here and now. What a blessed pilgrimage it was!
Deacon S. Brice Higginbotham Seminarian Diocese of Houma-Thibodaux Adapted from an article originally published in the Bayou Catholic Magazine, October 2016
See the Pope in Panama
World Youth Day January 22-27, 2019
Call Magnificat Travel today to make plans for your campus ministry to attend this international communion of Catholic youth in Panama City, Panama.
Call Today:
337-291-1933 877-454-7469 (Toll Free) Pilgrims from Houma, La., and San Antonio,Texas, gather at World Youth Day.
Magnificat Travel
9
Be Transformed on Mission to Puerto Rico I
f you want your heart to be transformed, God can do it anywhere! He does not need great speakers or influential men to show His love. He can accomplish all that He wants in the hearts of those who accept His challenge and simply show up! That’s how it all started: with a quest to serve the Lord, for He has been so good to us! So, we set out on a mission trip with St. Mary Magdalen Youth Group, my husband, myself, and our three children, ages 14,12, 9! Not knowing what to expect, we stayed focused on having a missionary heart. We went to serve without being served, to love without being loved, to have the eyes of Jesus. We were called to step out of our comfort zone and give of ourselves—really give of ourselves! For St. Paul says, “If I give all I possess to the poor and give my body over to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.” One day, we visited the homes of orphan children— infants to teen years. The children silenced us with their love and acceptance of us. The older children stood at the gates of their shared home with huge smiles warm hugs waiting for us to enter into their home! That in itself, as
10
God has shown me a love through these once-strangers that will never be replaced. We connected that day as if we were family! I had no idea of Jesus the way I do now, and that alone makes it all worth it! Finally, after trying, pursuing and loving the people of Puerto Rico, we got it! We were all transformed—seeing and serving as Jesus does, acting as Jesus does! We understood Heaven can be on Earth!
The Dartez Family visits the waterfalls while on mission to Puerto Rico.
a fond missionary friend said, “Is a glimpse of heaven,” just as our Father will welcome us home to His gates of heaven with Him and all His heavenly saints; so did the boys eagerly anticipate us to enter! To see my children interact with these orphaned kids was pure joy that came alive, and the more people they made smile the more their light shown! I didn’t know the rejoicing I would feel as I watched my family serve others, as I saw them praying or longing for more of God. And I sure didn’t know the inadequacy I would
Magnificat Travel
feel as I realized more and more that I was shaping them, helping God make them into the people that He intended them to be. At the end of the day, I had no idea just how powerful, hopeful and humbling it would be to acknowledge that it would be only God who could save them, redeem them and give them hope of a better future, not me. Only He would be with them and their caregivers all the days of their lives and remain with them each day to receive all the glory that is due to Him.
“For love is a choice, and if we choose it, it grows. If we keep choosing love and He keeps choosing us, this, my friend, is the miracle!”
- from the book, “Kisses from Katie, “by Katie Davis. “What are you taking home from this mission trip?” As responded by my 9-yearold boy, “I’m HAPPY!” Sounds simple, but there is nothing that can take away the happiness in life when your heart is fixed on Jesus! I just need to show up!
Tobie Dartez St. Mary Magdalen Church Abbeville, Louisiana
Cruising Home to our Father’s Love C
arl and I embarked on this pilgrimage with heavy hearts. In fact, Carl almost didn’t come. Family issues were weighing on us, but as we all know, no problem is too big for our good and merciful God. He got busy with both of us as soon as we began our journey. We shared our struggle with fellow pilgrims, in confession and in private conversations that resulted in our being willing to open our hearts to God’s abundant mercy and guidance. The Holy Doors were another blessing we did not anticipate God using to minister to us. As we went through them, we could sense the Father saying “Come on in—you are home.” Walking through these beautiful and inspiring basilicas reminds us of the long history of our faith. We realize that we are part of something wonderful and awe-inspiring, our Church.As is our tradition, we lit candles in each place we visited. I believe we are already seeing God answering our prayers. It took us several days to finally allow God to minister to our broken hearts and show us that He has our family situation in hand and will make everything work out for His glory. We are confident in His providence and have left all
things in His hands with our promise to cooperate with His grace in whatever way He calls. Our faith has deepened and our spirituality has grown for having come on this pilgrimage.
The guidance of the Magnificat Travel staff made it so easy to concentrate on God and prayer and not on the trip itinerary and details.
