Whispers of Saints | REFLECTIONS FROM ROME 2024

As the final rays of the Italian sun dipped below the horizon, we gazed back at the grandeur of Rome one last time and set our sights on the small country village of Ars, France. Our month-long pilgrimage had been a profound journey through the heart of the Catholic faith, each step imbued with history, devotion, and the whisperings of saints. From the awe-inspiring majesty of St. Peter’s Basilica to the quiet reverence of the Catacombs, we had walked paths trodden by centuries of pilgrims, absorbing the spiritual richness that Rome had to offer.

This pilgrimage was more than a tour; it was an immersive encounter with the core of our priestly calling. Daily Masses, prayers at ancient altars, and reflections in serene chapels deepened our understanding of the priesthood’s sacred responsibility. Encounters with the relics of saints and the vibrant Catholic community in Rome further cemented my resolve to pursue a priestly vocation and inspired a renewed sense of purpose. The Eternal City, with its blend of the divine and the historical, had left an indelible mark on each of us.

Our pilgrimage found its poignant conclusion in the quaint village of Ars, France, known for its association with St. John Vianney, the patron saint of parish priests. Here, in the tranquility of a retreat, we were given the space to internalize and reflect on our experiences. The retreat offered a stark contrast to the bustling streets of Rome; the silence and simplicity of Ars provided the perfect environment for deep spiritual introspection and growth.

In Ars, we delved into the life and teachings of St. John Vianney, whose humility, devotion, and unwavering commitment to his parishioners served as an exemplary model of the priesthood. The serene countryside, coupled with the profound spiritual legacy of St. Vianney, created an atmosphere of contemplation and renewal. Daily we had meditations, communal prayers, and personal reflections, and I found myself drawing closer to my vocation, fortified by the journey that had brought me here.

Now as most of us prepare to return to our dioceses and then seminaries, we carry with us the rich tapestry of experiences and lessons from Rome and Ars. This pilgrimage not only solidified our faith but also strengthened our bond as future priests. With hearts full of gratitude and spirits rejuvenated, we look forward to the path ahead, ready to serve and lead with the same zeal and compassion that had been the hallmark of this journey. St. John Vianney, pray for us.

Patrick Cook
Diocese of Tyler