The Pilgrim's Journey

Hidden Spiritual Gem in Rome Reminds Us to Embrace Our Crosses

Stephanie EngelmanLast Updated: April 5th, 2024Italy, Spiritual Reflections

Near the catacombs in Rome, walking along the Appian Way, you’re likely to stumble upon a hidden spiritual gem – the Chiesa del Domine Quo Vadis, or the Church of “Lord, Where Are You Going?”. While the architecture is relatively unassuming, the message: “Lord, where are you going?” speaks loud and clear to those who … Read More

St. Maria Goretti – Example of Mercy and Love

Stephanie EngelmanLast Updated: April 5th, 2024Italy, Spiritual Reflections

In the eyes of the world, Maria Goretti was unremarkable. Young, poor, and uneducated, she could not even read or write. Yet, her heroic purity and forgiving spirit have made her great in the eyes of God and the Church. Maria was born on the eastern side of Italy, but her family moved to a … Read More

Saint Anthony of Padua

Andrea JLast Updated: April 5th, 2024Italy

St. Anthony of Padua was baptized “Ferdinand” in Lisbon, Portugal. When he was only fifteen years old, Ferdinand joined the Augustinians. He completed his formation at the abbey in Coimbra, where he was ordained a priest at the age of 25. During his time in Coimbra, he met some Franciscan friars and was drawn to … Read More