Fully Escorted Group Pilgrimages - Holy Land Shrines of Italy Medjugorje Fatima Lourdes Camino de Santiago

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Fully Escorted Group Pilgrimages - Holy Land Shrines of Italy Medjugorje Fatima Lourdes Camino de Santiago
Renew our spirit of Love, Forgiveness & Peace

 Fully Escorted Group Pilgrimages
                        2019

Holy Land
Shrines of Italy
Medjugorje
Fatima
Lourdes
Camino de Santiago

                     W W W. M A R I A N . I E
    Tel: (01) 8788159 | Tel NI (028) 95680005 | info@marian.ie
Fully Escorted Group Pilgrimages - Holy Land Shrines of Italy Medjugorje Fatima Lourdes Camino de Santiago
Pilgrim’s testimonies
                                    Holy Land
      I had the most amazing time on the recent Holy Land pilgrimage,
      memories that will last a lifetime! You are all to be congratulated
       on your professional planning, the extraordinary tour guide and
        including one and all of the local organizers who showed care,
      kindness, patience and compassion at all times as they guided our
     merry group through the Holy Land walking in the footsteps of Jesus.
        We had the privilege of setting out on our journey with friends,
       acquaintances and some strangers, but as we returned to Kilkenny
          having made lots of very precious memories together along the
        way, it was clear to all, that in the truest sense of the word we had
                      all become a bonded group of friends.
             Thanks again to one and all for making this trip possible.
                                 Eileen - October 2018

                                     Medjugorje
     I returned yesterday, from what was a most enjoyable and thoroughly
                         rewarding first visit to Medjugorje.
       The owner and staff in our house couldn’t have done more for me.
        Really, really lovely people. The schedule of events and times were
      very well balanced and just right, to allow adequate free time. David
         Parkes and his team were so professional, good humoured and
     helpful, and our guide was absolutely wonderful, with perfect English
        and her impeccable knowledge and love of the whole Medjugorje
                         story added immensely to the week.
                  Thanks a million to all at Marian Pilgrimages.
                              Seamus - September 2015

                               Camino de Santiago
      What an amazing trip. The memories of it will remain with me for
     a long time. I enjoyed every part of it..aches and pains included and
     were so worth it. I would highly recommend this trip to others and if
        possible at a later stage hope to do further walks on the Camino.
     I thank you for all the efforts you went to in organizing this trip and
     constantly ensuring everyone in the group was OK at all times your
         efforts were really appreciated. Hoping your blisters healed up.
                                   Thanks again.
                                 Helen - June 2017
Fully Escorted Group Pilgrimages - Holy Land Shrines of Italy Medjugorje Fatima Lourdes Camino de Santiago
Contents

 About Marian Pilgrimages					4

 Holy Land								6
      Holy Land Dates and Prices						11

 Shrines of Italy							12
      Shrines of Italy Dates and Prices					                          17

 Medjugorje							18
      Medjugorje Dates and Prices					23

 Fatima		 						24
      Fatima Dates and Prices						27

 Lourdes      							28
      Lourdes Dates and Prices						31

 Camino de Santiago						32
      Last 100km of the French Way of the Camino Dates and Prices		   37
      A Taste of the Camino Dates and Prices				                      37

 Specialised Tours             					38
Fully Escorted Group Pilgrimages - Holy Land Shrines of Italy Medjugorje Fatima Lourdes Camino de Santiago
Introduction

M     arian Pilgrimages is an Irish owned family run business with offices based in
      Dublin, London and Boston. The company was founded in 1991 by the late Tom
Glynn while visiting The Marian Shrine of Medjugorje with his wife and four sons. Tom
had been extensively involved in Sun Holidays for over 30 years previous, but recognised
the importance of religious travel to the Irish and enlisted the help of his good friend and
experienced colleague, Tom Field, to help in the set up of the new company.
The next few years were extremely tough, as the Croatian War of independence made
travelling to Medjugorje out of the question for many Irish pilgrims. However, through
the loyalty and dedication of our pilgrims, the company continued to organise small group
pilgrimages to the Marian Shrine. Eventually, in 1995 the war ended and all the hard work,
perseverance and devotion accumulated with Marian Pilgrimages becoming the biggest tour
operator to Medjugorje in the world, coordinating over 15,000 pilgrims each year from five
different countries to this special site.
Over the years Tom’s sons joined, and the family business grew to where it is today, bringing
tens of thousands of pilgrims to shrines all over Europe, the Middle East and North America.
With a network of offices in 8 countries and over 50 members of our own staff on the ground,
Marian Pilgrimages are in a unique position to ensure that every aspect of your pilgrimage
is looked after. We have a commitment to providing successful pilgrimages and a belief in
the messages and meaning of the Shrines, Marian Pilgrimages offers not only a spiritual
pilgrimage but an extensively professional programme.
                                     At Marian Pilgrimages we believe that a pilgrimage
                                     should help deepen our focus, renew our spirit of love,
                                     forgiveness and peace and overall replenish our faith.
                                     A pilgrimage is a deeply individual experience and
                                     we believe that we provide the spiritual environment
                                     accompanied with like-minded pilgrims and a structured
                                     programme to make sure that you receive the most out
                                     of your pilgrimage. Pilgrims, either as part of a group
                                     or travelling by themselves will see that this belief has
continued not only into our extensive programme but also into our professional guides and
services, both on the ground and in our offices. We pride ourselves on the quality of our
guides, who will bring each step of your journey to life with their intimate knowledge of the
local culture and history.
By travelling with Marian Pilgrimages you will benefit by being part of the ‘Family’ that is
Marian Pilgrimages. Receiving complete support both here in Ireland and on the ground, we
will endeavour to ensure your pilgrimage is a rewarding and fruitful experience.
We look forward to the opportunity of assisting you as you embark on your pilgrimage.
Marian Pilgrimages

4
Fully Escorted Group Pilgrimages - Holy Land Shrines of Italy Medjugorje Fatima Lourdes Camino de Santiago
Why Marian Pilgrimages
Complete support and value for money
From the moment we receive your call, our dedicated staff
in Ireland are on hand to offer advice and direction to make
sure your pilgrimage is specifically tailored to your needs.
When you arrive at your destination this support continues
throughout your pilgrimage with the help of our tour
escorts, knowledgeable guides and our extensive network
built over the years in over 12 countries.
Our itineraries have been designed and tailored with 28 years of experience behind us in
organising pilgrimages. We have ensured that all Marian Pilgrimages programmes will
encompass the Blessed aspects of your venue, all the while being concise of balancing the
individual’s needs and ability with taking part in the itinerary. Your guides, alongside our
office, work closely to ensure all facets of each pilgrim’s booking are taken care of.

Convenience and financial security
With departures from airports of your choice, we strive to offer a journey that is convenient
to you. We have confirmed all day flights to ensure that your journey is comfortable and
enjoyable. With the exception of schedule flights, we do not charge fuel surcharges, extra fees
for late bookings or name changes. We also make sure the airport taxes and charges are correct
and not inflated. ‘Marian Pilgrimages’ is a fully bonded Tour Operator (TO142) by the Irish
Government. This ensures that all your money paid to us is guaranteed.

Parish and group bookings
Here at Marian Pilgrimages we have the ability to tailor make our itineraries for our groups. If
there is a particular tour you would like to put together that is not already listed in this brochure
please contact our office where our experienced staff can tailor make an trip to suit you.

