Pilgrims of Hope: Diocese of Erie journeys to Italy
By Kristine Rilling10/28/2025
A group of pilgrims from across the Diocese of Erie recently returned from a faith-filled journey to Italy, part of the worldwide celebration of the Jubilee Year of Hope. The pilgrimage traced some of the most sacred places in the Catholic tradition — from the ruins of Pompeii and the shores of Sorrento to the shrine of Padre Pio in San Giovanni Rotondo, the Eucharistic miracle site in Lanciano and finally the Holy Doors of Rome.
Led by Father Michael DeMartinis, as spiritual guide, the group celebrated Mass in historic churches, shared reflections and experienced firsthand the depth of the Catholic Church’s heritage. A highlight came as the Erie pilgrims joined the audience with Pope Leo XIV, standing among thousands from around the world to receive his blessing and feel the unity of the universal church.
Beyond the sacred sites, what unfolded was something deeply human. Pilgrims looked after one another on cobblestone streets and steep steps. A familiar flag waved above the crowd each day, ensuring no one was left behind. Families and new friends shared quiet laughter, while sisters in San Giovanni reminisced late into the night about their youth. Couples walked side by side as best friends; others carried private prayers for healing, for loved ones or for the strength to forgive what God already had.
Father DeMartinis helped pilgrims see how every experience — from laughing together to shared meals — connected to the Gospel. The Italian tour guides brought Italy’s history and faith to life, offering stories that deepened understanding of both the culture and Catholicism.
By the time the group returned home, their hearts were lighter, their bonds stronger and their hope renewed. What began as a trip across Italy became a living lesson in how to walk with purpose — to see every step, even the uneven ones, as part of God’s path.
Along the way, the group was encouraged to listen to one another’s stories, to the stillness of prayer and to the quiet voice of God that often speaks in the simplest moments. And when fatigue set in after long days or steep climbs, laughter followed — with a cheerful refrain, “Are we having fun yet?” reminding everyone that joy is a kind of grace, too.
Pilgrimage has a way of teaching what life itself often does: that things may change, plans may shift, and we don’t always know what comes next — but God walks with us through it all.
Experience the full story, along with photos and reflections from our pilgrims, in the upcoming issue of Faith magazine.
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