From May 11–24, Carroll College Campus Ministry led a group of 30 students on a two-week pilgrimage to Rome and Assisi, offering participants the opportunity to visit sacred sites, deepen their faith, and experience the rich traditions of the Catholic Church.
Throughout the pilgrimage, students explored some of the most significant locations in Catholic history, from the ancient basilicas and holy sites of Rome to the peaceful hills and spiritual heritage of Assisi, home of St. Francis and St. Clare. Along the way, they encountered the beauty of the universal Church, strengthened their relationship with God, and built meaningful community with one another.
The pilgrimage offered students a unique opportunity to step away from the pace of daily life and immerse themselves in prayer, reflection, and fellowship. Walking where saints once walked and praying in places that have inspired generations of faithful Catholics provided a powerful reminder that faith is a journey meant to be shared.
"It is so incredible to walk in the footsteps of the Saints, to pray where they prayed, and to encounter the Lord in the spirituality which they paved by the witness of their lives. From the peaceful tranquility of Assisi to the bustling streets of Rome, the Lord drew us deeper into the heart of the Church and deeper into His own loving and providential heart," said Chris Yakawich, Campus Minister and Assistant Director of Campus Ministry.
Reflecting on the experience, Yakawich shared:
"For me, the most powerful moment was a graced time of prayer up at St. Francis' hermitage, in the chapel built by St. Bernardine of Siena. This chapel was built on the foundations of the cave that Francis regularly prayed in. The place was holy with the prayers of the Saints, and the treasure of relationship with God was there waiting for me in those remote mountains away from the bustle of daily life."
Students described the pilgrimage as both spiritually transformative and personally meaningful.
More photos can be found on the Carroll Facebook page.
"We had the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of saints at some of the Church’s holiest sites, alongside a dynamic community of peers from campus. Learning about the early Church and the rich history of Italy was incredible, and I felt like I could return to each site again and again and still discover something new. The spiritual and cultural depth of this pilgrimage made it an experience I’ll never forget!" said Reagan Long, a sophomore at Carroll.
Freshman Josephine Abbott reflected on the timing and impact of the experience:
"The pilgrimage to Assisi and Rome was an enlightening and empowering experience for me, and I am grateful to have gone at this specific season in my life with the people I did. There were so many amazing experiences (even the little ones) that have changed my faith and outlook on life for the better."
For sophomore Tori Wallace, the experience highlighted both the importance of community and the global nature of the Catholic faith.
"Pilgrimage was an incredible opportunity to witness God's providential love for us. Growing in community with the Carroll group and the universal Catholic family in Rome was one of many beautiful graces we received on this trip. Praying where saints have prayed and walking with them throughout this pilgrimage also renewed my excitement and love for our faith!"
Senior Asher Casey said the experience helped him appreciate both the friendships he has formed at Carroll and the communion of saints that accompanies believers on their faith journey.
"Not only did this time in Rome and Assisi help me grow closer to my peers at Carroll, but it also increased my awareness of the support and love I receive from my heavenly peers by being able to walk in their literal footsteps and see the direct fruits of their labor. Never before have I felt such a powerful intercession from the saints in Heaven"
For many participants, the pilgrimage provided a deeper understanding of the Church's history, a stronger connection to their faith, and memories that will last a lifetime. As students returned to campus and prepared for the next chapter of their journeys, they carried with them not only stories of the places they visited, but also a renewed sense of purpose, community, and faith.
More photos can be found on the Carroll Facebook page.