This is what makes Magnificat Travel the top of our list for travel. As a spiritual director, visiting Montserrat was of particular significance.This was the site where St. Ignatius of Loyola laid down his military sword before the Black Madonna and pledged his life to her and to God. St. Ignatius, the founder of the Jesuits, is also the first spiritual director and the model for all directors. I was humbled and inspired to walk in the same place as he. We traveled with the most amazing pilgrims—so generous, so kind and so much fun! We met new friends and got re-acquainted with pilgrims with whom we had traveled on
Above: Joan and Carl Broussard ride a gondola in Venice, Italy. Right: Joan Broussard, Msgr. Curtis Mallet and Carl Broussard enjoy the sites while on pilgrimage.
previous Magnificat pilgrimages. This was a great blessing to all. The Harmony of the Seas cruise was magnificent—a bit too big for us—but great nonetheless. We both went down that giant slide; Carl did the zip line solo with me cheering him on. One of the sweetest highlights for Carl and me was in Marseilles, France. We took a city tour, then sat at a sidewalk café. We drank French coffee, ate French pastries, relaxed and soaked in the atmosphere. I think that is when God lifted the weight from our
hearts. We stopped trying to do it ourselves. We ended our pilgrimage with a wonderful gondola ride and a fantastic Italian lunch in Venice. This will surely be a pilgrimage we will long remember and will be long processing with God’s abundant love and guidance. Joan Broussard St. Anne Parish Youngsville, Louisiana
Magnificat Travel
11
Celebrating 15 Years of taking pilgrims to holy placesTM The 15th anniversary of the founding of Magnificat Travel was celebrated with three events in 2016: a banquet for pilgrimage leaders, escorts and spiritual directors in February; the Anniversary Cruise in October; and a Mass and Pilgrim Reunion on Oct. 30. Magnificat Travel enjoyed an intimate banquet on February 2, 2016, at River Ranch City Club. Founder Maria Tregre used this occasion to thank her family, all pilgrimage leaders, pilgrimage escorts, spiritual directors and staff members who make it possible for us to magnify the Lord on pilgrimages and mission trips. The evening was well attended with some traveling from Dallas, Houston and New Orleans, and there were special guests from Spain and Italy. Leaders, escorts and priests shared stories of pilgrimages and how the journeys have impacted them.The occasion was relaxing with lots of time to visit and honor significant guests. From the a stunning cake and delicious food to the talented string trio, the evening will be remembered for a long time to come.
15th Anniversary Mass and Pilgrim Reunion Magnificat Travel held its 15th Anniversary Celebration Mass and Pilgrim Reunion at Our Lady of Fatima Church in Lafayette, La., on Oct. 30.
The principal celebrant was Monsignor Curtis Mallet, Vicar General of the Diocese of Lafayette. Concelebrating priests were Fr. Steve LeBlanc and Fr. Joel Faulk of St. Pius X Church in Lafayette, Fr. Bill Melancon of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in New Iberia, La., Fr. Louis Richard of St. Mary Magdalen in Abbeville, La., Fr. William Schambough of St. Joseph Church in Milton, LA; and Fr. Keith
Pellerin of St. Philip Neri in Kinder, La. Serving at the Altar were Deacon Barney Lejeune of St. Peter Church in Carencro, La, and Maria’s brother, Deacon Juan Pagån of Our Lady of Wisdom Church in Lafayette, La., who also served as homilist. Deacon Ed Boustany of Our Lady of Fatima also served as Sacristan. Fr. Brandt Montgomery, Chaplain of Ascension Episcopal School in Youngsville, La., vested and processed with the priests and deacons. Karen Melancon led the St. Pius X Church Choir in song, and Kevin Martin was the organist for the Mass. About 300 pilgrims from Louisiana,
Texas and Mississippi gathered afterwards for a reception. Door prizes were a basket of travel goods, a Samsonite luggage set, and a pilgrimage for two to Canada in 2017. Fr. Bill Melancon, spiritual director for the Pilgrimage to Canada, pulled the winning ticket for the pilgrimage, and surprisingly, Monsignor Mallet was the winner. No one was more surprised than those two and the room erupted with laughter and applause. The Mass and reunion were a testament of the role that Magnificat Travel plays in taking pilgrims to holy places, because pilgrimage is not just a physical experience, but a deeply, profound spiritual one.
Anniversary Cruise in the Mediterranean Left: Pilgrims on the 15th Anniversary Mediterranean Pilgrimage Cruise visit St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City.