How to Book
By Phone: You can call any of our team at (01) 878 8159 from 09:30am to 5:30pm Monday to
Friday. Here a member of our team can take your bookings or provide any information you
might need.
By Post: If you wish we can post you information for a particular pilgrimage and a booking
form to fill out and return by post.
Online: All pilgrimages are available to book online at www.marian.ie here you can view each
itinerary and all that is included for each pilgrimage. A non refundable deposit will be need to
book which can be paid by Credit Card or Debit card.
Payments: All bookings require a non-refundable deposit, this deposit varies depending on
pilgrimage. Payments can be made by Credit/Debit Card over the phone or online, by cheque
or bank draft by post or via online banking. The balance of your pilgrimage can be paid in
instalments of any amount up-to 8 weeks before your departure date.

                                                          www.marian.ie - tel (01) 878 8159         5
Fully Escorted Group Pilgrimages - Holy Land Shrines of Italy Medjugorje Fatima Lourdes Camino de Santiago
See the scriptures
come alive

  2018 marked yet another great year of pilgrimages to the Holy Land
  for Marian Pilgrimages. Parish, prayer and community groups joined
  individuals to undertake this once in a lifetime pilgrimage. With over 800
  pilgrims traveling, we look forward to 2019 where we can continue to be
  Ireland’s first and foremost tour operator to the Holy Land.
Fully Escorted Group Pilgrimages - Holy Land Shrines of Italy Medjugorje Fatima Lourdes Camino de Santiago
Holy Land
The Holy Land is universally known as the first Marian Shrine. The significance of the
Holy Land relates back to the beginning of Our Lady’s life as the Mother of our Saviour.
The Holy Land allows you to see the Scriptures come alive and see where Jesus began his
ministry. This journey will truly enlighten your prayers and your understanding of what
you are praying for. We will follow in the footsteps of Jesus and discover this unique and
spiritual land with visits to Tiberias, Cana, Nazareth, Jerusalem and Bethlehem.

Nazareth & Bethlehem Sample Itinerary
We will follow in the footsteps of Jesus and discover this unique and spiritual land with
visits to Tiberias, Nazareth, Jerusalem and Bethlehem. Marian Pilgrimages have over
20 different departures to the Holy Land available in 2019, with the majority for 8 night
durations. Please see a our new sample itinerary below staying 4 days in Nazareth and 4
days in Bethlehem, and remember to give our office a call, or log onto
www.marian.ie/holyland for a full list of all pilgrimages.

Day 1 - Arrive Holy Land
Make your way to Dublin airport and check-in for Turkish
Airlines flight to Tel Aviv via Istanbul, with onboard
catering and personal entertainment on one of Europe’s
best Airlines. On Arrival in Tel Aviv you will be met by our
Marian Pilgrimages representative and guide in the arrival
hall before boarding your tour coach. Get acquainted with
the group on your transfer to Nazareth where we check
into the 4 star Legacy Hotel for 4 nights with dinner and breakfast.

                                         Day 2 - Nazareth & Cana
                                       After breakfast we will spend our morning exploring
                                       the city where Jesus lived as a child. We make our way
                                       to the Basilica of the Annunciation to celebrate Mass.
                                       Visiting the lower level of the Basilica we see the remains
                                       of Mary’s house and where the Angel Gabriel visited her.
                                       Here inscribed on the alter are the Latin words of “Here
                                       the Word was made flesh”. Adjacent to the Basilica is the
St. Joseph Church, we visit the site of Joseph’s work shop and the house of the Holy Family.
A short walk from the Basilica is Mary’s Well here you have the opportunity to draw water
from the same well as the Virgin Mary. After some time for lunch we take the short coach
journey to Cana. Here we visit the Wedding Church, the site of Jesus’ first miracle, turning the
water to wine. Couples on the pilgrimage can take part in the special ceremony to renew their
Wedding Vows. In the lower level of the church we see artifacts from the site before having
an opportunity to taste and purchase some wine from this sacred site. Return to Nazareth for
dinner in our hotel.

                                                          www.marian.ie - tel (01) 878 8159      7
Fully Escorted Group Pilgrimages - Holy Land Shrines of Italy Medjugorje Fatima Lourdes Camino de Santiago
Day 3 - Sea of Galilee
This morning we make our way to the Mount of Beatitudes
which overlooks the Sea of Galilee, Capernaum and
Tabgha. Here we celebrate Mass in the Church of the
Beatitudes and hear the reading of the great Sermon on
the Mount. Continue to Capernaum where we see the
old Synagogue the site of many of Jesus’ teachings and
the excavations of Peters house where Jesus stayed when
visiting Capernaum. Visit the site of the multiplication of the Loaves & Fish at Tabgha, and the
church of the Primacy of Peter. Enjoy lunch on the shore of the Sea of Galilee before taking
a Boat trip on the lake, with relevant Bible readings. On docking of the boat, you have the
opportunity to see the “boat of Jesus” a fishing boat from the time of Christ. Before retuning
to the hotel we visit the Magdala, the home of Mary Magdalene, a prosperous fishing village at
the time of Jesus.

                                       Day 4 - Mount Tabor & River Jordan
                                      After breakfast we drive to Mount Tabor and ascend by
                                      taxi for Mass at the church of the Transfiguration where
                                      Jesus is transfigured and speaks to Moses and Elijah.
                                      Enjoy the view of the Valley of Armageddon before
                                      driving to Yardinet - Baptism site on the River Jordan,
                                      here we can renew our Baptismal Vows. Return to
                                      Nazareth for some free time. Dinner at hotel.

    Day 5 - Jericho & Bethany
This morning we leave Nazareth and drive south along the Jordan Valley into Jericho. Here we
can see the Mount of Temptation where Jesus was tempted by the devil, and the Sycamore tree
of Zacchaeus. Continue to the Dead Sea – the lowest place on Earth and enjoy a “dip” near
Qumran, where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found. Drive by the Inn of the Good Samaritan, to
Bethany to celebrate Mass and visit the tomb of Lazarus. Continue on to Bethlehem where we
check-in to the 4 star Manger Square Hotel, located just a stone’s throw from the Church of
the Nativity in Bethlehem for 4 nights, with breakfast and dinner.

    Day 6 - Bethlehem
After breakfast we take the short walk to the Church of
the Nativity where we spend the morning and celebrate
Mass. Here you can visit the birthplace of Jesus, and
the Holy Manger as well as the Chapels of St. Joseph,
St. Jerome, the Holy Innocents and the Church of St.
Catherine. Leaving the Church of the Nativity you can
make your way to the Milk Grotto before joining our
coach and taking the short drive to the Shepherds Fields. After lunch we continue to Ein
Karem and visit the Churches of the Visitation (where Mary met Elizabeth) & St. John the
Baptist. Return to the hotel for Dinner.

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Fully Escorted Group Pilgrimages - Holy Land Shrines of Italy Medjugorje Fatima Lourdes Camino de Santiago
Day 7 - Jerusalem
This morning we drive to Jerusalem and enter the Old
City to the Church of St. Anne and nearby, see the Pool
of Bethesda where Jesus healed a man paralysed for
over 40 years. Close by we begin the Via Dolorosa and
follow the stations of the cross through the markets
and narrow streets of the Old City to the church of the
Holy Sepulchre, the site of Calvary (where Jesus was
crucified) and His tomb. Here we will celebrate Mass and take some time to reflect upon this
sacred site. Enjoy some free time in Jerusalem for lunch before visiting the Western Wall and
returning to the hotel for dinner.

