Spring 2018 | Vo l . 11
M agnificen t Jo urne y s Taking Pilgrims to Holy Places TM
Letter from the Founder
Dear Pilgrim Family, As 2017 rolled in, our family was gifted with the birth of our first grandchild, Amelia Claire. Words fall short as I try to describe the experience. I felt that God had given us an undeserving gift. Amelia was baptized on Easter Sunday. I will never forget the joy of Easter and experiencing the sacrament in the newest member of our family. Andrew and Alexis have embraced their new role as parents with great love and courage. In the same year we welcomed a new life into our family, 300 young pilgrims and chaperones traveled to Washington, D.C., and New York to stand for life in January 2017. During Mardi Gras break, two missions with a total of 80 missionaries traveled to New Mexico and Costa Rica. During Easter break 70 missionaries went to serve in Puerto Rico, and in the following months, many groups traveled on pilgrimage to Fatima, Spain, Lourdes, Italy, Greece, Ephesus, the Holy Land, France, Canada, Poland, Austria, Hungary and Prague. All these journeys magnified the Lord in 949 pilgrims’ lives as they traveled to holy places. I was especially grateful to travel to Italy with my youngest daughter, Evelyn, as she trained to be a Magnificat Travel Escort! As the beginning of the year unfolded,
we realized that with Magnificat Travel’s continued growth, it was time to find a new home for our apostolate. After much prayer and discernment, God showed us where this new place would be, and once again He granted answers to our prayers and gave us a beautiful office space where we can call Magnificat Travel home. The office is spacious; it is in a quiet, centrally located area, and most importantly, we were able to create a chapel. It is here where we begin our day. An altar was specially made for this space by one of our pilgrims, Scott Hebert. We are so thankful for his gift. We moved in on June 29, and the office was blessed on July 28 with a Mass officiated by Fr. Bill Melancon and Deacon Juan Pagán. In September, we had the opportunity to participate at the Priest Convention in New Orleans. What a blessed event this was. It was great being able to see so many of the priests who have been on pilgrimage with us and to meet new priests who have decided to travel with us in 2018. In 2018, the Diocese of Lafayette celebrates its Centennial Anniversary, and the Diocese asked us to put together a pilgrimage for this event.The pilgrimage to Canada will take pilgrims to holy shrines in Montreal, Quebec City and on special visits to GrandPré, Annapolis, and Halifax, as we go back to the roots of the settlers of our diocese. We feel privileged to travel with so many pilgrims
Amelia Claire is the newest addition to the Tregre family, born in February 2017.
from the Acadiana area, accompanied by our own Bishop Douglas Deshotel. Read more about the Centennial Pilgrimage to Canada on page 11. I continue to give thanks to God for my husband, Ray, and my family who have always supported the creation and development of Magnificat Travel, as well as my staff and our team of escorts. As we continue to move forward in our 17th year of serving our Church, I want to sincerely thank you for placing your trust in us to take you to holy places. Be assured that you and your families remain in our prayers!
Maria
Maria
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Magnificat Travel
Tregre
Tregre
Maria Tregre and her daughter Evelyn visit the Cathedral of Orvieto as Evelyn trains to become a Magnificat Travel Pilgrimage Escort.
O ur Mi s sion
TA BLE OF C ON T E N TS
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.
4 I Read the 5th Gospel and it
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.
Changed My Life Forever
A pilgrim’s faith comes alive in visiting the places where Jesus lived and died.
5 Holy Land Pilgrims Find A
Sea
Maria Tregre Publisher
Bonnie Bollich Editor
Change
6 Italy Offers Memories for a
Lifetime
From an audience with the Pope to a visit to the Tomb of St. Peter, a visit to Italy provided an experience of world history, the teachings of the Church and uplifting liturgies.
7 A New Beginning
After celebrating Mass at the Baptistery Chapel in Rome, a priest learns his 86-yearold mother was baptized as a Catholic.
8 Fulfilling a Promise
After being saved by the intervention of Our Lady of Guadalupe, a pilgrim fulfills a promise to visit the shrine in Mexico City.
10 Exploring Roots in
Magnificent Journeys 11th Edition
of
Visiting the Holy Land is an opportunity to grow closer to God for one pilgrim.
Canada
A priest and pilgrims pay homage to the Canadian evangelizers who brought Catholicism to Louisiana’s Acadiana region.
Brenda Cooper Cooper 8 Editor, Designer Copyright © 2018 Magnificat Travel, LLC
Take a unique pilgrimage aboard Symphony of the SeasSM, the newest ship by Royal Caribbean®.
14 Holy Places We Visit
Plan your group’s next pilgrimage or mission trip with Magnificat Travel.
16 Hurricane Maria’s
Impact on Puerto Rico
Maria Tregre’s sister and mother were there as the storm hit. Read their story and be inspired by the resilience of Puerto Rico’s people.
17 No Act of Service is Too Big, Nor Too Small
A teen missionary realizes God’s blessings and gifts while serving people in Puerto Rico.
17 In Memoriam
This issue is dedicated to three special ladies who passed away in 2017: Alberta C. Poydras, Beverly H. Davis and Lena G. Tregre
18 March on the Capitol
High school students join hundreds of thousands of marchers to stand for life in Washington, D.C.
19 Paving the Way for Service 11 Diocese
of Lafayette celebrates centennial with Journey to canada
Learn about Acadiana’s Catholic heritage on a pilgrimage to Canada.
Teurlings Catholic High School students from Lafayette, La. spent their Mardi Gras break serving the people of New Mexico.
20 Staff Picks: Favorite Pilgrimage Spots
Meet the Magnificat Travel Staff and find out their favorite pilgrimage destinations to visit.
21 Magnifying the Lord
Magnificat Travel hosted a training conference for Pilgrimage Escorts aboard a cruise ship.