Top right: Kayla Raffray, Maria and Ray Tregre, and Al Naquin enjoy a gondola ride in Venice, Italy. Near Right: Mass is celebrated at the main altar of the Basilia of St. Paul Outside the Walls in Rome. Pictured (l-r): Deacon Ken Soignier, Fr. Michael Russo, Fr. Bill Melançon, Fr. Clint Trahan, Deacon Barney Lejeune, Msgr. Curtis Mallet. Far Right: Tessa Boustany tries the zip line, one of the amenities aboard the cruise ship.
Sail Away on our Next Pilgrimage Cruise October 4-14, 2018 Orientation & Registration Meeting September 16, 2017 at 10 a.m. Lafayette Location TBA
Call for Details:
877-454-7469 (Toll Free) Magnificat Travel
13
holy places International Pilgrimages
Italy
Holy Land
Canada
Mexico
France
Spain
Central Europe
Portugal
Greece
Germany Oberammergau Passion Play
Plan Your Journey Today:
we visit Domestic Pilgrimages
Washington, D.C.
March for Life
EWTN
New York
Pennsylvania
New Orleans
Mission Trips
Dominican Republic
New Mexico
Puerto Rico
Costa Rica
Call us to schedule your group’s next pilgrimage or mission trip
337-291-1933 877-454-7469 (Toll Free)
Tour Guide Exchange: Roberta Visits Cajunland We all went to have lunch at a local Magnificat Travel’s Italian tour guide, Roberta, and her daughter, pizza place and had so much fun hearing Ilaria, traveled across the globe for that the cook was a little concerned about a cultural exchange in Louisiana. having two Italians as guests; but we had
After years of collaboration, pilgrimages, friendships and invitations, we finally had the chance to visit Louisiana to celebrate Magnificat Travel’s 15th Anniversary! When Maria invited us, we knew it was going to be a trip that we couldn’t miss, and since the first moment we landed in Lafayette, we had the feeling that the week ahead of us was going to be one of the most amazing experiences ever. Maria had the lovely idea to let us spend the night in the beautiful house of an even more beautiful lady, Marianne.They escorted us in the quiet Grand Coteau, where she made us feel like we had been friends forever. The next morning we gathered all around Marianne’s table with Maria’s family and had the most wonderful breakfast, sensing already the importance of family and community that characterizes Louisiana and its people.
We visited Grand Coteau and learned about the miracle of St. John Berchmans, a saint buried in Rome, our city.
16
Magnificat Travel
already learned that food in Louisiana is very good and it turned out to be the best pizza we have ever had in the USA! We ended such a beautiful day celebrating the Holy Mass and giving our thanks to the Lord and the people who made it all so special. It was soon clear that all the following days were going to be just as much memorable, especially thanks to the kindness and hospitality that everyone showed us. From the ladies that pampered us at the spa and at the hairdresser, to all the friends who we usually meet in Rome during pilgrimages, they wanted us to have the best time in Lafayette.
Alexis Darbonne and her husband brought us to see the swamps even though it was pouring rain; Deacon Barney Lejeune escorted us to Saint Martinville and taught us Acadian history; with Andrew Bollich, we went to a1950s-style coffee shop with a juke box; and a family that we had met the previous year on a Magnificat Travel’s pilgrimage invited us over and cooked us many typical Louisiana dishes. The night of the 15th Anniversary Banquet was such an unforgettable experience! It was so incredible to see so many people, even from far away, come together to celebrate Maria and her dedication to a job that has become a mission of faith, possible to change many people’s lives.
We loved all the stories narrated about the travels and the pilgrimages that have taken place over the years, and we were so moved by the affection and love showed to Maria, her family and her staff. Our best wish is that, always guided and inspired by God, she will continue in this direction for a long long time! Another wonderful memory is the trip to New Orleans with Maria, who guided us to St. Louis Cathedral, the Café du Monde and its delicious beignets and treated us to the best hotel in town! We felt like queens!
After so many great experiences, on the way back from New Orleans, Fr. Hampton Davis surprised the three of us by taking us on a fantastic boat ride on the Vermilion river. We love Fr. Hampton for his charisma, humanity and generosity and we will remember that adventure forever! We will never thank Maria and her family enough
for everything they did for us; they have a special place in our lives, and we will hold the memories of this travel and Louisiana dear in our hearts.