Day 8 - Mount of Olives
After breakfast we drive to the Mount
of Olives in Jersalem where we take our                               FRONT PAGE
group photo and enjoy the view of the
Old City below. We make our way to the

                                                                                              A

                                                                                                                                                        Jordan
                                                                                          E
highest point on the Mount of Olives to the                                                                 Mt. of

                                                                                      S
                                                                                                          Beatitudes
Ascension Dome that marks the site where
                                                                                  N
                                                                                                                               Capernaum
                                                                               97mm wide
                                                                                A
Christ ascended into heaven. Continue to                                                                                                                Sea of
                                                                              E

                                                                                              Haifa                                                     Galilee
                                                                                                                     Tabgha
                                                                           N

visit The Pater Noster Church, Dominus                                                                           Cana                         Tiberias
                                                                          A

Flevit, Assumption church and Grotto
                                                                       R

                                                                                                                                Mt. Tabor             Yardenit
                                                                      R

and the Garden of Gethsemane. In the                                                                  Nazareth
                                                                   E

                                                                                                                                             (Baptism Site
                                                                                                                                               of Jesus)
                                                                  T

afternoon we celebrate Mass in the Church                                             Armageddon
                                                                 I

of St. Peter in Gallicantu or “cock’s crow”,
                                                               D

                                                                                                                                                                 t
                                                              E

                                                                                                                                                                 ptis
where Peter denied Jesus three times and

                                                                                                                                                                  e Ba
                                                             M

                                                                                                                                                                               hn Th
see the dungeon where Jesus was held the                                                                                                     Jordan

                                                                                                                                                                         eet Jo
                                                                                                                    Mary

night of Holy Thursday. We walk around
                                                                                                                                                                     to m
                                                                                                                 m Joseph &

                                                                                                                                                                                   ey
                                                                              Tel Aviv
                                                                                                                                                                               urn
Mount Zion and visit the church of the                                     Jaffa                                                                                                       s’ Jo
                                                                                                             to Bethlehe

                                                                                                                                                                                   Jesu

Dormition of the Blessed Virgin Mary,
Tomb of David and the Room of the Last
                                                                                                          The Journey

Supper. Return to the hotel for dinner.
                                                                                                                                                  an
                                                                                                                                               Jord

                                                                                                                                   Jericho

                                                                                              Jerusalem

Day 9 - Arrive Ireland                                                                    Bethlehem                           Qumran

Early breakfast before taking our coach to
                                                                                                                                  Dead
Tel Aviv airport for return flights to Dublin   GAZA
                                                       flight of Holy Family to egypt
                                                                                                                                   Sea
                                                                                              Hebron
via Istanbul.                                                                                          Masada

                                                              Beer Sheba

                                                             www.marian.ie - tel (01) 878 8159                                                                                                 9
Fully Escorted Group Pilgrimages - Holy Land Shrines of Italy Medjugorje Fatima Lourdes Camino de Santiago
Holy Land Hotels
 Marian Pilgrimages have chosen a fantastic selection of 4 star hotels in the Holy Land. Our
 trips to the Holy Land can be on a half board or full board basis. These hotels are located in
 Tiberias, Jerusalem, Bethlehem and now Nazareth. Rooms can be single, twin or triple with
 en-suite. The hotels we have selected are dedicated to quality location and friendliness that
 are well suited to all of our pilgrims. To see a full list of accommodation we use please log on
 to our website www.marian.ie/holyland.

 Manger Square Hotel - Bethlehem

 Situated just a stones throw from the Church of the
 Nativity, lies the fabulous 4 star Manger Square Hotel.
 The hotel offers uninteruppted luxurious views of the
 city of Bethlehem. Decorated in a modern style the
 Manger Square restaurant caters for all nationalities
 where the food is buffet style. After dinner, our groups
 can take in traditional music and dancing. The large
 lobby provides a bright, spacious area with background
 music for one to relax and unwind after a busy day
 in Bethlehem. This fantastic location coupled with
 the polite and hospitable staff ensure your stay is
 an enjoyable one. The 220 rooms are spacious and
 comfortable with amenities such as a flat screen TV, air
 conditioning, tea/coffee making facilities, hair dryer,
 mini bar and a safe. Other facilities in the hotel include 24 hour front desk, garden, terrace,
 luggage storage, laundry service, shop, lift, and free Wifi

 Legacy Hotel - Nazareth

 The Legacy Hotel is a fantastic 4 star hotel located in
 an ideal setting for exploring Nazareth, just a short
 walk from the Basilica of the Annunciation. The hotel
 is decorated in modern and colourful furnishings
 with fine artwork displayed throughout. The staff
 are professional and knowledgable paying particular
 attention to every small detail. All 100 rooms have
 been decorated with their clients comfort and luxury
 in mind. Facilities in the rooms include Wifi, air
 conditioning, TV, safety deposit box, and ensuite with
 bath or shower. Other amenities in the hotel include 24
 hour front desk, multilingual staff, lift, luggage storage,
 currecny exchange, a spacious lobby, bar and patio area.

10
Sea of Galilee Hotel - Tiberias

The Sea Of Galilee Hotel has just been opened in
December 2018 and built to the highest standard,
equipped with all the facilities that you would expect
from a magnificent 4 star hotel, included an Olympic
sized outdoor swimming pool and extensive landscaped
gardens to explore. It is an ideal base for exploring
Galilee. The hotel is in a beautiful setting, close to
Tabgha and approximately a 10 minute drive from
Tiberias. The Sea Of Galilee Hotel is surrounded by
luscious landscaped lawns and perfectly manicured
gardens and only a 100m walk from the shores of the
Sea Of Galilee. All guest-rooms have views over the Sea
of Galilee or the lush greenery around the hotel. The hotel is overlooked by the biblical Mount
Arbel which sets a beautiful back drop to the open spaces and dining area. Amenities in the
rooms consist of cable TV, telephone, safety deposit box, tea/coffee making facilities, ensuite
bathroom with bath and hairdryer.
            What we include                                   Holy Land Price List
                                                      Date of Departure           Duration            Price
  Return flights via Istanbul with 4* Turkish                 Bethlehem, Nazareth & Sea of Galilee
 Airlines with superb in-flight catering and full   Monday, 16 September           8 nights              €1,445
                 entertainment                      Monday, 24 September           8 nights              €1,445
                                                                     Tiberias, Jordan & Jerusalem
       Accommodation with dinner and               Sunday, 03 November            8 nights              €1,395
               breakfast                                             Jerusalem & Sea of Galilee               PRICE
             All travel in modern                  Friday, 25 October             8 nights              €1,690
                                                                   Nazareth, Bethlehem & Galilee
            air-conditioned coach                   Tuesday, 01 October            8 nights              €1,445
                                                    Sunday, 06 October             8 nights              €1,445
       Wireless audio tour guide system
                                                    Tuesday, 08 October            8 nights              €1,445
       English speaking Christian guide            Monday, 14 October             8 nights              €1,445
                 throughout                         Friday, 18 October             8 nights              €1,445
                                                    Sunday, 26 October             8 nights              €1,445
   Marian Pilgrimages Irish Representative         Thursday, 07 November          8 nights              €1,445
             based locally with                     Sunday, 11 November            8 nights              €1,395
     24hr emergency contact number                                Interdenominational Pilgrimage
                                                                   Tiberias, Jordan & Jerusalem
     All admission charges as per itinerary        Sunday, 3 November             8 Nights              €1,695

        Boat trip on Sea of Galilee and                            Christmas Day in Bethlehem
                                                    Friday 20 December             8 nights              €1,595
             Taxis at Mount Tabor
                                                    For a full itinerary for each trip above please visit
   Tips for Hotels, Coach Driver, and Guide        www.marian.ie/holyland or give our office a call.
                                                    *Please note that the tours above depend on the
   20kg check-in luggage plus carry on per         amount of passengers booked. Marian Pilgrimages
                    person                          reserve the right to cancel any tour due to insufficient
                                                    numbers. For those not holding their own travel
            All airport & local taxes              insurance, Pilgrim Travel Insurance, provided by Blue
            (taxes amounting to €74)                Insurance is available with a supplement of €25 or €50
                                                    for those over 85

