I’m Going to France…and I Want You With Me!

Ten years ago, I shared this monumental trip with you on the blog (yes, I’ve been blogging forever). And, if you read my book, you know that I chat about France in chapter one. Our visit to France and the many spiritual mountaintops really did help prepare my heart when we were sucker punched with Luke’s traumatic birth.

To venture back to almost all the same places (plus the bonus of Lourdes!) eleven years later on a pilgrimage with a boat full of women will most certainly be a full-circle moment. I’m betting there will be some tears and many prayers of gratitude.

Yes. About 100 women, plus three priests and an awesome Christian musician, Danielle Noonan, will be venturing to France, October 3-11, 2020 on a “sisters and saints” pilgrimage. It’s spearheaded by Claire Swinarski and I’m incredibly honored to be one of the speakers. My mom is even going, y’all! But don’t you worry, we won’t be doing any arts and crafts or holding hands and singing kumbaya. You know how I feel about authentic living and authentic relationships. THAT’S what you can expect.

Four women saints will guide us: St. Therese, St. Joan of Arc, St. Catherine Laboure and St. Bernadette. We’ll be visiting the cities of Lisieux, Honfleur, Normandy Beaches, Mont St. Michel, Rouen, Paris and Lourdes, the optional extension. And, because three amazing priests are joining us (Fr. Eric Sternberg, Fr. Andrew Infanger and Fr. Tyler Tenbarge), there will be lots of opportunities to celebrate the sacraments of Mass and Reconciliation.

I know that it’s a big investment of time and treasure. Put it to prayer, rally the community and see what God has to say. And if you aren’t able to make the pilgrimage with us in person, know that I’m taking your intentions with me to all the places and I’ll be sharing on social media. Praise be for the Internet, right?!

You can read all about the details over on Claire’s blog. And, holler if you have any questions! Hope to see you in France!