Christine Fouquier Editor
12 Mediterranean Cruise
on the cover Montreal’s Notre Dame Basilica is one of the crown jewels in Québec’s rich religious heritage. With its dazzling combination of blue and gold, it was the first Gothic Revival style church to be built in Canada.
22 In the Footsteps of Jesus Explore the history of our Catholic pilgrimage tradition.
23 Spiritual Directors & Group Leaders
Special thanks to those who have helped lead our journeys.
Magnificat Travel
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Pilgrim Witnesses
Pilgrim Sid Savoie sails on the Sea of Galilee.
I Read the 5 Gospel th
and It Changed My Life Forever I
t is said taking a pilgrimage to the Holy Land is like the 5th Gospel: You read Matthew, Mark, Luke and John from the Bible, but you read the “Fifth Gospel” as you walk the land.
From a very early age, I’ve been blessed to have the opportunity to travel quite a bit. I have literally been all over the country and all over the world. Every time I experience a new place or culture, it brings me a lot of joy and fills me with fascination. But as soon as I discovered journeys that were fueled by faith and not just by fun, it really changed my life. After I became well versed in missions and pilgrimages, I started thinking about going to the Holy Land. It was never an overwhelming urge, but nonetheless, one that never left me. In January of 2016, I remember hearing stories from one of the Magnificat Travel Escorts about a recent trip to the Holy Land, and I was fascinated.The more she talked, the more I was drawn in, until something clicked, and I made up my mind on the spot that I was going to go. I told God that I didn’t have any money and there were a few other things that needed to be taken care of. Needless
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to say, everything came together, and a little over a year later, I stepped off the plane in Israel. One of the stops on our pilgrimage where I had a really powerful moment was at the Tomb of Jesus. As I entered the empty tomb, I think I experienced the same awe that Peter did when he saw Jesus’ body wasn’t there. As I knelt down to pray, I experienced a stillness and peace like no other. The only other place I’ve experienced such a peace and stillness is when I’m in the presence of the Eucharist. While I only spent a brief few moments in the tomb, it’s something I will remember for the rest of my life. My next “aha moment” came in the Garden of Gethsemane and the Rock of Agony. The weather was slightly overcast, and it gave the garden a very similar look and feel just like in the movie The Passion. I could almost see Jesus and the Apostles in the garden. Knowing that most of the olive trees in the garden were there during Jesus’ time made it come even more alive for me. Getting to touch and pray at the oldest olive tree in the garden, knowing that Jesus and his Apostles passed by that tree and probably used it for shade or rest, was quite a powerful moment.
Shortly afterward, our group had the blessing of celebrating Mass at the altar right in front of the Rock of Agony, where Jesus sweated blood. As I realized that Jesus was present in the priest, the Eucharist and at the Rock of Agony, my faith became even more real and alive. Another noteworthy moment was renewing our baptismal vows at the Jordan River. After leading us in prayer, the priest dipped a branch in the Jordan River and blessed us with the water. In that moment, I could almost see John baptizing Jesus with my own two eyes. To know that we were able to do exactly what Jesus did in exactly the place where He did it had me in awe and wonder. And as if God was trying to outdo Himself, I saw some doves as I was walking back to our bus! My life is forever changed because of this experience. My faith has been strengthened. I will never forget what I was privileged to witness. I would encourage anyone who wants to go to the Holy Land to say yes, and trust in God that He will do the rest! Sid Savoie Factory Worker Lafayette, Louisiana
Holy Land Pilgrims Find A Sea of Change
Take a Pilgrimage to the
Holy Land
Pilgrims from St. Mary of the Purification Catholic Church in Houston,Texas, take a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee during their pilgrimage to the Holy Land.
M
y very first trip to the Holy Land was in July 2017 with St. Mary of the Purification Catholic Church of Houston, Texas. I’m still in a different frame of mind – in a good way – since returning. I just can’t quite explain it. We started our pilgrimage in Northern Israel, in the areas of Galilee and Nazareth, and from there we headed up to Jerusalem. Of course, all the areas remain clearly in my mind, but today, I focus on the first location we lodged. Our hotel overlooked the Sea of Galilee. The lake had such an awesomeness about it at sunrise and in the darkness of night. I remember waking up at 4:45 a.m. on my very first morning there and taking a walk out to the back of the hotel. Sitting there in the quietness and watching the sunrise over the mountains, I could only think “But God!” It was the perfect time to sit and talk with God and, most of all, listen with an openness I had never ever experienced! I would look at that lake and think about the storm we have read about so many times in Luke 8:22-25. I thought
about the storms I have experienced in my personal life. Realizing my storms has revealed what is inside of me and has taught me to run to Jesus for all my help! I’ve come to know Him better. He is my God, my Abba, my Brother, my Teacher and my Friend, and I thank Him each day for taking that journey to Jerusalem and all the way to Calvary! I praise you, Lord Jesus; you are my Salvation! Think about what area of your life will benefit the most by accepting God’s invitation to visit the Holy Land.You will have an incredible opportunity to get know Jesus better. Take a giant leap of faith! Your life will never be the same! Jesus invites us all to enter into a deeper relationship with Him. Consider it time to stop everything and pause and pray about taking a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. Sandra L. Martin Parishioner, St. Mary of the Purification Houston, Texas
Follow in the Footsteps of Jesus with
St. Joseph Catholic Church
Travel:
September 2-11, 2018 Spiritual Director:
Fr. Jason Palermo Call for More Details:
337-291-1933 Magnificat Travel
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Italy offers memories for a lifetime
T
he professional guidance of Magnificat Travel truly helped make everything so easy. As the spiritual director for this journey, the itinerary was well organized, so I was able to focus on the spiritual aspects of this pilgrimage, and the practical aspects just seemed to unfold before us. This is such a blessing when making a true pilgrimage so that the spiritual is preeminent in our travels. As we began in Assisi, we were immersed into the Franciscan spirituality from its beginnings as we prayed through the intercessions of St. Francis, St. Clare and the many saints of Assisi, while enjoying this uniquely medieval town surrounded with preserved architecture that seemed frozen in time. What a gem of a place to begin our pilgrimage in Italy and deep within our souls. We embarked on a journey to the places where Eucharistic miracles have taken place in history; the consecrated bread and wine visually became flesh and blood, and they are there for us to venerate in Orvieto and Lanciano. What powerful blessings and graces that renew our belief in the Real Presence and call to manifesting and becoming the Body and Blood of Christ in the world.