                                                           www.marian.ie - tel (01) 878 8159 11
Italy – ‘Land of faith
and spirit’

  We are delighted for 2019 to introduce to you some new itineraries,
  giving you the opportunity to explore even more. In addition to the main
  pilgrimage sites, we have included in our programme a pilgrimage to
  the Marian Shrines of Italy, visiting some of the many shrines dedicated
  to the Blessed Virgin Mary and a pilgrimage to the shrine of Luisa
  Piccarreta, also known as the ‘Little Daughter of the Divine Will’ for
  whom there is a growing devotion.
Shrines of Italy
As the cradle of Catholicism, Italy has always been a destination for those who have made
their faith a way of life. It is a land of pilgrimage - one of the foremost in the world - and is
home to countless places of devotion and worship: San Giovanni Rotondo, the town where
St. Padre Pio lived; Assisi, the birthplace of St. Francis and St. Clare; Monte Sant’Angelo,
home to the oldest shrine in western Europe dedicated to the Archangel Michael; and in
addition the numerous Eucharistic Miracles that have taken place over the centuries,
relics of which can be found in Lanciano, Cascia and Orvieto, to name but a few . The
ultimate destination however, for religious pilgrimages is undoubtedly Rome, the heart of
Christianity and seat of the Catholic Church.

Shrines of Italy Selected itineraries
Marian Pilgrimages are offering various different trips to Italy for 2019. With an
abundance of places of devotion throughout Italy, our itineraries are designed to
incorporate both the well-known and many of the undiscovered shrines that embellish the
country.

During a visit to Avellino pilgrims are drawn by the solemn grace of the sanctuary at
Montevergine with the famous icon of the Black Madonna while just a short distance away
are the Shrines of St. Philomena and that of St. Gerard Majella.

Driving through the picturesque countryside towards San Giovanni Rotondo will give the
pilgrim a deeper insight into the life of Pio with visits to his birthplace of Pietrelcina and
the capuchin friaries at Morcone or Sant’Anna in Foggia. A base in San Giovanni Rotondo
provides the opportunity to visit the well-known Shrine of St. Michael the Archangel or
visit the increasingly popular sanctuary of Luisa Piccarreta, the “Little Daughter of the
Divine Will” in the quaint town of Corato.

A decision to extend your pilgrimage and drive to the town of Assisi one will have the
opportunity to visit such sites as the Holy House of Loreto or venerate the relics of the
Eucharistic Miracles in Lanciano and Cascia, the home of St. Rita.

One must not forget the wondrous shrines of Northern Italy. Whether you choose a base
on Lake Garda with opportunity to enjoy visits to the Basilica of St. Anthony in Padua,
the enchanting St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice or the sanctuary of Madonna della Corona in
nearby Verona or a base in Tuscany, including visits to the enchanting Duomo in Florence
– the cradle of the Renaissance or the medieval town of Lucca you will not be disappointed!

We have the ability to tailor make our itineraries for our groups so if you wish to visit
a particular venue or shrine please don’t hesitate to contact us. Please see a selection of
itineraries below and for further itineraries, dates and prices please log on to
www.marian.ie/italy or call 01-8788159.

                                                        www.marian.ie - tel (01) 878 8159           13
Marian Shrines of Italy - 26th September - €799

 Day 1 - Arrive Pompeii

Check in at Dublin airport for our flight to Naples
where upon arrival we will meet our tour escort,
drive to nearby Pompeii and have lunch in a typical
local restaurant. In the afternoon we will celebrate the
opening Mass of our pilgrimage in the Basilica of Our
Lady of the Holy Rosary. Declared a Papal Basilica in
1901 by Pope Leon XIII, the basilica is home to the
painting of the Our Lady of the Holy Rosary. We will
have the opportunity to venerate the painting and
afterwards visit the Chapel of Bartolo Longo, founder of the Confraternity of the Holy Rosary.
This evening we will drive to Castelpetrosa where we will stay for the first two nights of our
pilgrimage.

 Day 2 - Castelpetrosa
                                          We will spend today at the Sanctuary of Our Lady
                                          of Sorrows in the town of Castelpetrosa. The Virgin
                                          Mary first appeared in March 1888. As two peasant
                                          girls were searching for a lost sheep one of them was
                                          suddenly distracted by a bright light coming from a
                                          nearby cave. In the glowing light, the peasant girl saw
                                          the Virgin Mary kneeling before the lifeless body of
                                          Jesus with his eyes to the sky and his arms wide open.
                                          This first appearance was followed by others and soon
many pilgrims began to arrive. An extraordinary event was added to the apparitions when
at the foot of the cliff a spring of water emerged, which immediately became miraculous. The
sanctuary stands solemn with its seven chapels representing the seven sorrows of the Virgin
Mary and is truly a magical place for the events that gave rise to it and for the spiritual feeling
it radiates. We will celebrate morning Mass, followed by a tour of the sanctuary and in the
afternoon walk
the Way of the Cross.

 Day 3 - San Vittorino
This morning we will depart Castelpetrosa and
travel to the town of San Vittorino. After Mass at
the sanctuary dedicated to Our Lady of Fatima, we
will experience an authentically Marian spirituality
through prayer of the rosary. In the afternoon we will
enjoy the wonderful landscapes as we make our way to
Rome where we will stay for the following two nights.

14
Day 4 - Rome
This morning we will celebrate Mass at the Sanctuary of Divine Love. According to
tradition, in the spring of 1740 a pilgrim on his way
to Rome passed near the abandoned castle tower
and was attacked by a herd of wild dogs. At the point
of being killed, turning to the image of the Blessed
Virgin and Jesus on the tower, the man pleaded for
help, immediately the vicious dogs withdrew, and the
pilgrim was spared. This first miracle was the basis of
the building of a shrine to the Virgin Mary and Divine
Love at this place. From the year of the dedication of
the church, the sanctuary has become a place of pilgrimage which in 1979 Pope John Paul
II named it the ‘Marian Shrine of Rome’. After lunch we will visit the Basilica of Santa Maria
Maggiore (St. Mary Major). Built under the orders of Pope Liberia’s, according to legend the
Virgin appeared before the Pope instructing him to build a church. The Basilica of Santa
Maria Maggiore is the largest of the 26 churches in Rome dedicated to the Virgin Mary. After
recitation of the holy rosary we will have a tour of the basilica. As we return to our hotel, we
will enjoy a panoramic tour of Rome as we see the main attractions such as Piazza Venezia,
the Roman Forum and world-famous Colosseum.

Day 5 - Loreto
After breakfast we will drive to Loreto, home to one of the most important Marian pilgrimage
sites in Italy. This afternoon we celebrate Mass in the Basilica of the Holy House of Nazareth,
                                        one of the most revered Marian shrines in the world.
                                        The large basilica is built around the Holy House which,
                                        ancient tradition tells is the same house where the
                                        Virgin Mary was born, grew up and received the angelic
                                        annunciation. After time at leisure we will check into
                                        our hotel for one night.

Day 6 - Depart Bologna
After morning Mass, we will have time for private prayer and reflection before departing in
the afternoon to Bologna airport for our return flight to Dublin.

