Our pilgrimage begins when we depart from Phoenix for Washington, D.C. On arrival we transfer by motor coach to visit The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary (also called the Baltimore Basilica, or the Old Cathedral). It is the first Catholic Cathedral built in the United States, constructed just after the adoption of the US Constitution. Next, we visit Mother Seton House, where Elizabeth Ann and her three daughters came in 1808, from New York City, to establish a boarding school for girls. Our day will end at one of the many restaurants that line Baltimore harbor. Overnight in Washington, D.C. area.

Snacks and refreshments served on the plane & welcome Dinner | Overnight stay in Overnight in Washington, D.C. area

After breakfast we’ll depart on a day trip to Emmitsburg, Maryland where we will spend the day visiting the National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton. We will participate in the Mass and devotions at the Grotto before visiting the National Shrine Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes. Dinner and overnight in Washington, D.C. area.

Breakfast & Dinner | Overnight stay in Overnight in Washington, D.C. area

This morning we visit St. Mary Seminary of the Archdiocese of Baltimore, the first seminary founded in the United States. Next, we’ll make our way to Washington, D.C. to visit the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, America’s Catholic Church and the National Sanctuary of Prayer and Pilgrimage. This Shrine is located on the campus of the Catholic University of America. Next, we will visit the St. John Paul II National Shrine which is a place of worship, religious formation, and cultural renewal to feed the minds and souls of its visitors. It is a place of pilgrimage with a first-class relic of St. John Paul’s blood available for veneration. After dinner, we will take a night tour of Washington. Overnight Washington, D.C. area.

Breakfast & Dinner | Overnight stay in Overnight in Washington, D.C. area

Today we will spend all day in the capitol, touring such sights as the Lincoln, Jefferson and Vietnam memorials, the National Mall, the Capitol, and the Supreme Court. We will finish the day with Mass at the beautiful St. Joseph’s on Capitol Hill, built by German immigrants shortly after the Civil War. Overnight Washington, D.C. area.

Breakfast & Dinner | Overnight stay in Overnight in Washington, D.C. area

Day at leisure to visit the many museums in Washington. Explore the many Smithsonian museums, National Art Gallery, and maybe even walk by the White House! Dinner and overnight in Washington, D.C. area.

Breakfast & Dinner | Overnight stay in Overnight in Washington, D.C. area

After breakfast we will head to Chesapeake Bay for a boat tour. We will experience the beautiful fall foliage surrounding the bay. Then, grateful for our time together and replete with many memories, we fly home to Phoenix and our home parish of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton mindful of her prayer: “Blessed, blessed Lord, keep us always in Your company and press our weak hearts forever in Your service.”

Breakfast & Snacks and refreshments served on the plane