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Visiting the Shrine of St. Padre Pio and the Chapel of St. Michael the Archangel, and making our way to Rome was such a time of spiritual renewal and rejuvenation. As we entered Rome, the hustle and bustle of the city was such a direct contrast to our beginning in Assisi.We realized that the spiritual and powerful presence of God was just as inspiring in the quiet outskirts as it was in the busy metropolis. One of the special moments in Rome was our being able to tour the Scavi catacombs under the altar of St. Peter’s Basilica. As we separated into small groups at different times, this allowed all of us to take this very special tour and be on the same level as the original remains of St. Peter the Apostle, the first leader of our Catholic Church as appointed by Jesus Christ. The crowning moment of our pilgrimage was the audience with Pope Francis, the successor to St. Peter. The weather was perfect, and Magnificat Travel ensured our early access to acquire prime seating to be able to see the Pope and take as many pictures as we needed. What an awe-inspiring and faith renewing pilgrimage. The staff of Magnificat
Fr. Keith Pellerin says Mass at St. Mary’s Chapel in the San Giovanni Rotondo during a pilgrimage to Italy in June 2017.
Travel and their associate tour guides were magnificent to work with and informative about the various histories, customs, traditions and cultures. This pilgrimage was an eleven-day journey of world history, catechism classes, church history, the most amazing liturgies, and all in the greatest of places where God broke through to humanity and manifested a taste of eternity. Molto Gratie! Deus Benedictus!
Reverend Keith A. Pellerin Diocese of Lake Charles
A New Beginning: Priests’ Mother Becomes Catholic as Pilgrims Attend Catholic Charismatic Conference
Fr.Tom Voorhies, his mother Lenore Voorhies and Msgr. Bennett Voorhies at Lenore’s first Holy Communion and Confirmation.
F
or the 50th Anniversary of the Catholic Charismatic Renewal in Rome, we departed on May 29, 2017, from Lafayette, La. At the airport in Newark, N.J., I almost didn’t get on the plane. My Jewish mother, age 86, was having weak spells, but my sister insisted I go. Immediately upon arrival, we visited the Colosseum and then St. Paul’s Basilica, where we had Mass in the Baptistery Chapel. Later, I got the news that my sister had baptized my mother upon her request just about an hour after we had finished our Mass in the Baptistery Chapel dedicated to St. John the Baptizer. I had prepared my sister for this, knowing that Mom had been having these weak spells. I shared the news with our group of pilgrims, who erupted with great joy and applause. It has been a long time prayer of our family for this to happen. My brother is also a priest, and we have two sisters.
After returning, I confirmed Mom, and my brother gave her First Holy Communion. God is good.
Pilgrims attend the Catholic Charismatic Renewal Golden Jubilee Pilgrimage in Rome in June 2017.
Catholic Charismatic Conference I studied in Rome for four years, so I’ve seen a lot there and have led a number of pilgrimages too. What attracted me to this pilgrimage was the Charismatic Conference.
Fr.Tom Voorhies says Mass in the Chapel of Peace in Assisi, Italy.
The Masses in St. Mary Major and St. John Lateran Basilicas were really special because we were able to sing modern worship songs.That was really new for me there in those beautiful basilicas. The two meetings in Circus Maximus, where most of the early Christians were martyred, were most special. More than 50,000 pilgrims singing their hearts out was electric.The Holy Spirit was really moving among us. Finally we had the Pentecost Mass in St. Peter’s Square, which I was able to concelebrate. Our group was so overwhelmed with all the graces we received. Thank you Holy Spirit!
Rev. Thomas Voorhies Diocese of Lafayette Magnificat Travel
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Fulfilling a Promise at the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe
E
ver since a heart operation nearly 10 years ago, when I believe I was saved due to the intervention of Our Lady of Guadalupe, I wanted to fulfill a promise and visit the shrine. Finally, I had the opportunity to do so when Fr. François Sainte-Marie announced the forthcoming pilgrimage. I live mainly in the United Kingdom with my wife, Penny, but we have a summer home in the province of Malaga in Spain, which is where we met Fr. François. I was delighted that my wife, who is a member of the Anglican Church, agreed to go with me. It was still with some trepidation that we made our commitment, not knowing the essential details of the itinerary nor the length of our journeys, but relying on our previous experience of another pilgrimage in Europe with Fr. François. As soon as we arrived in Mexico, we knew we were in good hands. We could sense immediately the efficiency and experience of our pilgrimage operators, and when we arrived at our hotel, we were agreeably surprised at the attention of the staff, the speed with which luggage was dealt with, and the very attractive hotel ambience. Also we could not help but notice the genial but authoritative presence of the man who was to be our tour guide. We were to experience how wonderfully well-paced the pilgrimage was to be, as well as the absolutely lovely people who accompanied us on the pilgrimage, and in our case, the reassuring presence of the owners of Magnificat Travel. Gabriel, the tour guide, was magnificent. He was Church of the Holy Family
knowledgeable, well organised, and friendly, spoke wonderful English, and together with his wife Maria, did everything to make each and every adventure meaningful and enjoyable. His eyes and ears were everywhere, and his attention to detail worthy of comment. Unsurprisingly, and based on our previous experience, Fr. François proved to be a wonderful, informed, sensitive and witty spiritual director. Each day would begin with Mass and a participative sermon. We would then begin our visits to the historical and religious sites. Lunch was always well organised and satisfactory. Pre-dinner drinks in the hotel to chat about the day, followed by dinner in the hotel and then a sharing experience were particular highlights. This exchange of personal views and motivations for being on the pilgrimage helped us get to know one another very well indeed, and it was a humbling experience as we truly began to share each other’s spirituality and motivations for being on the pilgrimage, as well as our prayerful hopes and expectations. On our first day, we visited the church built over the site where the Blessed Virgin visited and cured the uncle of Juan Diego. Another day we visited the wonderful university city of Puebla de Los Angeles.We visited the Shrine on two occasions, once on a busy Sunday, participating in the cathedral Mass with Father François concelebrating, and also on a less busy Monday, when we also had the opportunity to visit the church dedicated to where the apparition occurred to Juan Diego.We also visited other beautiful chapels and surrounding areas of devotion.
