ROME, ITALY — A recent pilgrimage to Rome brought together a group of travelers from St. Cloud, Minnesota, fostering unexpected reunions and deepening spiritual connections. Amidst the historic backdrop of the city, participants experienced both personal and communal moments of faith, culminating in shared reflections on the significance of their journey.
During a Mass at the Pontifical North American College, participant Jennie Korsmo surprised fellow pilgrim Liz Lev with a heartfelt embrace. This encounter was unexpected, as earlier plans had not included a rendezvous in such a distant location. Hours later, after attending the noonday Angelus with Pope Francis in St. Peter’s Square, Liz and her husband, Troy, encountered familiar faces, including Deacon Rick Lagasse and his wife Denise, further reinforcing the sense of community among Midwestern pilgrims.
The group, led by Rev. Scott Pogatchnik, rector of St. Mary’s Cathedral in St. Cloud, embraced the spiritual depth of the pilgrimage. Rev. Pogatchnik, who once studied engineering at North Dakota State University, reflected on how the journey was a chance to reconnect with faith in a historically significant context. The pilgrimage coincided with the declared Jubilee Year of Hope, offering a unique opportunity for renewal.
Exploring the Spiritual Legacy of Rome
The tradition of the Jubilee is deeply rooted in Christian history, with origins tracing back to 1300 when Pope Boniface VIII first proclaimed a jubilee year. This year, pilgrims flocked to Rome, drawn by the promise of spiritual renewal and the opportunity to pass through the holy doors of various churches. These doors symbolize entry into a sacred space, offering blessings and reflecting the essence of Christian faith as a journey toward salvation.
Liz and Troy, motivated by their desire to pray for their family and celebrate their upcoming 34th wedding anniversary, found their experience profoundly moving. They participated in a special procession into St. Peter’s Basilica, the largest church in the world. The emotional weight of carrying a large cross during the procession resonated deeply with Liz, prompting reflections on the personal struggles they have faced.
Throughout their pilgrimage, the couple visited several iconic churches and landmarks, including the renowned Pietà by Michelangelo. Each site offered a moment of awe and reflection, reminding them of the legacy of faith and perseverance that has shaped Christianity. The various art and architecture they encountered underscored the richness of their faith, as well as the sacrifices made by countless individuals throughout history.
Connecting Through Shared Faith
Beyond the grandeur of Rome, the pilgrimage also included visits to other historically significant locations such as Siena and Assisi. In Siena, the narrow streets and vibrant shops provided a glimpse into the lives of past pilgrims. In Assisi, the spirit of St. Francis inspired Liz and Troy as they sang “The Prayer of Saint Francis” during Mass. These experiences highlighted the interconnectedness of faith journeys and the personal significance of each location.
As their time in Rome came to a close, Liz and Troy reflected on the journey’s impact. The pilgrimage not only deepened their faith but also strengthened their ties with fellow travelers from their home region. On their final morning, a taxi ride through the bustling streets of Rome served as a poignant reminder of the connections made during their time in the city. The phrase “All Roads Lead to Home” captured the essence of their journey, emphasizing the importance of returning to one’s roots and the ultimate destination of faith.
This pilgrimage, rich in historical and spiritual significance, illustrated how paths converging in Rome can lead to profound personal reflections and communal connections. As Liz noted, the journey reaffirmed the timeless adage that all roads, indeed, lead to home, whether that be Fargo or the eternal home promised in faith.