The Birthplace of Divine Mercy Devotion and St. Pope John Paul the Great

29 Apr to 11 May 2024
(11 Days, 10 Nights)

We'll embark on a night flight from KLIA, with a layover at Istanbul Airport in Turkey, before finally reaching Vilnius International Airport in Lithuania the next day.

After customs and immigration, we'll head to a local restaurant for lunch, followed by a city tour. Our day continues with Mass at the Sanctuary of the Divine Mercy, known for its renowned painting of the Mercy of God. While there, we'll also take a moment to pray the 3pm Divine Mercy chaplet.

Next, we'll pay homage at the Cathedral Basilica of St. Stanislaus and St. Vladislaus, a revered emblem of Lithuania's national and spiritual heritage.

Overnight at Vilnius.

On the next day, we will begin with Mass at St. Anne's and Bernardine Church Complex. Marvel at the Gothic architecture of St. Anne's and the tranquil beauty of the Bernardine Church. Next, we will visit the remarkable St. Peter and Paul Church, celebrated for its opulent interior adorned with over 2000 stucco figures.

Continue your exploration at the House of Saint Faustina, we will immerse in the life and legacy of Saint Faustina Kowalska at her former residence. Move on to visit the House of Sr. Michael Sopocko, a pivotal figure in the dissemination of the Divine Mercy message.

Overnight at Vilnius.

On day 3, our journey unfolds with a visit to the iconic Hill of Crosses, a mysterious site just outside the northern city of Šiauliai. The exact origins of this sacred place remain unknown, but for nearly two centuries, it has been adorned with over 100,000 crucifixes and various religious icons.

Following a delightful lunch at a local restaurant, we'll proceed to the Shrine of Our Lady of Šiluva for Mass. This shrine stands as one of the most revered Marian pilgrimage sites in Lithuania. Take the time to explore the grounds, visit the chapel, and delve into the stories of the apparitions that have made this place a center of devotion for centuries.

Overnight at Vilnius.

Today is a traveling day. We will leave Lithuania and enter Poland.

Overnight at Warsaw.

In the morning in Warsaw, our exploration kicks off with a city tour, beginning at the Castle Square and strolling through the bustling Market Square, adorned with charming gift shops and galleries. Following our city exploration, we'll gather for Mass at St. Anne's Church, a historic gem and one of the oldest churches in Poland.

After a satisfying lunch, our journey proceeds to the Basilica of the Holy Cross—a site of immense historical, cultural, and religious importance, holding a revered place in the heart of the city. Our exploration continues with a visit to The National Museum in Warsaw, where we'll embark on a captivating tour of the Gallery of Medieval Art, showcasing 14th-century pictures, altars, and paintings.

Overnight at Warsaw.

After breakfast, our first stop is Swinice Warckie, where we'll meet with our guide, a Sister of Mercy. Our day begins with attending Mass at St. Casimir Church, a place of great significance as it is where Helena Kowalska was baptised, prayed, attended the Eucharist, and participated in confession. Following this spiritual experience, we'll journey to the Family House of St. Faustina. Now transformed into a museum, it offers a glimpse into the atmosphere of those times and the life of the Kowalski family, providing a poignant connection to St. Faustina's history.

Following a satisfying lunch, our journey continues to Czestochowa. Upon arrival, we'll check into the hotel, allowing for a brief respite before dinner. Later in the evening, at 9 pm, we'll participate in the Jasna Gora Appeal—a moment of reflection and spiritual connection at this revered site.

Overnight at Czestochowa.

Our morning begins with a solemn Mass at Jasna Gora Monastery in Czestochowa. This sacred site is home to the original painting, known as the Black Madonna, believed to be painted by St. Luke. Throughout the centuries, this revered artwork has been a source of inspiration, hope, and comfort for millions. It stands as a symbol of strength and devotion, deeply ingrained in the hearts of the Polish nation.

Overnight at Krakow.

Today, our journey leads us to Wadowice, a small town with profound significance as the birthplace of Pope Karol Wojtyla—St. John Paul II. Delving into his early life, we'll explore the House where he was born and spent his formative years. Next to his childhood home stands the Church of the Presentation of the Virgin Mary, intimately connected to his life's milestones. It was within these sacred walls that he was baptized, received his First Holy Communion, confessed for the first time, and received the Sacrament of Confirmation. To honor this spiritual connection, we will also celebrate Mass here.

After lunch, we'll visit Kalwaria Zebrzydowska, a monastery complex with a history dating back to 1658. The renowned Weeping Madonna, acknowledged for miracles, is housed here. Spanning 300 hectares to the south are the famous Calvary paths, featuring churches, chapels, and shrines replicating Jerusalem's topography. Pope John Paul II, born in nearby Wadowice, often walked these paths and prayed before the miraculous Zebrzydowska Mother of God picture.

Overnight at Krakow.

In the morning, we'll participate in Mass at the Lagiewniki Divine Mercy Sanctuary. This basilica, dedicated to the Divine Mercy devotion, serves as the final resting place of Saint Faustina Kowalska. It also houses the second image, painted five years after her passing. Next to the basilica is Sister Faustina Convent, the dwelling where she lived and ultimately passed away.

​​A short distance away lies the John Paul II Center, named "Have No Fear!" after the memorable words spoken by the Pope in October 1978 during the inauguration of his pontificate: “Have no fear! Open wide the doors for Jesus Christ and His saving power.” The Sanctuary of Blessed John Paul II is housed here, featuring a chapel with relics of the former Pope, including a vial of his blood and more.

Overnight at Krakow.

In the first part of the morning, we embark on a city tour of Krakow, with exclusive entrances to Wawel Cathedral and St. Mary Church. Wander along Wawel Hill and marvel at the Wawel Cathedral, a splendid example of medieval architecture, featuring the breathtaking Sigismund's Chapel. Our journey will also include exploring the highlights—sites intimately connected to the life of John Paul II in Krakow.

After lunch, our next destination is the Wieliczka Salt Mine, Europe's oldest salt mine and a UNESCO Treasure. Venture underground to marvel at over 40 places of religious worship intricately carved and built from salt. The tour culminates with the option to celebrate Holy Mass at the John Paul II Salt Chapel.

Overnight at Krakow.

In the early morning of our last day, we journey to the airport to head back home. Home sweet home!