Penny and Patrick Byrne traveled from the United Kingdom to take a pilgrimage to Mexico with Fr. François Sainte-Marie in February 2017.
It is hard to do justice to the pilgrimage in such a short passage, but it must be said that the organisation was truly wonderful and also included some cultural site visits, such as to the pyramids and an invitation to the splendid Mexican Ballet at the National Theatre. All in all, the pilgrimage was complete in every detail, and all the spiritual and cultural experiences were unforgettable. We could not wait to get home to tell all our friends and family about it. Thank you, Magnificat Travel.
Patrick Byrne Retired Motor Company Executive Shenfield Brentwood, Essex, England
Rosary Chapel in Puebla
Pyramid of Teotihuacan
Take a Pilgrimage to Mexico
Pilgrim Witnesses
Travel to Mexico City, Mexico, to see sites significant to the apparitions of Our Lady of Guadalupe to St. Juan Diego
Fr. Jaison Mangalath, S.V.D.
Travel: June 18-23, 2018
Spiritual Director
Itinerary Highlights • Shrine and Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe
• Church of the Miracles in Tepeyac • Aztec Pyramids of the Moon and Sun • Cathedral in Puebla • Church of the Holy Family • Folklore Ballet Performance
Call for Details:
337-291-1933
www.holytravels.org
Toll Free: 1-877-454-7469
Magnificat Travel
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Exploring Roots in Canada, Pilgrims Enjoy ‘Miracle’
A
t the 15th Anniversary celebration for Magnificat Travel, three items were up as door prizes: some travel items, a set of beautiful luggage and a pilgrimage (either Mexico or Canada). Truthfully, my heart was set on the luggage. Mine is kind of ratty, and this looked like uber-luggage! I nearly lost my false teeth when I won the pilgrimage. I know it might have looked rigged, but it wasn’t (believe it or not)! I looked at my calendar and Canada worked best. I love Canada. It holds so many attractions for me—(1) my French Catholic roots, (2) Canadian people are probably the nicest people on the planet, (3) natural beauty that competes to be the most beautiful in the world, (4) Canada’s rich history… I could keep going… This time I was going on a pilgrimage not as the chaplain but as a simple pilgrim. On top of that, Fr. Bill Melancon and I have been friends since Moses was a teenager. We both have mellow introverted personalities, but with welldeveloped people skills. I knew from the beginning that I would help Fr. Bill with some of the priestly duties; after all, being a priest is not something that turns on and off but is a vocation. Plus, serving as the
main celebrant at some of the awesome churches we visited is irresistible. Here are some of the highlights for me. On the bus I taught the pilgrims my favorite French hymn, “J’ira la voir un jour,” a tender hymn (lullaby) to the Blessed Mother:
“J’irai la voir un jour Au ciel dans la patrie Oui, j’irai voir Marie Ma joie et mon amour.” Translated: “I will go to see her one day in heaven, my homeland Yes, I will go to see Mary My joy and my love.” I have visited Canada about a half dozen times, but I had never made it to the shrine of St. Kateri Tekakwitha, which is just outside of Montreal. I marveled at how humble the shrine was for such an important saint to all of North America. The shrine mirrors her humility. Canadians are ahead of the game when it comes to respecting native people, or as they say, the First Nations. Kateri witnesses to sticking with the faith no matter what it costs you. It cost her ridicule, family estrangement, beatings and nearly her life.After all of that penance, she took on self-imposed penances once she reached the “Holy Land” of the Jesuit mission village, where
Peggy’s Cove in Nova Scotia
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Magnificat Travel
Notre Dame Cathedral in Québec City
Deportation Cross in Nova Scotia
she could finally practice her faith without mistreatment. We must pray through her intercession for the conversion of all of North America. At the Notre Dame Basilica in Montreal, one word comes to mind—blue. It’s a beautiful architecture but the real treat is the blue background behind the high altar and the saints in the main sanctuary. It definitely says,“this is Mary’s house.” The interior was inspired by Sainte-Chapelle in Paris, where the crown of thorns is kept. Unfortunately, like so many basilicas around the world, it is necessary to charge admission because of huge heating bills, constant restoration and, sadly, fewer and fewer practicing Catholics. Catholics in Canada account for half of the 91 percent Christian population, but weekly attendance is only about 13 percent. The practice of religion is now generally considered a private matter. Canada has suffered seriously from aggressive secularism.
Acadiana is Catholic primarily because we were evangelized by Canada. I think that we should do everything we can to re-evangelize the evangelizers. Pilgrimages are part of the effort. I will describe the end of our pilgrimage as the “Miracle of Grand-Pré.” Port Royal is where our Acadian ancestors made their living and lived their Catholic faith.We were greeted by a local tour guide, who looks and sounds uncannily like Fr. Michael Champagne. The plan was to have Mass on the beautiful grounds of the Grand-Pré National Historic Site. There is a little chapel there, which is really not a chapel but more of a visitor’s center.Well, it began to drizzle, meaning that we need a sheltered place for Mass. By this point we had developed a great relationship with our guide. He could see how proud we are of our Acadian heritage, meaning Grand-Pré is a kind of “holy ground” for us. We looked at the little chapel, which as I wrote, is not really a chapel.
