From May 18-30, a group of Siena community members embarked on an Italian Pilgrimage to explore the history behind the Franciscan mission, heritage and tradition that Siena was founded upon.
Exploring historically rich and beautiful locations such as Rome, Siena and Assisi, the Saints were able to enjoy the fun, vibrant culture of Italy while also learning about what made St. Francis and St. Clare of Assisi so revered.
The Pilgrims grabbed a glimpse of Italy’s famous landmarks such as the Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, and the Roman Forum, while also seeing the beautiful artwork of the country; Michelangelo’s David, and the Convento San Marco’s frescos by Fra Angelico.
They visited many of Italy’s churches and basilicas, celebrating mass and holding prayer services surrounded by the history of the Franciscan Order. While driving through the Tuscan wine country, the group made a stop at Mount LaVerna in the Appenines, St. Francis of Assisi’s holy mountain. Here, where St. Francis encountered the crucified Christ and received the stigmata, the group was able to hold a special prayer service.
The Pilgrims also had the pleasure of meeting with United States Ambassador to the Holy See, Kenneth Hackett, during their time in Italy. Siena College recognized Ambassador Hackett with an honorary degree of Doctor of Humane Letters in 2000. The Ambassador and his family dined with the Siena travelers during their time in Rome.
After their 12 day adventure through Franciscan Italy, the Pilgrims returned home to Loudonville with a deeper sense of connection with the mission and heritage of the Franciscan tradition that Siena is founded upon, as well as a strengthened bond with their fellow alumna, faculty/staff, friars, parents and friends of the College that took part in the 2016 Pilgrimage to Italy.
