POLAND - in the Footsteps of St. John Paul II

Trip Chaplains: Fr. Richard Vigoa

• The Holy Sites of Krakow

• Wadowice - Birthplace of JPII

• Auschwitz

• Divine Mercy Shrine

• Our Lady of Częstochowa

• Wieliczka Salt Mines

This Catholic pilgrimage to Poland begins in the historic city of Kraków, the spiritual home of Pope John Paul II. Upon arrival, pilgrims settle into their centrally located hotel and begin the journey with an orientation walk through the beautiful Old Town square. The first Mass of the pilgrimage is celebrated at the magnificent St. Mary's Basilica, introducing the group to the rich Catholic heritage of Poland. The following day features a walking tour through Kraków, exploring key sites connected to John Paul II’s life, culminating with Mass at the historic Wawel Cathedral, where Polish kings were crowned and where the young Karol Wojtyła served as a priest.

The pilgrimage continues with a moving excursion to Wadowice, the birthplace of John Paul II. Pilgrims visit the Wojtyła family home and pray at the Basilica of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, where the future pope was baptized. Later, the group visits the solemn Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum, reflecting on the suffering of the past while praying for peace and human dignity. The journey then turns toward the message of mercy at the Sanctuary of Divine Mercy, where pilgrims venerate the relics of Saint Faustina Kowalska and celebrate Mass at the shrine dedicated to the Divine Mercy devotion.

Additional highlights include a visit to the remarkable underground chapels of the Wieliczka Salt Mine, where the group prays the Divine Mercy Chaplet deep beneath the earth, and a day pilgrimage to Częstochowa to pray before the revered icon of the Black Madonna of Częstochowa at the Jasna Góra Monastery. The pilgrimage concludes with Sunday Mass, time for personal reflection in Kraków, and a joyful farewell dinner celebrating the graces received throughout the journey before departures the following morning.

Pilgrims arrive in Poland today, landing at John Paul II International Airport Kraków and make your way to the hotel (arrive hotel by 4:15PM on 8/31/25).

After check-in, the pilgrimage officially begins as the group gathers for an orientation walk through the charming Old Town and the vibrant Main Market Square, one of Europe’s most beautiful medieval plazas. This first introduction to Kraków allows pilgrims to experience the rich culture and deep Catholic heritage of the city so closely associated with Pope John Paul II.

The day culminates with the opening Mass of the pilgrimage at the magnificent St. Mary's Basilica, celebrated together as a group in this iconic Gothic church overlooking the square. Entrusting the days ahead to the Lord, pilgrims begin their spiritual journey in prayer and thanksgiving. After Mass, the group returns to the hotel for a welcoming dinner and fellowship before resting for the night in preparation for the days of pilgrimage ahead.

After breakfast at the hotel, the day begins with a morning reflection to prepare hearts and minds for a deeper encounter with the spiritual legacy of Pope John Paul II. Pilgrims will then set out on a guided walking tour through the historic streets of Kraków, visiting significant locations connected to the life of the young Karol Wojtyła—student, actor, priest, and eventually pope. Along the way, pilgrims will discover the rich Catholic heritage of this beautiful city that helped shape one of the most influential saints of the modern Church.

The group will celebrate Mass at the magnificent Wawel Cathedral, the historic cathedral where Polish kings were crowned and where Father Wojtyła often prayed and celebrated liturgy. Afterward, pilgrims will enjoy a relaxing picnic lunch in one of Kraków’s scenic parks, offering time for fellowship and reflection. The afternoon is free to explore the Old Town, visit local churches and shops, or simply enjoy the atmosphere of this remarkable city. Dinner will be on your own this evening before returning to the hotel for another restful night in Kraków.

After breakfast, the group departs Kraków by bus for the nearby town of Wadowice, the birthplace of Pope John Paul II. During the drive, pilgrims will hear a talk reflecting on the early life and spiritual formation of the young Karol Wojtyła. Upon arrival, the group will visit the Wojtyła family apartment, now a museum dedicated to the life and legacy of the future pope. Pilgrims will then gather for prayer and celebrate Mass at the Basilica of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the parish church where John Paul II was baptized and first nurtured in the Catholic faith. Time for lunch in Wadowice allows pilgrims to experience the charm of this small Polish town so closely connected to the Holy Father’s early life.