Diocese of Lafayette
at Grand-Pré Hmm? All we could do was ask. And ask we did. I quickly prayed the Magnificat three times, as I often do when I am asking of Mother Mary a special favor. He looked at our little group of Cajun, Puerto Rican, and Texan beggars in silence, his wheels obviously spinning. He said, “It’s nearly closing time, can you wait until the other people leave?” “Absolument!” And so, the Miracle of Grand-Pré happened. Was it the only Mass ever celebrated in that little chapel which was not a chapel? I don’t know. We had risked another Grand Dérangement (grand expulsion). However, my soul was truly at peace as I pronounced the words of consecration with Fr. Bill and gave Holy Communion to our little band of pilgrims, faces filled with faith and gratitude as once again we met Jesus in the chapel that isn’t a chapel. There always seems to be at least one miracle on every pilgrimage I have made with Magnificat Travel. And we sang “J’irai la voir un jour” one last time, with glistening tears in the lovely eyes of faith. The purpose of a pilgrimage is concentrating on the journey of our soul. We leave behind the distractions of our daily life—pray, eat, and travel with new friends chosen by grace who are on parallel paths. Pilgrimage is a reset, a relearning and the open return to the still small voice of the Holy Spirit. This pilgrimage was especially important to me because it’s my jubilee year—25 years as a priest—a remarkable Holy Orders pilgrimage. I have spent much time this year reviewing my life, thanking God for the graces and even for the pain. My little advice: renew your pilgrimage journey for five minutes today. Remember that you are on a journey and that the best is yet to come. Blessings and unexpected graces to each of you, pilgrims all!
Msgr. W. Curtis Mallet, JCL, VG Diocese of Lafayette
Centennial Pil�rima�e to Canada
Experience the rich French heritage of Québec as we take a spiritual journey to Montréal and Québec City. In Nova Scotia explore our Acadian heritage.
Aug. 27- Sept. 5, 2018 Bishop Douglas Deshotel Fr. Cedric Sonnier & Fr. Paul Broussard Call for Details:
337-291-1933 Magnificat Travel
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Mediterranean Pilgrimage Cruise SPIRITUAL DIRECTORS: Msgr. Curtis Mallet, Vicar General, Diocese of Lafayette Fr. Bill Melancon, Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church
OCTOBER 4 -14, 2018 Take a unique pilgrimage aboard Symphony of the SeasSM, the newest ship by Royal Caribbean®
VISIT HOLY SITES Magnificat Travel pilgrimage excursions to holy sites at select ports give you time to pray and reflect FIND A SPIRITUAL FOCUS Mass will be offered daily, either at port or on the ship, and priests serve as spiritual directors MAGNIFICAT TRAVEL ESCORT Your journey is fully escorted by a Magnificat Travel staff member, who coordinates all the planning and details for stress-free travel
“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.”
Call for Details:
877-454-7469 (Toll Free)
- Joan and Carl Broussard 2016 Anniversary Cruise
Itinerary Highlights DAY 1: DEPART DAY 2-4: BARCELONA, SPAIN Arrive in Spain, and travel to Montserrat to stay at the Benedictine Monastery Hotel. Visit the Holy Cave of St. Ignatius in Manresa. Take a bus tour of the city, visit the famous basilica, Sagrada Familia. DAY 4: BARCELONA, SPAIN Board the Symphony of the SeasSM. DAY 5: PALMA DE MALLORCA,
SPAIN * A rugged island with fine beaches, Mallorca welcomes travelers seeking sun, sea, and sand. Palma is home to a lively café and arts scene, historic sites and an Old Town of twisting lanes and hidden courtyards. The massive Gothic cathedral is poised on a sea wall above the marina. Visit the Home of St. Junipero Serra. DAY 6: MARSEILLES, FRANCE* France’s oldest city is one of its most dynamic, with a melting pot culture and vibrant arts scene. The soul of the city is its Vieux Port, the waterfront once known as the gateway to the Mediterranean. Choose to visit Notre Dame de la Garde, Fort SaintJean with Château d ’If, from Count of Monte Cristo fame.
DAY 7: FLORENCE (LA SPEZIA),
ITALY * Magnificat Travel pilgrims will travel to Genoa to visit St. Catherine of Genoa and the Cathedral of St. Lawrence. Also view the famous Tower of Pisa. Or take a Royal Caribbean tour to Florence, Italy, and take a walking tour of the city, visit the Academy where you can view the famous David by Michelangelo, see the famous Cathedral di Santa Maria del Fiore (St. Mary of the Flower) and simply enjoy the ambiance of this beautiful city. DAY 8: ROME, ITALY We will travel by luxury motor coach and tour the Eternal City. See ancient Rome, the Coliseum and view the beautiful Trevi Fountain. We will visit St. John Lateran, Rome’s Cathedral, and the “Holy Steps.” Also celebrate Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica. Or you may want to partake of an optional tour of the Vatican Museum.
DAY 9: NAPLES (CAPRI), ITALY * Visit the Sactuary of St. Philomena and Cathedral of St. Andrew. One of Europe’s oldest cities, Naples is vibrant and filled with rich artistic and architectural heritage. Royal Caribbean will offer an optional tour to nearby sites including the ruins of ancient Pompeii, the idyllic resort isle of Capri, and the jewel-like towns that dot the Amalfi Coast. DAY 10: CRUISING This day will be filled with many opportunities for prayer, relaxation, and fun. Pilgrims will participate in Conference talks by our Spiritual Directors, Monsignor Curtis Mallet and Fr. Bill Melancon. Fr. Bill will also offer his popular “Painting With Prayer” this day – no painting experience required – for this time of Scripture reflection. DAY 11: DISEMBARK IN BARCELONA & RETURN TO USA
EXCURSIONS *are OPTIONAL offered by the cruise line for additional fees at these ports. Magnificat Travel Pilgrimage Excursions are included with your package.