                                                        www.marian.ie - tel (01) 878 8159 15
Mini break to San Giovanni Rotondo - 9th April - £579

 Day 1 - Arrive San Giovanni Rotondo
We will depart in the morning to Naples airport where
upon arrival we will meet our tour escort and enjoy a
scenic drive to the town of Pietrelcina, birthplace of St.
Pio. After lunch in a local restaurant, we will celebrate
the opening Mass of our pilgrimage and afterwards
have a walking tour of the quaint and tranquil town
visiting the home of the Forgione family where Padre
Pio was born, the Church of Sant’Anna where he was
baptised and the Church of Santa Maria degli Angeli
where he celebrated his first Mass. Afterwards we will travel to nearby Piana Romana where
we will see the humble farmhouse of the Forgione family and have time for prayer before the
tree beneath which Padre Pio received the invisible stigmata. We will get our first views of
the contrasting landscapes of Italy as make our way to San Giovanni Rotondo, home to Padre
Pio for over fifty years. After checking into our hotel where we will stay for the following four
nights, we will enjoy our evening meal.

 Day 2 - English Office
                                        After breakfast we will celebrate Mass in the ancient
                                        church of Our Lady of Grace where St. Pio celebrated
                                        Mass, heard confessions and received the gift of the
                                        stigmata. This morning we will have the opportunity to
                                        meet with one of the capuchin friars where we will hear
                                        more of the life of St. Pio and receive a blessing with the
                                        glove and crucifix of the humble friar. In the afternoon
                                        we will follow in the footsteps of Padre Pio during his
                                        time in San Giovanni Rotondo. Despite experiencing
great suffering in his own life, through his ministries and great work which saw the realisation
of the hospital in San Giovanni Rotondo, he helped relieve the sick and troubled from their
own individual sufferings. After visiting the capuchin friary and seeing the cell once occupied
by Padre Pio, we will visit the Church of St. Pio of Pietrelcina and have time for private prayer
before the mortal remains of this great saint of our time.

 Day 3 - Way of the Cross
This morning we will celebrate Mass at the hospital,
‘Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza’ considered Padre Pio’s
greatest creation. Afterwards we will walk the Way of
the Cross which allow us, as Christians, to pause and
enter reflectively into those last moments of Jesus’s
journey of love. We will return to the hotel for lunch
and have the afternoon at leisure.

16
Day 4 - Monte Sant’ Angelo                                       What we include
We will drive through the picturesque
countryside this morning as we make our              Return flights from Ireland
                                                       Luxury coach transfers
                                                 Accommodation in 3 or 4 star hotels
                                                Full religious programme operated by
                                                          Marian Pilgrimages
                                                shrines of italy
                                                 Services of a Marian Pilgrimages guide
                                               
                                                All admission charges as per itinerary
                                                  Comprehensive travel insurance
                                               (€15 reduction on cost for those holding their own
way to the town of Monte Sant’Angelo,          or wishing to purchase alternative Travel Insurance)
home to the oldest shrine in Western
Europe dedicated to the Archangel                           All airport & local taxes
                                                                 (taxes amounting to €74)
Michael. We will celebrate Mass at the
sacred cave and afterwards have time at
leisure in the quaint town. As we make              Shrines of Italy Price List
our way back to San Giovanni Rotondo we                              San Giovanni Rotondo
                                              Tuesday, 09 April ex Belfast             4 nights             £579
will visit St. Matthew’s monastery where
                                              Thursday, 6th June                       4 nights             €745
we will have the blessing with the relic of                      San Giovanni Rotondo & Rome
St. Matthew and Holy Oils. We will have       Monday, 15 April                         7 nights             €995
the opportunity this afternoon to visit          Avellino & San Giovanni Rotondo - Irish Office for St. Pio

the house of Mary Pyle. L’Americana,          Thursday, 20 June                        5 nights             €699
                                                                    Shrines of Northern Italy
as she was known by the locals gave up
                                              Monday, 1 July                           7 nights            €1299
her wealthy lifestyle and moved to San        Tuesday, 17 September                    7 nights               tba
Giovanni Rotondo where she built a home         Shrine of St. Philomena, St. Gerard Majella & San Giovanni
and welcomed the many pilgrims coming                                    Rotondo
                                              Monday, 05 August                        6 nights             €885
from the world over to attend Padre Pio’s                        San Giovanni Rotondo & Assisi
Mass.
                                              Monday, 26 August                        6 nights             €899
                                                                       Rome Mini-break
Day 5 - Depart Naples
                                              Friday, 06 September                     3 nights             €599
This morning we will celebrate the closing                  Medjugorje & San Giovanni Rotondo
Mass of our pilgrimage in the old tomb of     Sunday, 15 September                     6 nights             €899

the Church of Our Lady of Grace where                    San Giovanni Rotondo - St. Pio Feast Day
                                              Friday, 20 September                     4 nights             €665
the remains of St. Pio rested for almost                             Marian Shrines of Italy
forty years. We will have time to return to   Thursday, 26 September                   5 nights             €799
the crypt of St. Pio for private prayer and                    Avellino & San Giovanni Rotondo
after lunch will transfer to Naples airport   Wednesday, 9 October                     4 nights             €699

as we return to our homes, filled with a      Monday, 14 October                       6 nights             €799
                                                     Shrine of Luisa Piccarreta & St. Pio of Pietrelcina
sense of tranquillity, rejuvenation and       Monday, 14 October                       4 nights             €799
peace in our hearts.
                                              For a full itinerary for each trip above please visit
                                              www.marian.ie or give our office a call.

                                                         www.marian.ie - tel (01) 878 8159                          17
Our Lady’s mission
is one of peace and
love

  Since 1991 Marian Pilgrimages has been bringing pilgrims to
  Medjugorje, reintroducing flights to the region after years of conflict.
  Marian Pilgrimages has become one of the largest operators in
  the world to the shrine and has developed strong and meaningful
  relationships in the region allowing us to provide the best of
  accommodation, transport links and an established professional
  service second to none.
Medjugorje
Since 1981, in a small village in Bosnia-Herzegovina
named Medjugorje, the Blessed Virgin Mary has been
appearing and giving messages to the world. In her
own words she tells us, "I have come to tell the world
that God exists. He is the fullness of life, and to enjoy
this fullness and peace, you must return to God".

The following is an account of the beginning of the
Apparitions; On the 24th June 1981, on the hill known
as Podbrdo (Apparition Hill) six children, Ivanka Ivankovic, Mirjana Dragicevic, Vicka
Ivankovic, Ivan Dragicevic, Ivan Ivankovic and Milka Pavlovic saw a beautiful young
woman carrying a little child in her arms. They were frightened at what they saw and did
not come closer, even though the woman beckoned them closer. They knew this woman was
Our Lady.

The following day, the 25th of June 1981, the children went to the same place where Our
Lady had appeared the previous day in hope of seeing her again. However, the group of
children had changed somewhat; Ivan Ivankovic and Milka Pavlovic were replaced by two
others, Marija Pavlovic and Jakov Colo. With a flash of a light, the six children looked up
and saw Our Lady, this time without the child. When they reached her, they fell to their
knees and began to pray with Our Lady. Before Our Lady left the children, she said, "God
be with you my angels!" There has been only 5 days where no apparitions occurred.

Medjugorje has been a place of peace, hope and inspiration for so many. The Word of God
is alive in Medjugorje as well as conversion.

Marian Pilgrimages & Medjugorje
Marian Pilgrimages is Ireland’s first and foremost
Medjugorje Specialist. For more than 28 years our
experience in organising pilgrimages to this religious
shrine has been unsurpassed. Our Lady has come to
earth to re-educate us and to help us convert and re-
centre our lives back to God. Her role has always been
one of guiding people to her Son, Jesus. What a fantastic
opportunity we have before us! It is important that we
understand both the magnitude and the urgency of Our
Lady’s call to conversion, and that we respond to it with all our hearts.