Pilgrimages Inspire Calls to serve Joel Faulk Ordained to Priesthood Fr. Joel Faulk was ordained to the priesthood in June 2016. It was a pilgrimage that inspired him to pursue his vocation. He is now a priest at St. Pius X Church in Lafayette, Louisiana. Every man has a vocation, a calling from God to love and serve in a particular way, and every vocation entails a pilgrimage, a journey of faith in which we seek to answer God’s call to move away from living for ourselves and our own earthly will and way, and to move toward living for Him and His heavenly will and way. These vocational pilgrimages of faith, however, are never boring or easy. They are often times full of twists and turns and unexpected hardships and obstacles. The journey of my own vocational pilgrimage to the ordained priesthood has certainly been filled with its share of twists and turns and unexpected hardships and obstacles, including two bouts with leukemia, a 10-year period during which I stepped out of seminary formation, and a heart transplant less than six months after
returning to the seminary. In retrospect I’m glad that my journey took this “scenic route” because it has enriched me as a person, a pilgrim and a priest. The idea of becoming a priest was already stirring in my mind and heart as a young college student when I went on that inaugural pilgrimage in 1995 “A Journey With Our Lady” that spawned the idea of Magnificat Travel. I remember how impressed I was with the holiness of the saints we encountered on that pilgrimage, especially that of St. Jean-Marie Vianney, the patron saint of parish priests. His humble life of sacrifice, poverty, prayer and untiring devotion to, and genuine love for, his parishioners was an inspiration that nourished me in my vocational discernment and seminary formation and that continues to motivate and challenge me as a priest. It helped to show me that the vocation of every priest is to suffer, sacrifice and die with and for Christ and His people, for
Deacon Matt Hebert, Fr. Joel Faulk and Fr.William Blanda celebrated Fr. Faulk’s first Mass in June.
the salvation of souls. That the priestly vocation is a call to the Cross and thus the pilgrim journey that it entails is none other than the way of the Cross, which is the only way of Christ and anyone who would be His disciple. Thankfully, like that pilgrimage in 1995 and like Christ’s own way of the Cross, the priestly vocation is not meant to be a solitary pilgrimage, but is meant to be undertaken as a journey with Our Lady, who quietly and prayerfully walked the way of the Cross with her Son and who lovingly walks the same path with all her priests. And what a joyful journey it has been so far!
Barney Lejeune Ordained to Diaconate I felt the calling to become a permanent deacon for several years, but I did not act on the calling. While sitting quietly in the beautiful chapel at the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament in Hanceville, Alabama on a pilgrimage with Magnificat Travel in 2010, the Holy Spirit spoke to me and said, “When it is your ‘time,’ it doesn’t matter where you are or what you are doing.” I took this to mean that I needed to act upon the calling to the permanent diaconate. As soon as we returned home from the pilgrimage, I told Paula, my wife, of my calling and the words that I heard while praying in the chapel at the Shrine. Paula did not think twice about what I told her;
she immediately responded by telling me to call the diocese to determine what was required and if I was qualified to be a permanent deacon. When I called the Office of the Permanent Diaconate on Monday, I was told that a class was getting ready to form. It was during the class with the men and their wives that I connected with Maria at Magnificat Travel (Maria’s husband Ray was also discerning for the diaconate). I was ordained a deacon on May 21, 2016, at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist in Lafayette, La. I am still learning and adjusting to the duties of a permanent deacon, but thus far it has been extremely rewarding.
Deacon Barney Lejeune, center, celebrates after his first Mass as deacon with his wife Paula, fourth in row, and Magnificat Travel staff members Maria Tregre, Kayla Raffray and Bonnie Bollich.
Barney Lejene Permanent Deacon St. Peter’s in Carencro, Louisiana Magnificat Travel
17
March on the
Capitol W
hen I heard about the St. Mary’s pilgrimage to Washington, D.C., I was excited. Participating in the March for Life had been a dream of mine since high school. The chance to share the experience with my teenage daughter and her schoolmates made the trip more appealing. I could not wait to march with a group of young people passionate about protecting life. Our pilgrimage included a fast-paced schedule of visits to Mount Vernon, the Capitol, the Holocaust Museum, the Smithsonian, a Franciscan Monastery, the Presidential Memorials and Arlington Cemetery. The fruits of the pilgrimage were
greater than I could have imagined. One of the surprises of the pilgrimage was our visit to the Franciscan Monastery. The beautiful church, the grounds and the peace of the monastery were a truly spiritual experience. I didn’t want to leave! The March for Life was on our second full day in Washington.The weather reports were grim, predicting a snowstorm of mammoth proportions. The reports were accurate! As soon as we had marched, we raced back to the hotel where we were snowbound for the entire weekend. The entire city shut down; all government agencies closed; and the airport canceled flights.