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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
New York
Eureka Springs, AR Passion Play
California Missions
Hanceville, AL
Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacarment
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)
Arial image of Puerto Rico following Hurricane Maria
Hurricane Maria
Impact on Puerto Rico, Maria Tregre’s Homeland Maria Tregre’s sister and mother were in Puerto Rico as Hurricane Maria hit the island. Read more about her sister’s story.
Our eighty-seven-year-old mom’s dream was to go back to Puerto Rico one more time to visit her bedridden older sister. The trip was postponed twice by hurricanes Harvey and Irma; however, we were able to start our travels on the third try, on Sept. 16. As we approached the island, the views from the plane were breathtaking and confirmed that Puerto Rico is “La Isla del Encanto” (The Island of Enchantment).
Elena Soltero
Elena and Evaristo Pagán
As we landed, we heard the news for the first time: Hurricane Maria was approaching. At the time, there was not enough information on its strength, nor if or when it would strike. Hurricane developments happened quickly, even as we arrived at our hotel. On the first day after our arrival we visited my aunt at the nursing home. The weather was hot and muggy. The hurricane was getting stronger. By the second day, we decided to take precautions of our own: let’s get a flight back to the States. We were confirmed on a flight scheduled before the hurricane arrived, but it was cancelled as Maria had increased speed and would definitely strike the
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island as potentially one of the strongest hurricanes ever. We knew our only option was to prepare and weather the storm in our hotel.
The Storm
At 4 a.m. on Sept. 20, the eye of Hurricane Maria began its path off destruction through Puerto Rico. Even though we were “safe” in our hotel, through our very sturdy glass windows I could see and hear the strength of the winds. It was as if many tornadoes were touching down simultaneously. Nature was shaking. Rivers were rising. House roofs were flying. The barometric pressure felt as if our bodies were going to explode. It was a very long day, 17 hours of this madness that alluded to many Biblical scenes. The words of Psalm 91, Psalm 23, and “Sagrado Corazon de Jesus, En Vos Confio” were constantly moving around my brain, as if the subconscious was kicking in for what the conscious could not fathom. Prayer was the only life vest.
After the Storm
Little by little we received confirmation and gave thanks to God that all our loved ones on the island were fine and that their homes had survived the storm with minor damage, if any. It is at this time that we begin to experience what has become the saga of Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico: no electricity, no water, no phone signal, no internet, no television nor radio signal. Major roads were blocked with trees and debris. No communication. The hurricane was the deadliest in the last hundred years. Mom and I stayed on the island for two weeks until the airport re-opened and we could fly back to the States. Upon our return, I was dumbfounded
to finally see and hear the news about the situation in Puerto Rico. I was saddened to see that it had become a political issue.
The picture did not show what I experienced in Puerto Rico after the storm. I witnessed the kindness and faith, the love and patience, the hard work and empathy, the people helping people, regardless of how hard some were impacted. I witnessed that no electricity is necessary to light the way of your fellowmen, that no telephone or internet signal is required to communicate love to your neighbor. I witnessed fun time spent in conversation and sharing experiences without televisions, tablets or smart phones. I witnessed an island that, regardless of the big challenges ahead, is an island of great faith in God.And I witnessed many people coming together from many parts of the world to help Puerto Ricans recover from this great catastrophe. As long as the indelible faith and spirit of the Puerto Ricans remain, as long as love and charity prevail in the faces of all who come to give the very needed help, Puerto Rico will rise again. I am thankful Magnificat Travel is a helping hand, collaborating in the recovery of Puerto Rico via mission trips, donations and pilgrimages. Elena Pagán Accountant, Houston, Texas
No Act of Service is Too Big, Nor Too Small I am a 17-year-old, proud Catholic. Before attending the Puerto Rico mission trip, my faith was missing something, and I wasn’t sure what it was. I searched and prayed to God, but nothing was fitting into the hole in my heart. I didn’t know what to expect when I left, but I knew it had to be good, because love filled the air the moment I got on the bus. The first day of service was the most impactful day of service I have ever experienced. My dad came with me on the trip, and I wanted to branch away from my friends and work on our relationship as well, so I went with his group. I was nervous, because we were the only group that was assigned to someone’s house that day. I didn’t know what to expect walking into someone else’s home in a place I didn’t know. When my group arrived, we were introduced to a woman who couldn’t walk and had several problems due to a horrible accident when she was young. She was homebound. Her mother was also very old, and it was hard for her to clean the house and make sure it was perfect for her daughter. So, we all split
In Memoriam While 2017 brought many joys to the Magnificat Travel Family, it also brought sadness at the loss of three dear friends of Magnificat Travel. In February, God called Mrs. Alberta Poydras home. Alberta and Maria were co-workers at Our Lady of Wisdom Church. There, Alberta attended her first pilgrimage in May 1995. After that, she was always ready to go on another pilgrimage, as long as it was God’s will. She participated in more than 10 pilgrimages, and when she was not able to go, she was always on our prayer team. She was an amazing woman of faith.
