Daily Itinerary for the 07 July 2025 July 7th, 2025 – Depart Chicago
Your journey begins with an overnight flight from Chicago O'Hare to Paris, France. As this is an overnight flight, you will rest on
the plane, preparing for the pilgrimage ahead. Meals will be served on the flight.
July 8th, 2025 – Arrive Paris and Travel to Lourdes
Upon landing in Paris, you will transfer to an internal flight bound for Lourdes. After arriving in Lourdes, you'll check into your
hotel and have some time to relax after your long journey. Lourdes is one of the most significant Marian pilgrimage sites, where
the Virgin Mary appeared to St. Bernadette in 1858. In the evening, attend English Mass at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes,
followed by the Rosary and Torchlight Procession—a powerful and moving spiritual experience. Take some time to meditate and
absorb the serenity of this sacred place.
July 9th, 2025 – Lourdes Pilgrimage
Begin your pilgrimage day with English Mass at the Grotto of the Apparitions, the very site where St. Bernadette saw the Virgin
Mary. Following Mass, you can explore key sites of Lourdes, including the Boly Mill, where Bernadette was born, and the Cachot,
the former prison where her family lived during the apparitions. You may also want to visit the Basilica of the Immaculate
Conception and the Basilica of the Rosary, both located within the Sanctuary. In the afternoon, join the Blessed Sacrament
Procession, a beautiful moment of prayer and healing. In the evening, you may again participate in the Rosary and Torchlight
Procession.
July 10th, 2025 – Lourdes: A Day of Reflection
This day is dedicated to personal reflection and prayer in Lourdes. Begin the day with English Mass, followed by a visit to the
Stations of the Cross, where you can walk the path of Christ’s passion and reflect on His suffering and sacrifice. Take time for
quiet prayer at the Baths of Lourdes, where pilgrims particiapte in the water ritual, seeking both physical and spiritual renewal.
The afternoon is free for you to visit any sites you may have missed or to spend time in silent reflection at the Grotto. Conclude
the day by joining the evening Torchlight Procession.
July 11th, 2025 – Travel to Nevers
After breakfast, you will depart Lourdes and travel to Nevers by coach. Nevers is famous as the resting place of St. Bernadette,
who spent the final years of her life at the Convent of St. Gildard. Upon arrival, visit the convent and attend English Mass near
the incorrupt body of St. Bernadette. Walk through the convent gardens, reflecting on her life and the miracle of Lourdes. Take
some time to visit the museum and chapel dedicated to her. You will spend the night in Nevers.
Distance from Lourdes to Nevers: 520 km (approximately 6 hours by coach)
July 12th, 2025 – Nevers to Blanot
Begin the day with English Mass at the Convent of St. Gildard. After Mass, travel to the tranquil village of Blanot, located in the
Burgundy region of France. Blanot offers a peaceful, reflective atmosphere ideal for quiet contemplation. Visit the Church of
Saint Martin, a small but significant site in the heart of the village. Spend time exploring the scenic countryside, perfect for
spiritual reflection. You will stay overnight in Blanot or in nearby accommodation.
Distance from Nevers to Blanot: 130 km (approximately 1 hour 45 minutes by car)
July 13th, 2025 – Blanot to Lisieux
After breakfast, attend Mass in Blanot before traveling to Lisieux, the town of St. Thérèse of the Child Jesus, also known as “The
Little Flower.” Upon arrival, visit the Basilica of St. Thérèse, a magnificent site built in honor of the saint. You’ll also visit Les
Buissonnets, the family home where St. Thérèse spent her childhood, and reflect on her simple but profound faith. In the
evening, attend English Mass at the Basilica. Spend the night in Lisieux.
Distance from Blanot to Lisieux: 310 km (approximately 3.5 hours by car)
July 14th, 2025 – Lisieux to Paris
Begin the day with English Mass at the Carmel Chapel of St. Thérèse. After Mass, you will depart Lisieux and travel back to Paris.
Upon arrival, visit the Shrine of the Miraculous Medal at Rue du Bac, where the Blessed Virgin appeared to St. Catherine Labouré
in 1830, and the nearby Chapel of St. Vincent de Paul, where the remains of St. Vincent de Paul lie. You will have free time in the
afternoon to explore Paris. Take in the sights or relax in one of the city’s many parks. Spend the night in Paris.
Distance from Lisieux to Paris: 200 km (approximately 2 hours by car)
July 15th, 2025 – Paris: Explore and Reflect
Attend English Mass at the Chapel of the Miraculous Medal in the morning. The rest of the day is free for you to explore Paris,
visiting famous landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, or the Louvre Museum. You may also choose to take
a peaceful Seine River Cruise in the evening, offering beautiful views of the city’s historic buildings illuminated at night. Spend
another night in Paris.
July 16th, 2025 – Final Day in Paris
Start the day with English Mass at the Sacré-Cœur Basilica in Montmartre, a stunning basilica located on the highest point in the
city, offering panoramic views of Paris. After Mass, spend your last day in Paris at leisure, visiting any remaining sites or simply
enjoying the beauty of the city. You can use this time for prayer, reflection, or exploration.
July 17th, 2025 – Depart Paris
In the early morning, you will depart from Paris on a flight back to Chicago, concluding your 10-day pilgrimage. Safe travels back
home, filled with spiritual experiences and memories of this profound journey.
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