These Hispanic pilgrims have arrived in Rome from the United States. William Cardona has prepared a journey for them to follow in the footsteps of the faith in Rome.
WILLIAM CARDONA
Pilgrimage Organizer
“We tried to organize it so the guides of each tour tell us the history of each place we see in Spanish.”
“The trip unites religion and history. Both are linked, so every day we gain a better understanding of the Scriptures and the history of Salvation.”
After two days of visiting the Eternal City, they're happy because they had the chance to see the pope.
“We have been here since 6:45 a.m. After waiting for a little bit, we entered and took the seats closest to the pope.”
“The pope was very close to us, and I was so excited to just see him that I didn't take a picture. It was a very, very beautiful experience for all of us.”
“As my wife said, we all felt many different emotions, but we all felt an inner peace from the pope's presence.”
Although they are very far from their families on this trip, their families are always on their minds.
“I have a very large Catholic family of 11 siblings. My father has already passed away, but he would be very proud to see me here. My mother is in Puerto Rico, very happy, as well.”
“We work with couples. We're from the Christian Family Movement, and we work with children or couples that have a difficult time communicating.”
“While we were preparing for the trip, I got sick. A few days ago I was sad because I thought I wouldn't be able to make the trip. But I'm here, and it's a blessing. I don't have words to explain it. How am I? Very good. Are you in pain? I don't know what you're talking about. I am super happy, it's a blessing to be here.”
The trip will continue through Assisi and continue traveling to San Giovanni Rotondo, to pray before Padre Pio's tomb.
For this group, the pilgrimage of dreams has become a reality.