up and did the most we could do to make their home look spotless. It was what we did after that struck me. One of our mission directors, Manolo, brought his guitar and started to lead us in praise and worship songs. We gathered around her and danced, laughed, listened, sang and worshipped God. It was like there was nothing dividing us. Before we left, Manolo prayed with her one last time. She prayed for more surprises, because the surprise we gave her that day meant the world to her. She was not the only one rewarded by God that day, because I was too. I was blessed with the gift to see her smile, to see her laugh and to see her love her life in that very moment.That was one of the greatest gifts I have ever received. For the rest of the trip, my faith was on fire, but it was different. Before, I was only focused on improving my spirituality, but I then realized that a good faith also contains acts of service. I poured everything I had into serving others. I loved to see others smile from the happiness brought upon them even from such small acts. Serving is what I Mrs. Beverly Davis, a dear friend of the Tregre family and Magnificat Travel, also passed away. She always opened her home to whatever we needed. Beverly’s Alberta C. Poydras first pilgrimage was the same as Alberta’s, and then she attended more than 14 pilgrimages. We loved her dearly and we miss her. As the year was coming to a close, Mrs. Lena Tregre, Maria’s mother-in-law, was also called home. From the time Maria met Ray, Lena opened her home and heart to her as if she was one of her daughters. Lena loved her family,
like to call a win-win. The person serving feels amazing for bringing happiness upon others and the person being served is now blessed with something they Madeline Busch don’t normally receive. How great is that? So, for me, the overall lessons of the Puerto Rico mission trip was that it made me realize no act of service is too big nor too small, and there are people in this world who only wish for the simplest of things. Sometimes they just want someone to make them smile. Not only did I learn that, but the hole in my heart and in my faith was filled. Madeline Busch St. Thomas More Catholic High School Lafayette, Louisiana
Beverly H. Davis
Lena G. Tregre
especially her grandchildren. While she was not able to go on pilgrimage, she was always supportive of Magnificat Travel and our ministry. We are grateful for the lives of these three women of faith, and we dedicate this 2018 edition of “Magnificent Journeys” to their memories. Magnificat Travel
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More than 250 students and adults attend Mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City, following the March for Life in Washington, D.C.
March on the Capitol
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here is no better feeling than to take a stand against something that is wrong. That is what the March for Life in Washington, D.C., is all about. I attended the March for the first time in 2016, and it was an eye-opening experience for me and everyone else involved. Our school organized about 50 people to go and make a stand for life. The trip started once we got off of the plane in Maryland and immediately headed for holy sites. Mount St. Mary’s University was our first stop; while there we visited the National Shrine Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes. It was a solemn and meaningful prayer time. The museum and shrine for St. Elizabeth Ann Seton was our next stop, where we learned about her charity and life as the first American-born saint. This journey was filled with stops other than just religious places. Our second day started with a somber tour of Arlington Cemetery. Upon watching the Changing of the Guard, I couldn’t help but shed a few tears at the sheer amazement and love I was feeling for our country. Next, we traveled to the Holocaust
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Museum. This realistic display of the horrors of Nazi Germany gave everyone a new appreciation and understanding for how life matters. It helped add a new dimension of understanding for the Right to Life movement. We went to the Franciscan Monastery after the museum.The inside of the chapel is filled with accurately placed symbols of Jesus’ death and tomb placements. The paintings on the walls depict incredible scenes of saints, Jesus and other religious symbols. Every aspect of this church reaffirms one’s faith and helps give physical images of what is described in the Bible. The night was closed by attending the Vigil Mass in honor of the March. It was extremely moving to be present with so many other Catholics. The March for Life began on the third day. The rally that occurred beforehand was amazing. It was the first time that the sitting Vice President of the United States had ever attended. The powerful speeches by Vice President Mike Pence and other speakers were amazing. The crowd that gathered was bursting past the perimeter of the fence.
I was lucky enough to stand 15 yards from the stage and could only see the tops of people’s heads as I looked into the horizon. Once the March started, it was like nothing I had ever seen. There were a few people we met who had attended for many years, and they claimed to have never seen that many people present. It was amazing to witness and be a part of this experience. The trip was rounded out with a brief stay in New York City, where we were blessed enough to visit the 9/11 Museum and attend Mass in the awe-inspiring St. Patrick’s Cathedral. I encourage anyone considering attending to do so, as it is a truly life changing experience.
Yancy LeGrande Pro-Life Group President Senior at St. Mary’s Catholic School Natchitoches, LA
Paving the Way for Service High School Mission to Zuni, New Mexico
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n the land of my birth we have a saying: “March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb.” I certainly hope that this truism will apply to Zuni 2017. Lulled into a false sense of security at the end of February, we were suddenly hit by a massive snowstorm that brought everything to a sudden halt. As it turned out, a group of students from Teurlings High School in Lafayette, Louisiana, were scheduled to help out at St. Anthony’s the first week of March. I was somewhat hesitant about this, mostly because the group numbered 55 people. There was no way to house them all, let alone keep them productive. So Sr. Marsha and I came up with a plan where the volunteers would sleep in Gallup (35 miles away), and we would bus them into Zuni each day to work on our “Chain Gang Project.” We had our plans, but March (as it turned out) had its own! On their first work day, the roads were so packed with snow that we didn’t dare send out the bus. For many of the Louisianans, it was their first experience of real snow! The next day was Ash Wednesday and after that came Friday, both of which we were conscious of in our Lenten observance. On Ash Wednesday we had close to a hundred extra folks in attendance at our traditional school Mass. The school had prepared a beautiful liturgy with students singing, reading and praying. Our visitors brought a priest from Nigeria and a deacon, originally from Puerto Rico, so we were much blessed. Everyone received their “ashes” and the students and visitors quickly forged a bond. Some visitors “buddied” with the pre-K and Kindergarten kids, some took part in a reflection time with the junior high, and the balance of our visitors joined the “chain gang.”
Above: Teurlings Catholic High School students from Lafaytte, La., spent their Mardi Gras break serving the people of New Mexico.