Hundreds of thousands attended the March for Life, marching from the Washington Monument to the Supreme Court building.
18
Magnificat Travel
Students March for Life in Washington, D.C.
The escorts from Magnificat who accompanied us took care of every detail when we were traveling and touring Washington. But they really came through when we were snowbound in a hotel with approximately 280 high school students, from five Catholic high schools! They planned Masses, praise and worship sessions, a snow “mascot” contest, time to play in the snow, card games and a talent show. They also made arrangements for the hotel to provide us with three meals a day and unlimited soft drinks. When I talk with the students from St. Mary’s about our pilgrimage, they discuss two things: how they felt participating in the March for Life and how much they enjoyed meeting other pro-life students from around the state. They made new friends, strengthened their faith and joined people from around the nation demonstrating their support for life. While the pilgrimage did not go as planned, I would not change one detail. I will never forget the feelings I had marching in the March for Life. There were people of all ages, walks of life and faiths marching to defend those who could not defend themselves. Around me I could hear chants for life and people reciting the rosary. It was cold and snowing, but I heard no
Mascot Sneauxman Contest What do you do when you’re snowed-in? Play in the snow! In the days following the March for Life in Washington, D.C., when flights were canceled and the city shut down, Magnificat Travel hosted a Mascot Sneauxman Contest for students from the six schools in its group.
Teurlings Catholic High, Lafayette, La.
Shawn Wheat’s daughter, left, and a classmate demonstrate at the March for Life in Washington, D.C., in January 2016.
complaints. The vast number of young people participating in the March gave me hope for the future and filled me with pride. The fact that I shared the experience with my daughter made it even more special. The most memorable moment in the March came when my daughter turned to me and said, “I love you, Mom. Thanks for adopting me.” The pilgrimage was a lifechanging event for me and the high school students with whom I traveled.
Shawn Wheat Natchitoches, Louisiana
Holy Savior Menard, Alexandria, La.
St. Mary’s School in Natchitoches, La.
St. Thomas More, Lafayette, La.
Loyola College Prep, Shreveport, La.
Hanson Memorial High School, Franklin, La.
Book your travel for the 2018 March for Life today
337-291-1933 info@holytravels.org
Magnificat Travel
19
Pilgrim Witnesses
EWTN and the Eucharist
When Fr. Herb Bennerfield visited EWTN Studios and the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament in Hanceville, Alabama, during a retreat in 2015, he knew he wanted to bring his parishioners there. In 2016, Magnificat Travel led a group from St. Joseph’s Church during Memorial Day weekend. As one of our Church’s famed “moveable feasts,” Corpus Christi rarely coincides with our three-day weekend honoring those who died in service to our country. To say the weekend was a spiritual success is, at minimum, an understatement. From our spacious accommodations at the Benedictine Monastery in Cullman, we ventured forth to tour the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament, including a prayer stop at the crypt of Mother Angelica, a highlight for all the pilgrims. Magnificat arranged for us to attend spirituality talks by the Franciscan monks both in Hanceville and in Irondale that were inspiring and challenging. We took a tour of the EWTN studios in Irondale, with everyone marveling at
20
Magnificat Travel
how a worldwide network could function in such a small space. The Holy Hour in which we were privileged to participate was an additional blessing and a foretaste of the “main event” of the next day. The actual Solemnity of Corpus Christi proved to be a day of unforgettable memories: the Mass in the crypt church, praying the Rosary outdoors at the Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto, the excellent tour of the St. John Paul II Eucharistic Center (itself worthy of being a pilgrimage destination), and finally the Eucharistic procession. The procession began in the upper church where Mother Angelica’s funeral had been celebrated only two months before. As a priest it was a special honor for me to participate in honoring Our Lord in such a beautiful and moving way. The memory of all the little girls dressed in their First Holy Communion finery as they tossed rose petals along the path of the procession, the Knight of Columbus in all of their regalia, the altar servers vested in their “Sunday best,” the throng of adorers following their Eucharistic Lord through the immense piazza, the outdoor altars where the procession
Top: Fr. Herb Bennerfield, front right, and other priests serve in a Eucharistic Procession during the Feast of Corpus Christi at the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament in Hanceville, Alabama. Above: Pilgrims take a tour of EWTN Studios.
paused for the faithful to be blessed with the Eucharist—all of it combined to make for an unforgettable and awe-inspiring day. The next day we toured Ave Maria Grotto with its beautiful miniatures of holy sites from around the world. Yes, it was a wonderful weekend, rarer than a day in June, with treasured memories to last a lifetime.
