Join us for a memorable day of faith, fellowship, history, and beauty as we journey through Wisconsin and Iowa on this inspiring Catholic pilgrimage. Along the way, we’ll visit beloved shrines, a peaceful monastery, and one of the Midwest’s most beautiful cathedrals, enjoying prayer, Mass, guided tours, delicious food, and the company of fellow pilgrims. We’ll conclude our day with a relaxing visit to a scenic winery before returning home refreshed, encouraged, and renewed in faith. Whether you’re seeking spiritual enrichment, meaningful fellowship, or simply a day away to encounter God’s presence, this pilgrimage offers a perfect blend of devotion, discovery, and joy.
**Please note that, due to the nature of this pilgrimage and the group dining arrangements, we are unable to accommodate individual dietary preferences or special meal requests. If you have significant dietary restrictions or food allergies, please contact our office prior to registering so we can discuss whether this pilgrimage will be a good fit for your needs.
*To pay with Zelle or check, enter the discount code "CHECK" in discount box.*
Board our comfortable 56-passenger bus enroute to our pilgrimage along the Mississippi!
One of the most unique and beloved Catholic shrines in America, renowned for its extraordinary mosaics, devotional shrines, and inspiring witness of faith. The Dickeyville Grotto at the Holy Ghost Church in Dickeyville, WI is a unique Catholic shrine where faith, beauty, and craftsmanship come together in dazzling mosaics of stone, shells, and precious materials. Created as a place of prayer and devotion, it invites pilgrims to encounter God through sacred art and quiet reflection.
Our next peaceful stop is the peaceful surroundings of Our Lady of the Mississippi Abbey in Dubuque, Iowa, home of the Trappistine nuns, whose lives are dedicated to prayer, contemplation, and worship. We will have the opportunity to visit their beautiful monastery and famous gift shop featuring monastery-made caramels
Our journey continues to the Cathedral of St. Raphael in Dubuque, the Mother Church of the Archdiocese of Dubuque and one of Iowa's most treasured Catholic landmarks, recently restored to its original beauty through an extensive renovation.
Steeped in grace and history, this sacred cathedral traces its roots to 1833, when the first Catholic missionaries brought the faith to the region. The original stone church, built in 1835 by the pioneering Dominican priest Father Samuel Mazzuchelli, became the foundation upon which the Catholic Church in Iowa would flourish.
Today, the cathedral serves as the spiritual heart of the Archdiocese and the seat of the entire Catholic Ecclesiastical Province of Iowa. Within this magnificent sanctuary, we will gather to celebrate the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass with Father DiTomo, offering our prayers in a place where generations of faithful have encountered God's grace.
Experience the flavors of the heartland with a classic Iowa luncheon catered to the cathedral hall. Enjoy a classic Iowa lunch featuring tender roasted chicken, all the fixin's and homemade pie. As we dine together in the cathedral hall, we will continue our visit to the Cathedral of St. Raphael as our tour guide leads us in the rich history and life of the community before setting out on the tour. The hearty and welcoming menu celebrates Iowa hospitality and provides a delicious, satisfying dining experience for all who gather in anticipation of the tour.
We continue our visit to the cathedral by stepping into history and architectural wonder. The Cathedral of St. Raphael, a crown jewel of Dubuque promises an unforgettable experience for history buffs, architecture lovers, and travelers alike. As the oldest continuous Christian congregation in Iowa, this majestic Gothic Revival masterpiece invites you to marvel at its soaring central tower and newly completed, multi-million dollar interior restoration. Walk beneath breathtaking vaulted ceilings, gaze at the vibrant, meticulously preserved stained glass, and feel the deep sense of heritage that radiates from every stone.
Nestled high on a hill bordering 600 acres of peaceful state parkland, Hawk’s Mill Winery in Browntown, Wisconsin, offers a beautifully relaxed, welcoming place to wrap up our pilgrimage. Far from a stiff or formal tasting room, this inviting setting embraces you with a cozy, laid-back charm designed for pure comfort and connection. We'll enjoy a group wine tasting of their finest wines, paired with delicious snacks, and have time to shop for wine before we depart on our way back to St. Mary Huntley!
We travel home to Huntley arriving around 6:30 PM renewed in Christ and friendship after a day of Mass, prayer, fellowship, and spiritual reflection throughout the day!