We have been struggling to deal with the mud problem in the school play area. Our maintenance men had laid 103 tons of gravel as a base in preparation for 60 tons of asphalt.As it turned out, the sun reappeared, the snow disappeared, and before I knew it, I saw our students spreading asphalt in the school yard with their new friends! I admit that I’m fairly tight-fisted when it comes to spending St. Anthony’s meager resources, but I’m not such a slave driver that I envisioned employing our students as manual laborers! Members of our staff pitched in as well. Although the project is far from complete, for a fraction of the estimated cost we have achieved a great deal. But most importantly, our students took “ownership” of their school. These volunteers from Louisiana had a great impact. Fervor for studies has increased as has parental participation; the levels of laughter in the cafeteria grow daily. What a joy it is to be here! I have been receiving e-mails from Louisiana telling me
how much their students were affected by the experience…. “Spring Break” groups are legendary, usually in a negative way. However that has not been my experience with the groups who come to St. Anthony’s.They bring with them a gift that I cannot give to our pupils: peer groups looking to do selfless deeds, sharing their experiences and letting our kids know there is a world outside of Zuni filled with wholesome opportunities in which their potential can be unleashed. I believe that it is all part of the holistic approach to education that enables our young students to grow in mind, body and spirit. This year especially has been an enriching experience for everyone, yours truly included. I am deeply indebted to the groups that come and make such a difference in all our lives.
Fr. Patrick Diocese of Gallup Magnificat Travel
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Staff Picks: Favorite Pilgrimage Spots Marty Hebert Marketing & Development Director
The Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe The sign of hope that our Lady brought to all of us there and her call to live in the love and truth of her Divine Son makes this a very special pilgrimage destination.
Bonnie Bollich Administrative Assistant & Land Transportation Manager
San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy St. Padre Pio lived and worked in this quiet and peaceful town. It is a true place of serenity. “Pray, hope and don’t worry.” ~ Padre Pio
Christine Fouquier Business & Airline Manager
The Holy Land Throughout our lives we read the Gospel stories that take place in the Holy Land, but to actually be there venerating and worshipping has brought a profound and renewed experience of Scripture, prayer, and meditation to my spiritual life.
Kayla Raffray Pilgrimage Administrator
Rome We get to see a glimpse of the magnitude of our church, our home. You really get a sense of the Universal Church at St. Peter’s Square during a Papal Audience and see so many people of different cultures from around the world excited to see our Pope.
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Rachel Boulanger Pilgrimage Administrator
Fatima, Portugal While we were in Fatima in 1997, I left special prayer requests for some dear friends at the Shrine - and they have since been answered!
Joanie Legendre Pilgrimage Administrator
The Holy Land To walk the path that Jesus walked on The Via Dolorosa is a pilgrimage that is sure to draw you into a more intimate relationship with Christ.
Madeline Fontenot Support Staff
Assisi, Italy It is beautiful and peaceful, whether you are praying at St. Francis’ tomb or looking out on the top of the hill at all of the olive trees.
Jori Bercier Support Staff
Kotlik, Alaska Missions have allowed me to build friendships with both the locals and fellow missionaries who have in turn shown me authentic love and mercy.
Evelyn Tregre Support Staff
Barcelona, Spain I love Spanish culture and history. My favorite place to visit is Sagrada Familia Cathedral. The artistry, craftsmanship and history are breathtaking.
Magnifying the Lord
Magnificat Travel Escort Training Conference Magnificat Travel held its annual meeting for its escorts aboard ship this year. Several days of fellowship, education and fun were enjoyed by the whole Escort Team. Escorts spent time sharing ideas on how to better serve our pilgrims and Spiritual Directors. Other topics included improving communications with tour guides and sharing what’s new at Magnificat Travel. Fr. Bill Melancon served as Spiritual Director, providing spiritual guidance and celebrating daily Mass for the group.
Magnificat Travel
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In the Footsteps of Jesus The History of Our Catholic Pilgrimage Tradition “Pilgrimages evoke our earthly journey toward heaven and are traditionally very special occasions for renewal in prayer. For pilgrims seeking living water, shrines are special places for living the forms of Christian prayer ‘in Church.’” – Catechism of the Catholic Church “Guides for Prayer”
Today We may travel differently today, by car, plane and bus instead of by horse, carriage or by foot, but we continue to make pilgrimages as a spiritual exercise.
900 AD 100 AD
Specific shrines became pilgrimage destinations. Canterbury, Santiago, Cologne and Rome were especially popular.
The first pilgrimages were journeys to the Holy Land made by people who wanted to follow the Via Dolorosa, the Way of the Cross, as a means of meditating on the pain and suffering of our Lord before his death.
MiddleAges
300 AD By the fourth century, shrines
were erected at these holy places, and pilgrimages to Jerusalem became popular as a devotional practice. Among the first documented pilgrimages to the Holy Land are those of a Bordeaux pilgrim in 333 and of the Lady Egeria in 380.
“Standing where our Lord was baptized, crucified, and buried connects us more intimately to our Christian story. Visiting the shrine or homeland of a special saint reminds us of the qualities that we most admire in that saint and encourages us to act with the same faith and courage. Moreover, we make pilgrimages to remember and to learn better how to imitate our Lord.” Excerpt from “How to Make a Pilgrimage” by Therese Johnson Borchard
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400 AD With the influence of St. Jerome, pilgrimages came to be regarded among Irish monks and Celtic cultures as a form of self-isolation, a means of obtaining solitude.
By the end of the Middle Ages, pilgrimages were a central part of popular religion, especially as indulgences became attached to certain journeys, and relics – remains of saints regarded as objects of devotion – were distributed at shrines.
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2020 Passion Play Oberammergau, Germany
Don’t miss this once-in-a-decade opportunity! After months of suffering and dying from the plague, the people of Oberammergau pledged in 1633 to act out the play of the suffering, death and resurrection of our Lord, Jesus Christ once every 10 years.
Book a Pilgrimage for Your School or Church and include the Passion Play in Oberammergau, Germany