Our pilgrimage begins today as we depart this morning for Montreal, the second-largest city in Canada, and the second-largest French-speaking city in the world. Upon arrival at Montreal International Airport, we will be welcomed by our tour manager who will be with us for the duration of our pilgrimage. Transfer to our hotel for the first of two nights in this beautiful city. (D, Mass)

Today we enjoy a full day in this cosmopolitan city. Founded in 1642 by 54 devout French men and women under the leadership of Paul de Chomedey, the settlement was originally named after Our Lady (Ville-Marie or City of Mary) before taking on the new name of Montreal (after the extinct volcano “Mont Royal” which lies on the island) in the 18th century. Journey this morning to the top of Mont Royal to visit St. Joseph’s Oratory, a popular pilgrimage site dedicated to Jesus’ earthly father. Founded by St. Andre Bessette in 1904, it offers respite from the busy city below. Visit the gardens, venerate the relics of St. Andre, and spend ample time in private prayer in this peaceful location. This afternoon, we proceed to the Cathedral Marie-Reine-du-Monde (Mary, Queen of the World), seat of the archbishop of Montreal. This beautiful basilica is a scale replica of St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. Then visit the Chapel of Notre Dame de Bon Secours, one of Montreal’s most significant heritage sites. Known as the Sailors’ Church because of the wooden ship models that hang from its ceiling, it was initially designed by St. Marguerite Bougeoys, one of Montreal’s first teachers. Afterwards, meander through the picturesque old town. Spend the evening together at the spectacular light show “AURA” at the Basilica of Notre Dame, one of the crown jewels of Montreal’s cityscape. Built between 1824 and 1829, the Basilica is the first Gothic Revival church in Canada and is renowned for its splendid interior and ornamentation. This magnificent experience begins by showcasing the rich heritage of the basilica and reveals the wealth of exquisite works housed inside. Lights and orchestra music combines with grandiose architecture to create a unique and unforgettable show. Afterwards, enjoy dinner on our own in the Old city before returning to our hotel. (B, D, Mass)

Depart Montreal this morning for Quebec City. Journey along the St. Lawrence River to Trois-Rivieres (three rivers) and the Sanctuaire Notre-Dame-du-Cap (Our Lady of the Cape). This shrine is the third-most frequented pilgrimage site in Quebec and is dedicated to Notre-Dame-du-Rosaire (Our Lady of the Rosary). The first official pilgrimage took place here in 1883 and the modern-style basilica is renowned for its stained-glass windows. We will also visit the Small Shrine built in 1714. Continue to Quebec City, which has delighted visitors for centuries. Throughout the years, the city has retained its Old-World charm, evident in the multitude of historical and religious monuments, fortifications, and narrow cobblestone alleys. The distinctive French flavor is enhanced by fine restaurants, outdoor cafes, and a lively nightlife. In 1985 the city became the first urban center in North America to be inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage list. After the city sightseeing, transfer to our hotel, our home base for the next four nights. Dinner will be on your own. (B, Mass)

Journey to Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupre, dedicated to the grandmother of Jesus, and the oldest pilgrimage site in Canada. Miraculous cures have been reported at the basilica since the late 1600’s when a group of sailors, after surviving a shipwreck, built a small chapel in honor of their patron saint. Founded in 1658, the impressive grounds include not only the basilica built in the Romanesque Revival style, but also a replica of the Scala Santa (holy stairs), the 17th-century Memorial Chapel, an outdoor Way of the Cross, and a museum. Continue our exploration of the Cote de Beaupre this afternoon with a visit to the Albert Giles Copper Art and Museum. Giles crafted the beautiful copper doors that adorn the entrance of the Basilica of St. Anne. Journey to nearby Montmorency Falls, which stand 100 feet higher than Niagara, then cross the St. Lawrence River to the charming Ile d’Orleans. Dinner tonight will be an entertaining and educational experience at a nearby traditional “sugar shack,” busiest during the early spring when the sap starts running in the maple trees. Afterwards, return to our hotel in Quebec City. (B, D, Mass)

Embark on an exploration of Catholic history in Quebec. Learn about numerous founders and teachers of the faith in this region. Visit the Notre-Dame-de-Quebec Basilica-Cathedral, situated in the heart of Old Quebec. Housing the tomb of one of the earliest Canadian saints, St. Francois de Laval, first bishop of Quebec, it also boasts of a large reliquary holding many of Canada’s Saints and Blesseds. Proceed to the Ursuline Monastery and Chapel (home of the oldest institution of learning for women in North America) to venerate another early Canadian saint, Sr. Marie de l’Incarnation, followed by the Centre Catherine-de-Saint-Augustin, where the Blessed Mother Catherine de Simon de Longpre (the co-founder of the Canadian church) is buried. This afternoon, drive to visit the Plains of Abraham, also known as the Battlefields Park. Nestled between Quebec City and the majestic St. Lawrence River, it is one of the world’s most prestigious parks. The site of many clashes between the French and British empires in their struggle for domination, the Park was the scene of the 1759 battle that changed North American history. The balance of the day is free for your personal exploration and leisure. Dinner tonight will be on your own. (B, Mass)

Begin this morning at your leisure before our afternoon sightseeing cruise on the St. Lawrence River. View the Montmorency Falls from a different perspective and marvel at the city skyline as you cruise beneath the famous Fairmont le Chateau Frontenac hotel. Enjoy a farewell dinner together this evening in Old Quebec City. (B, D, Mass)

Transfer to the airport in Quebec City today for our return flight home, taking with us all the blessings and graces of this pilgrimage. (B)