                                                        www.marian.ie - tel (01) 878 8159     19
Medjugorje - 7 Day Sample Itinerary
 This itinerary was devised and is routinely assessed with pilgrims needs in mind. The
 programme has been developed by our local expert guides in coordination with ground
 handlers and our group leaders. This itinerary gives you the maximum experience one can
 achieve in Medjugorje. Considering this, one must acknowledge their needs, restrictions
 and own pace. The optional trips are regarded as extra activities and to be undertaken
 at your own choice with the above in mind. Pilgrims may opt for more free time to either
 return to a special place within the village or for an undisturbed quiet hour. Bear in mind,
 the weather and availability of priests and visionaries will dictate the programme. We
 therefore use this itinerary as a guideline and work closely with our groups and pilgrims to
 ensure the most comprehensive week possible.

 Day 1 - Arrive Medjugorje
Check in at your airport, where our local representative
will be on hand to assist you. On arrival, we will be met
by our guides who will direct you towards your coach
ready to start our transfer to this most Blessed village,
Medjugorje. The guide on the transfer will inform us of
what we can expect during our time here as we view the
splendid scenery on route. As we drive into Medjugorje,
with the steeple of St. James Church first greeting us,
we will arrive at our house. With all rooms allotted on
the bus, we are firstly introduced to our host family and we can then rest in our rooms before
being called for a light snack, or dinner which will be served depending on the time of arrival.
Each evening, we will attend the parish evening prayer programme. It begins with the Rosary
followed by Holy Mass and depending on the day, we finish with Adoration.

 Day 2 - Opening Meeting
We start our day with breakfast before attending Mass at 10am, which is intended for English-
speaking pilgrims, in the Church of St. James. The Church of St. James is placed under
patronage of St. James the Apostle, who is the patron saint of pilgrims. After Mass, we usually
meet at the shrine of Our Lady Queen of Peace for our opening meeting where the guides
will share with us the history of the place, introduce us to the shrine and take us through the
week. Through their words and experiences, they enlighten us to the messages and intentions
of Our Lady. After lunch we visit Blue Cross, a place of many apparitions of Our Lady. It is
situated at the base of Apparition Hill where Our Lady appeared to the children and where
                                        they were hiding from the communist police at the
                                        beginning of the apparitions. Many pilgrims venture
                                        here to bask in the peace that emanates from this
                                        special area. From Blue Cross, we walk to Vicka‘s old
                                        house. Vicka is one of the six Medjugorje visionaries
                                        and we visit her old family house to see and to pray in
                                        the room where she had apparitions over a long period.
                                        After dinner, we attend the Evening prayer programme.

20
Day 3 - Hill of Apparitions
This morning after breakfast, we gather at the statue of
Our Lady to walk through the vineyards, to the Hill of
Apparitions (Podbrdo). This has been the traditional
route taken by millions of pilgrims. The guides gives us
an account of the first days of the apparitions, especially
the first seven days and tell us of the great spiritual
journey the visionaries undertook. We climb, in prayer,
to the site of the first apparition, the place where Our
Lady first appeared to six frightened children in June
of 1981. The Joyful Mysteries greet us at several points of our climb where we pray for a
short time. In the afternoon there is an optional tour to Cenacolo, which is a community for
recovering addicts. There is a special lesson to be learned from the residents here, by their
hard work, perseverance and prayer. After dinner, we attend the Evening prayer programme.

Day 4 - Talk with a visionary
                                       Today we have the opportunity to meet with one of
                                       the visionaries (if they are available) for a talk on
                                       the messages. Our Lady Queen of Peace gives us
                                       messages on the 25th day of the each month through
                                       the visionary, Marija. Through these messages we are
                                       called upon to attend Holy Mass, fasting, reading of the
                                       Bible, confession and to pray the Holy Rosary. Our Lady
                                       maintains that we will receive many graces by praying
                                       the Rosary. Her messages are a source of light and we
find truth within these for our own lives. In the afternoon, we have an optional trip to the
Church of the Divine Mercy in Surmanci, one of five villages belonging to the Medjugorje
parish. It is only 15 minutes from Medjugorje. This is a very popular place with pilgrims, as
a miraculous healing took place before the icon of the Divine Mercy which is now exposed in
the chapel. We also have an opportunity to venerate relics of St Faustina and St John Paul II.

Day 5 - Cross Mountain
After breakfast we meet at the base of Cross Mountain
(Krizevac) to start our ascent. We pray the Stations
of the Cross as we make our way to the summit. Our
journey is rewarded by taking time for reflection and
prayer by the cross located at the top of the mountain.
We make our descent in time for Holy mass. In the
afternoon, following our climb, we will have some
free time. In the evening we have a special treat as our
programme director, David Parkes, performs for us in
concert with an Evening of prayer through song. David is an internationally acclaimed singer
and often travels worldwide singing the word of Our Lord.

                                                       www.marian.ie - tel (01) 878 8159          21
Day 6 - Talk with Medjugorje Priest
Today we gather to hear from one of the priests from
the parish of Medjugorje. With Medjugorje as their
base, they can shed light on issues we may be struggling
with such as confession or sacrifice. In the afternoon we
will visit a neighbouring Franciscan monastery and the
Shrine of St. Anthony, which is only 15 minutes’ drive
from Medjugorje(this is again optional). In the evening
after International Holy Mass you may take part in
the prayer of the Mysteries of Light in the Via Domini
then we visit the grave of late Fr. Slavko, a Medjugorje priest who embodied the messages of
Our Lady and who travelled the world spreading that message of peace and reconciliation.
After almost 18 years spent in Medjugorje, Fr Slavko suddenly died at the top of the Cross
mountain on a Friday afternoon in 2000.

 Day 7 - Mothers Village
We meet as a group to join in the closing meeting on the church grounds. David and the
guides conclude the week with prayer and a short follow up on the week. We finish the
programme with a visit to the Mothers village. This is an orphanage founded by the late Fr.
Slavko for children whose parents had died during the Homeland war in the nineties. Now
it is a home for abandoned children or children who come from dysfunctional and broken
families. This village is a visible fruit of Medjugorje. After dinner, we can participate in the
Evening prayer programme.

 Day 8 - Depart Medjugorje
Our guide will collect us at our house for our transfer to the airport for our return flight.

                                                                                             IC
                                                                                        ED
                                                                                        OV
 Marian Pilgrimages guides & houses
                                                                                              A
                                                                                           E
                                                                                    D

                                                                                        28 R
                                                                                                  TED
                                                                                       YE
                                                                                         AR
                                                                                          S
                                        For the last 17 years, David Parkes, our       TEAM
                                        pilgrim director, has led the Marian
                                        Pilgrimages programme in Medjugorje. David has
                                        in this time successfully organised, coordinated and
                                        helped over 100,000 pilgrims in Medjugorje. David
                                        has a special connection to Medjugorje and can indeed
                                        relate to many people who have been touched by
                                        Medjugorje. This connection allows him to be entirely
involved with any aspect of a trip and does so with great understanding and reverence. While
David is responsible for all aspects of the pilgrimage experience, he is joined by the assistance
of 5 full time Marian Pilgrimages staff. Each of them has numerous years of experience
working with pilgrims and our group leaders. Our guides have built up a strong relationship
with our pilgrims and group leaders creating a sense of family and an atmosphere of a home
away from home. Along with David and the guides, the Marian Pilgrimages office, located on
the main street in Medjugorje, is open to give any assistance to our pilgrims.