Fr. Herb Bennerfield Pastor, St. Joseph Patterson, Louisiana
Eucharistic Miracles E
ver since Jesus Christ took bread and wine at the Last Supper and declared, “This is my Body…This is my Blood….Do this in memory of me.”, the Catholic Church has remained entrenched in this mystery. Priests, repeating the words of Jesus, are able to come between God and man to administer the sacrament of the Eucharist. It is a difficult teaching that requires much faith, for even the first disciples struggled with accepting this truth. Throughout history, when faith has dwindled in the True Presence, God has allowed miracles to take place in order to bring people back to the truth. These miracles have included the host suddenly bleeding, changing to the appearance of flesh, and more. The Church has accepted hundreds of reported miracles as true and has preserved remnants such as blood stained cloths. Although God does not grant all to see in order to believe, He allows the rest of His people to bask in His goodness to them over the course of time.
Madeline Fontenot, Lafayette, Louisiana
Santarem, Portugal We had heard about the power of the Eucharistic Miracle in Santarem. But, we were not prepared for how strongly we would feel it. There is no doubt that the Real Presence of Jesus Christ, His Presence surrounds you, giving you the sense of being surrounded by grace. There is also an aroma, such a sweetness, that brings peace to the mind and soul.
Anne-Christine Jagneaux, Ville Platte, Louisiana
Orvieto, Italy
The oldest preserved Eucharistic Miracle occurred at the Cathedral of Orvieto. As we approached, I saw a small town located on a mountain. We came to a stop in an area of town that had a large square. In this square was a large beautiful cathedral and a very old palace near the cathedral. In 1263, a German visiting priest was performing the consecration of the Eucharistic prayer in the cathedral, when the host began to bleed onto the altar and corporal cloth. The nearby palace housed the pope, who went to accompany the shocked priest. Walking into the magnificent beauty of this cathedral, I became focused on the large golden glass reliquary that encloses the large corporal bearing the spots of blood. Reflecting on what I had just learned, I was able to visualize the priest lifting and consecrating the host during the Sacrament of the Eucharist as it began to drip of blood. The refection and prayer at this site, marked my heart and fortified my faith. I thought, “How many times things in our lives like this sacrament become routine, a habit with little thought of the actual importance?” Yes, we are all human and we fall short sometimes, but this realization reminded me, as Jesus reminded the priest, the significance of the consecration. During the consecration of the Eucharistic, we should be totally involved in all senses.This is Jesus’s death and resurrection.This is a costly sacrificial gift, which should never be taken for granted. We receive Him when we receive the Eucharist. Stella Souther, Lafayette, Louisiana Magnificat Travel
21
W h y M a g n i f i c at T r av e l
Masses in Unusual Places P
art of the benefit of traveling with Magnificat Travel is that the spiritual leader provides daily Mass. Pilgrims have attended Mass in beautiful places like St. Peter’s Basilica, the Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes and the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.
However, when you’re traveling, this sometimes means that the Celebration of the Eucharist happens in places outside of a church. It’s a testament to the beautiful gift of the priests, and a reminder that we can worship God everywhere.
...on a boat
...on a cruise ship
...at a hotel
...in a field
...in a grotto
...in a crypt
...in an airport
...near a Eucharistic Miracle
...in a cave 22
Magnificat Travel
Special Thanks Spiritual and Group Leaders
to our
M
agnificat Travel thanks the following spiritual directors and group leaders for providing guidance and direction,
helping us succeed in our mission. You make our journeys more memorable, spiritual experiences, and you are all in our prayers.
Fr. Hampton Davis’ group from Our Lady Queen of Peace Church on pilgrimage in Assisi, Italy, congratulate the Most Rev. J. Douglas Deshotel on April 15, 2016, the day of his installation as bishop of the Diocese of Lafayette.
Magnificat Travel
23
P.O. Box 4801 Lafayette, LA 70502
Phone: 337-291-1933 Toll Free: 1-877-454-7469 Fax: 337-291-1935
Learn more about our upcoming journeys and see pictures of recent trips online: holytravels.org facebook.com/holytravels info@holytravels.org
Take a Pilgrimage to
Italy
April 9-18, 2018 See Itinerary Highlights: holytravels.org/perpetualhelp