Franciscan Pilgrimage Programs
The Franciscan Pilgrimage Experience is a cross-cultural journeying together in the spirit of Francis and Clare in order to nurture an encounter with Jesus Christ through the spirituality of place. We commit ourselves to serve as sisters and brothers, fostering conversion to a deeper Gospel life and promoting the future vitality of the Franciscan heritage.
Since the 1970s Franciscan Pilgrimages has provided outstanding and critically acclaimed pilgrimages to those parts of the world that have shaped the faith of Christians. Our staff consists of more than fifty Franciscan and lay men and women from all the branches of the Franciscan family. Many of the pilgrimage leaders enjoy an international reputation as Franciscan scholars. Many have published.
“We returned enlightened and fired by the flame of the Holy Spirit. What a Pilgrimage! The mantras are still echoing in my heart, particularly the melody we chanted at the eucharistic prayer. I can’t seem to let go of it!”
Assisi & Rome
These programs offer you an opportunity to deepen your personal relationship with God through visits to the major sanctuaries associated with SS. Francis and Clare of Assisi. Your life is enriched and transformed through participation in rituals, prayers, Eucharistic celebrations, and lectures.
Holy Land
A Franciscan Pilgrimage to the Holy Land is one journey that addresses a new dimension to Christian faith. Through an integration of prayer, reflection and relaxation, you will feel a spiritual awakening touch your hearts. As you follow in the footsteps of Christ, you will see the stories of the Bible come to life.
California Missions
Many visit the California missions; few do so from the stance of a pilgrim with faith, prayer and Franciscan spirituality. Led by well-trained Franciscan and historical guides, you will journey through the missions as the mystery and meaning of each place is explored.
“I was initially nervous because I am not Catholic. I thought I might feel out of place or might feel marginalized. I felt nothing like that! In fact, I found kindred spirits who were also worried initially. History combined with spirituality made for an amazing, soul-searching adventure.”
“Tourgrimage” to Florence, Rome and Assisi!
Love pilgrimage but looking for a new lens to view Italy through? Maybe you’re unsure if pilgrimage is the type of adventure for you. Tourgrimage is a new way to tour through the various sites of Italy while also taking some time for prayer and reflection at some of the holy Franciscan sanctuaries in Rome, Assisi, and Florence. Following a successful debut in 2022, Tourgrimage is back for 2023! Sound interesting? Click here for more information!
Take a moment to read our monthly Pilgrim’s Companion Newsletter. Click Here to read now.
We do not wish to discourage anyone from participating in our uplifiting pilgrimages, but we should note that, unlike the United States, Rome, Assisi and the Holy Land are not as sensitive to the barrier free needs of people. Italy has “charming” cobble stone streets and uneven sidewalks. This 12 second video provides a visual of the condition of “normal” streets in Italy. View on YouTube
Pilgrimage Perspective Podcast!
Take a look at our latest episodes of the Pilgrimage Perspective vidcast! We talk with our wonder leaders about topics related to pilgrimages, Ss. Francis and Clare of Assisi, and much more! Click here for the full list of episodes!
Listen Here: The Franciscan Pilgrimage Podcasts
Welcome to the home of the FPP Podcast Homepage! Here you will find information about pilgrimages, experiences, and important information about upcoming adventures that we may be offering. MORE
A Parish Pilgrimage
Your parish may be planning special events to commemorate the anniversary of its establishment. Please consider a pilgrimage to the Holy Land as part of this celebration.Franciscan Pilgrimages will help with the elements of publicity, organization, travel arrangements, housing, and, most importantly, with the content of the pilgrimage. MORE
Franciscan Pilgrimage Programs is a non-profit ministry of the Assumption BVM Province, Franciscans. During its 45 years of existence, it has guided 20,000+ pilgrims from forty-five countries on pilgrimage, facilitating the sharing of spirituality of place and the Franciscan vision of life
Our logo, the scallop shell and Tau Cross has its origin prior to the middle ages. The Scallop shell was recognized as the symbol of Christian pilgrimage. To this day pilgrims are acknowledged simply by wearing the shell around their neck. One of its purposes was to scoop water from rivers and streams to quench thirst. The Tau Cross was used by St. Francis as his signature. Wearing the Tau is a declaration of commitment to on-going conversion which was at the core of Francis’ spirituality.
How We Can Help
Office Open from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm CT, Monday through Friday.
If we are all occupied, you’ll get voice mail. Christian holy days and civil holidays are generally “off days”.
Mailing Address:
Franciscan Pilgrimage Programs, Inc.
P.O. Box 321490
Franklin, WI 53132
Phone 414.427.0570
Fax 414.427.0590
E-mail addresses:
Fr. John Cella, OFM, Director , Email: jcella@franciscanpilgrimages.com
Sam Reinke, Director of Communications, Email: sreinke@franciscanpilgrimages.com
Sr. Nancy Celaschi, OSF, Office Staff, Email: NancyFpp@thefranciscans.net
Jenell Klovas, Office Staff, Email: jklovas@franciscanpilgrimages.com
General Questions can be sent to info@franciscanpilgrimages.com