22
Marian Pilgrimages Accommodation
Marian Pilgrimages have built up an exclusive choice
of accommodation over the past 28 years, which
is dedicated to quality, location and friendliness.
Traditionally accommodation in Medjugorje is in
private houses on a half board basis. The rooms in all
our houses are single, twin or treble rooms en-suite,
with some quads and family rooms available. All of our
houses now have lifts and air conditioning (some houses
will include air-conditioning in the overall price, others will charge locally) . There is an open tea &
coffee-making facility in every house. All our accommodation is within a 7 minute stroll to
the church. The hosts of each house, who all speak English and even a “cupla focal”, guarantee
a friendly and hospitable stay
throughout your week.                S P EC
                                               €50                        Medjugorje Price List
                                                        IA L
                                           DIS

  EARLY BOOKING OFFER                         C
                                                      T              Date of Departure                From        nights     price

                                                  OUN          Saturday 13 April                  Dublin            7        €679
Simply book before 1st                                         Friday 19 April - Easter           Dublin            7        €689

February to receive €50 off per person                         Sat. 20 & Sun. 21 April - Easter
                                                               Sunday 21 April - Easter
                                                                                                  Dublin
                                                                                                  Dublin
                                                                                                                    7
                                                                                                                    8
                                                                                                                             €745
                                                                                                                             €795
for Pilgrimages to Medjugorje.                                 Wednesday 24 April                 Dublin            7        €695
Bookings only require €100 Deposit                             Sunday 05, 12, 19 & 26 May         Belfast           7        £579
*Discount does not apply to Easter, Youth or Belfast Dates     Monday 06 May &13 May              Dublin            9        €729
                                                               Friday 10 May                      Dublin            5        €649
                                                               Tuesday 14 & 21 May                Cork              7        €699

            What we include                                    Wednesday 15 & 22 May
                                                               Wednesday 15 May
                                                                                                  Shannon
                                                                                                  Dublin
                                                                                                                    7
                                                                                                                    7
                                                                                                                             €695
                                                                                                                             €695
                                                               Thursday 16 & 23 May               Dublin            7        €695
      Return flights from Ireland                             Tuesday 28 May                     Cork              7        €709

   Return transfers to Medjugorje with
                                                               Thursday 30 May                    Dublin            7        €709
                                                               Sunday 02, 09 & 23 June            Belfast           7        £579
                  guide                                        Tuesday 04 & 11 June               Cork              7        €695

      Accommodation in Marian
                                                               Thursday 06, 13, 20 & 27 June      Dublin            7        €695
                                                               Thursday 04, 11, 18 & 25 July      Dublin            7        €675
  Pilgrimages houses close to St. James                        Sunday 28 July                     Belfast           7        £579
   Church with breakfast and evening                           Thursday 01 August - Youth         Dublin            7        €715

                  meal                                         Thursday 08, 15 & 22 August        Dublin            7        €715
                                                               Sunday 18 August                   Belfast           7        £579
       Full religious programme                               Tuesday 27 August                  Cork              7        €725

    operated by Marian Pilgrimages                             Thursday 29 August                 Dublin            7        €725
                                                               Sunday 01, 08, 15, 22 & 29 Sept.   Belfast           7        £579
       Full assistance of Marian                              Tuesday 03 &10 September           Cork              7        €725

         Pilgrimages guides and                                Wednesday 04 & 11 September        Shannon           7        €725
                                                               Thursday 05, 12, 19 & 26 Sept.     Dublin            7        €725
       representatives throughout
                                                               Wednesday 18 & 25 September        Knock             7        €725
   Comprehensive travel insurance                             Thursday 03 October                Dublin            7        €705
  (€15 reduction on cost for those holding their               Sunday 06, 13 & 20 October         Belfast           7        £579
  own or wishing to purchase alternative Travel                Thursday 10 October                Dublin            7        €685
                   Insurance)                                  Thursday 17 October                Dublin            7        €645
                                                               Thursday 24 October                Dublin            7        €695
          All airport & local taxes
             (taxes amounting to €74)                                For a full itinerary for each trip above please visit
                                                                          www.marian.ie or give our office a call.

                                                                        www.marian.ie - tel (01) 878 8159                        23
‘Our Lady was
brighter than the
sun shedding rays of
light’

  Fatima is a worldwide place of pilgrimage with thousands of pilgrims
  flocking here every year to pray to Our Lord and Our Lady. Those
  who venture here have left with a renewed love for all that Fatima has
  to offer and this year we hope to provide the very same experience to
  all our pilgrims, that can only be enhanced by our excellent Fatima
  programme and professional service both on the ground in Fatima and
  back home in Ireland.
Fatima
Fatima, a world famous Marian shrine located in Portugal, saw the beginning of
apparitions to Francisco, Jacinta and Lucia in 1917. Our Lady’s appearance was preceded
by an angel, who appeared to the three children a number of times in 1916. Our Lady
appeared on the 13th day of every month between May and October at Cova de Iria. She
delivered messages from God, the overriding message was for all mankind to return to
God and to make reparation for their sins. She also revealed three secrets to the children
and stressed the importance of praying the Rosary in each of her apparitions.

The people of Fatima, local authorities and even some of their families did not believe
that such apparitions were taking place. On the 13th August, on their way to Cova de Iria,
the children were captured by the local authorities and held in jail. The local authorities
demanded that they reveal the secrets. However, even though they were interrogated and
threatened with death, the children refused to disclose any information. That month Our
Lady appeared to the children at Valinhos on the 19th, after they returned from prison.

In October at the last apparition, Our Lady said she was “ the Lady of the Rosary” and a
chapel was to be built in her honour. As promised to the 3 children in July and September
the “miracle of the sun” took place. As Our Lady was about to leave, the sun began
whirling in the sky and seemed to plunge towards the ground. Thousands of spectators,
who were present during the apparition, suddenly became terrified and fell to their knees
in prayer. It was reported that numerous healings took place during this time. Today
Fatima is a worldwide place of pilgrimage, thousands of people flock here every year to
pray to Our Lord and Our Lady.

Fatima Sample Itinerary
We offer 4, 5 and 7 night pilgrimages which can be tailor made to suit the needs of each
individual group. Our optional tours provide the opportunity to visit other pilgrimage
sites including Santarem and Nazare. Please see our new sample itinerary below staying 4
nights and for specific dates with prices please contact our Dublin office or log on to
www.marian.ie/fatima

Day 1 - Arrive Lisbon
Check in at Dublin for our flight to Lisbon. Upon our arrival in Lisbon we will be met by our
guide transferred by coach to Fatima where we will check into our hotel on a full board basis.
Depending on our time of arrival, we will receive a light snack or lunch before settling into
our rooms.

Day 2 – Aljustrel
The coach will pick us up at the hotel directly after breakfast for our morning trip to Valinhos
and Aljustrel. Our first stop will be Valinhos where Our Lady appeared on the 19th August
in 1917. Our Lady appeared to the children here as they had been taken in for questioning by

                                                        www.marian.ie - tel (01) 878 8159          25
the authorities on the 13th and were not at the Cova D’Iria. After praying at this very special
place we will walk to the Cabeco where the angel appeared to them the first and third of the
                                      three times he appeared in 1916. We then proceed to
                                      Aljustrel, the village where the children were born. We
                                      visit their homes and the well at the bottom of Lucia’s
                                      garden where the angel appeared the second time. Our
                                      last stop will be Fatima parish church. There we will
                                      see the baptismal font where all three were baptised.
                                      Return to the hotel for lunch. In the afternoon attend
                                      holy Mass in the Capelinha after which there will be an
                                      introductory tour of the sanctuary. See the Capelinha,
the Rosary Basilica and tombs of the Seers, Statue of the Sacred Heart and water fountain,
candle area, Berlin Wall, Chapel of Adoration, Reconciliation Chapel and Basilica of the
Holy Trinity. We return to our hotel for dinner followed by the Rosary and Candlelight
procession.