In the afternoon, the pilgrimage continues to the solemn grounds of the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum. During a guided tour, pilgrims will encounter this powerful place of remembrance and reflect on the immense suffering endured there during World War II. This visit offers a profound opportunity for prayer, remembrance, and renewed commitment to the dignity of every human life. After this moving experience, the group returns to Kraków. This is a free evening where you can enjoy dinner on your own.

This morning, depart by coach to the renowned Divine Mercy Shrine in Łagiewniki, one of the most important centers of devotion in the Catholic Church. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided visit of this sacred site where St. Faustina Kowalska received her visions of Jesus’ Divine Mercy. Visit the chapel housing her relics, venerate the famous Divine Mercy Image, and deepen your understanding through an inspiring talk on the message of Divine Mercy—a message of hope, forgiveness, and trust. The highlight of your visit will be the celebration of Holy Mass at the Shrine.

Lunch will be served at the shrine, with time for quiet reflection or personal prayer.

In the afternoon, take a short 15-minute walk to the nearby John Paul II Shrine, dedicated to one of the most beloved saints of modern times. Here, reflect on the life and legacy of St. John Paul II, who played a pivotal role in spreading the Divine Mercy devotion throughout the world. Explore the shrine and enjoy time for prayer and contemplation in this powerful spiritual setting.

This evening, depart for a special group dinner at Skansen Smaków, where you will enjoy traditional Polish cuisine in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. After dinner, return to your centrally located Kraków hotel for a restful overnight stay.

After breakfast, the group departs Kraków for a day pilgrimage to the great Marian shrine of Częstochowa, home to the revered icon of the Black Madonna of Częstochowa. Upon arrival at the historic Jasna Góra Monastery, pilgrims will receive an orientation and spend time in prayer before celebrating Mass in the presence of this beloved image of Our Lady, which has been a source of faith and hope for the Polish people for centuries.

Following Mass, the group will share lunch together before entering into a peaceful afternoon of prayer and retreat time at the shrine. Pilgrims will have the opportunity for personal reflection, quiet devotion, and deeper encounter with Mary’s maternal care in this sacred place. In the late afternoon, the group departs for the return journey to Kraków, where the evening is free for dinner on your own before another overnight stay in the city center.

This morning, depart by coach for the remarkable Wieliczka Salt Mine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Poland’s most extraordinary landmarks. Upon arrival, descend into a hidden underground world carved entirely from salt. During your guided tour, explore vast chambers, intricate chapels, and stunning sculptures created by miners over centuries—all deep beneath the earth’s surface.

A truly unforgettable highlight of the day will be the celebration of Holy Mass within the Salt Mine, surrounded by breathtaking salt-carved altars and chandeliers. This unique setting offers a profound and memorable spiritual experience unlike any other.

Following your visit, return by coach to Kraków’s city center.

The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. Take this time to explore the charm of Kraków’s Old Town, visit local shops and cafés, or simply relax and reflect on the day’s experiences.

In the evening, gather for dinner at Morskie Oko, a beloved local restaurant just a short walk from your hotel. Enjoy traditional Polish cuisine in a warm and inviting atmosphere as you share fellowship with your fellow pilgrims.

After dinner, return to your hotel for a peaceful overnight stay in Kraków’s city center.

After breakfast at the hotel, pilgrims gather for Sunday Mass in Kraków, joining the local faithful in worship and giving thanks for the many graces received throughout the pilgrimage. Celebrating the Lord’s Day in this historic Catholic city offers a meaningful opportunity to reflect on the spiritual experiences of the week and the inspiring legacy of saints such as Pope John Paul II and Saint Faustina Kowalska.

The remainder of the day is free to explore Kraków at your own pace. Pilgrims may choose to revisit favorite churches, stroll through the beautiful Old Town, or enjoy the cafés and shops surrounding the historic market square. In the evening, the group gathers for a joyful farewell dinner, celebrating together the friendships formed and the spiritual journey shared before one final overnight stay in Kraków.

After breakfast at the hotel, pilgrims prepare for their departures from Kraków, carrying home the many spiritual blessings and memories of this sacred journey through Poland. Transfers will take travelers to John Paul II International Airport Kraków–Balice for return flights home, marking the conclusion of a pilgrimage filled with prayer, fellowship, and encounters with places closely connected to the lives of great saints such as Pope John Paul II and Saint Faustina Kowalska.

For those with later departures, there is an opportunity to attend one final Mass at the beautiful St. Mary's Basilica in the Main Market Square, where Mass is celebrated every half hour from 6:30 AM to 11:00 AM. It is a fitting way to offer thanksgiving for the graces received during the pilgrimage before beginning the journey home.