 Day 3 – Optional trip to Santarem
This morning there will be an optional half day excursion to the city of Santarem where we
will visit the church of St. Stephen also known as the church of the Eucharistic Miracle. There
we will celebrate holy Mass and venerate the sacred host that miraculously bled in the year
1247, as the result of it being treated with disrespect. Afterwards there may be a little time for
leisure before returning to Fatima for lunch. In the afternoon spend some free time visiting
the tombs of the shepherds or spend a while in the museum of light and peace where we can
see the bullet in the Crown of Our Lady, and the Irish Monstrance. After dinner there will be
rosary at the Capelinha followed by the Candlelight Procession.

 Day 4 – Hungarian Way of the Cross
                                         This morning we will depart the hotel on foot to walk
                                         the Hungarian Way of the Cross. As we walk through
                                         the olive groves on the path that the children would
                                         have taken many times on their way to the Cova D’Iria,
                                         we pray the stations of the cross. We finish at the
                                         beautiful little chapel of St. Stephen where we celebrate
                                         holy Mass and climb the steps to the calvary on the
                                         roof of the chapel from where there is a beautiful view
                                         taking in Aljustrel, Fatima parish church and the Rosary
Basilica. After lunch spend some time strolling around a museum or exhibition or return to
the village of Aljustrel by tourist train for some relaxation. Dinner at the hotel followed by
evening rosary and candlelight procession.

 Day 5 – Depart Fatima
After breakfast we have some free time to reflect on our pilgrimage and revisit some of our
favourite sites. Return to the hotel for lunch. This afternoon we depart Fatima and take a
coach transfer to Lisbon. In the suburb of Lumiar in Lisbon we will stop at the church of St.
John the Baptist and visit the reliquary which houses the skull of our own dear St. Brigid and
celebrate holy Mass before proceeding to the airport for our return flight to Dublin.

26
Optional Tours
                                                Santarem
                                                In Santarem we visit the Church of St. Stephen or the
                                                Church of the Eucharistic Miracle, where in 1247 the
                                                sacred Host bled after being treated with disrespect.
                                                There we celebrate Holy Mass and afterwards venerate
                                                the sacred blood stained Host still present in the
                                                Monstrance above the high Altar.
                                                                             Fatima Price List
                                                             Thursday 18 April - Hotel Santo Amaro - Easter   5 Nights   €599
Lisbon
                                                             Wednesday 01 May - Hotel Santo Amaro             4 Nights   €549
During our tour of Lisbon we will enjoy
                                                             Saturday 11 May - Hotel Aleluia - Anniversary    5 Nights   €779
a packed lunch in the park beside the
                                                             Thursday 23 May - Hotel Santo Amaro              5 Nights   €599
monument to the discoveries dedicated to
                                                             Thursday 30 May - Hotel Santo Amaro              5 Nights   €599
the Portugese heroes who sailed to the Far
                                                             Tuesday 04 June - Hotel Santo Amaro              4 Nights   €549
East. See the Belem Tower and celebrate
                                                             Thursday 05 September - Hotel Santo Amaro        4 Nights   €549
Mass in the Church and birth place of St.
Anthony.                                                     Tuesday 10 September - Hotel Santo Amaro         4 Nights   €549

                                                             Tuesday 24 September - Hotel Santo Amaro         4 Nights   €549

Nazare                                                       Saturday 28 September - Hotel Styler
                                                             Totus Tuus Pilgrimage Ex Cork
                                                                                                              6 Nights   €659

In Nazare visit the Chapel of Our Lady of                    Monday 30 September - Hotel Santo Amaro          5 Nights   €599
Nazare which houses the ancient statue                       Saturday 12 October - Hotel Santo Amaro          5 Nights   €679
of Our Lady said to have come from
                                                             For a full itinerary for each trip above please visit
Nazareth in the early years of Christianity.                 www.marian.ie or give our office a call.
It is said that while a local man was out
hunting he was in danger of falling over                     *Marian Pilgrimages reserve the right to cancel                a
                                                             any tour due to insufficient numbers.
cliff when he called out to Our Lady who
immediately appeared in front of the horse
stopping them both from falling to their                                     What we include
deaths. In honour of the miracle the church
of Our Lady of Nazare was built. We also                           Return flights from Ireland
have some time to visit the beautiful beach
                                                                  Airport transfers as per itinerary
area of the town.
                                              S P EC           Accommodation with breakfast, lunch
 EARLY BOOKING OFFER                        €50                               & dinner
                                                      IA L
                                        DIS

 Simply book before          C                                 Full religious programme operated by
                                                      T

 1st February to receive       OUN                                       Marian Pilgrimages
 €50 off per person for                                        Full assistance of Marian Pilgrimages
 Pilgrimages to Fatima.                                          Irish representative throughout
 Bookings only require €100 Deposit                                   All airport & local taxes
 *Discount applies to departure dates from March to                           (taxes amounting to €74)
 October

                                                                       www.marian.ie - tel (01) 878 8159 27
‘What I have to say to
 you does not have to
    be written down’

     Our network throughout Lourdes positions us to provide fantastic
     combinations of pilgrimages for groups who wish to visit this Holy
     shrine. With established staff both on the ground in Lourdes and here in
     Ireland we can be confident that a great level of service will be provided
     throughout your pilgrimage.

28
Lourdes
On the 11th of February 1858, Bernadette Soubirous witnessed an apparition in the small
village of Lourdes in France. While gathering wood by the Grotto, Bernadette saw a vision
of Our Lady surrounded by brilliant light. Too frightened to approach her, Bernadette
prayed the Rosary while Our Lady looked on in quiet approval. On her third visit to the
Grotto she asked Bernadette to come to the Grotto for fifteen days. Bernadette did so and
listened to the messages Our Lady delivered from God. In these messages He asks His
children to pray for sinners and repent. Our Lady also gave Bernadette a mission; to tell the
priests to build a chapel and come in procession to Lourdes. During the 9th apparition, the
discovery of the Miraculous spring in the Grotto was made and many miraculous healings
to this day are attributed to it. Bernadette was questioned by hundreds of people on a daily
basis. Cure Peyramale, the local pastor, accused Bernadette of lying about the apparitions
and demanded that she ask Our Lady to identify herself. On the feast of the Annunciation,
Our Lady declared to Bernadette “I am the Immaculate Conception”. It was then that
people ceased accusing Bernadette of lies.

Lourdes Sample Itinerary
For the 2019 season to Lourdes we have a number of different options available.
Pilgrimages to Lourdes are for 3, 4, 5 or 7 nights. Please see below for a sample itinerary for
our standard and most popular four night Lourdes pilgrimage. For specific dates and prices
and for comprehensive itineraries for each date please contact our office in Dublin, or log on
to www.marian.ie/lourdes

Day 1 - Arrive Lourdes
Check in at the airport for our flight to Tarbes airport in Lourdes. Following our arrival we
will meet our guide and transfer by coach to Lourdes. On arrival in Lourdes, we will check
into our hotel and relax before dinner, which is usually served around 7pm, After dinner, we
can take a short walk down to the sanctuary to observe the candlelight procession and to pray
the Rosary.

Day 2 - Walking Tour
This morning we will celebrate our first Mass of the
pilgrimage. Over the next few days all our intentions
will be offered up at each Mass. Following Mass, we will
make our way to the sanctuary area to have a detailed
orientation tour and our guide will explain where and
why the Rosary Basilica was built and introduce us to
the confessional chapel and the baths area. Return to the
hotel for lunch. After lunch we embark on the walking tour which follows in the footsteps of
St Bernadette. We begin at the cemetery where her parents are buried and walk back in time
to visit the Boly Mill, the birthplace of St. Bernadette and the “Cachot” an abandoned prison
where she and her family lived. After our walk we can take some free time to go back to the
sanctuary area for some time of personal prayer before attending the blessing of the sick.

                                                       www.marian.ie - tel (01) 878 8159          29
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