In the Footsteps of St. Francis:

We will begin with prayer, reflection, and meditation, guided by the wisdom of St. Francis.

We will experince the journey of St. Francis through the insightful guidance of our amazing host, Rossella Vasta. As we walk in his footsteps, we will explore the landscapes, sacred sites, and stories that shaped his extraordinary path of faith, simplicity, and love.

We will gather for reflection with Jonathan, Kris, and Valerie, creating space to deepen our connection to the values we hold—contemplation, compassion, hospitality, simplicity, care for the earth, and transformation. Through shared insights, personal reflection, and meaningful conversation, St. Francis’ spirit will inspire our journey, opening our hearts to his timeless wisdom.

Our home for 9 nights in Umbria, the green heart of Italy. Villa Pieve is located on 8 acres of land next to an historical, medieval castle in the foothills of one of Italy’s most beautiful towns, Corciano. On our final evening, we will come together in community for a celebratory Gala dinner, joined by invited guests, to honor the Christine Center’s 45th anniversary and the 25th anniversary of Villa Pieve International School.

Discover the charm of this historic medieval town, where St. Francis passed through on his journeys between Assisi and Perugia. Enjoy a special welcome and souvenir from the Minister of Corciano, visit the Antiquarium museum, and tour artist Rossella Vasta’s Studio to see and hear about her art and the Table of Silence, a reflection on peace and unity that resonates with Franciscan values.

Perugia played a significant role in Francis’ early life. After being captured in battle between Assisi and Perugia in 1202, he spent a year in captivity, an experience that shaped his journey toward spiritual transformation. Visit landmarks such as Rocca Paolina, Fontana Maggiore, the Etruscan Arch, and the Roman Aqueduct while hearing stories of Francis’ time in the city. Enjoy a winery tour and sampling of local delicacies at L’Azienda Agraria Carini, and take part in a special cooking demonstration of mostaccioli, the traditional honey-almond cookies associated with St. Francis.

Rivotorto was one of the first places where St. Francis and his early followers lived in extreme poverty, dedicating themselves to prayer and service, particularly caring for lepers. Visit the Sanctuary of Rivotorto, a site deeply connected to his ministry of compassion. Enjoy a typical Umbrian meal before touring the Basilica of Santa Maria degli Angeli, home of the beloved Porziuncola chapel, where Francis received his divine calling and where he spent his final days. Explore a Franciscan bookstore and see the church where St. Clare sought refuge on Palm Sunday, marking the beginning of her own radical journey in the footsteps of Francis.

Visit the Franciscan Hermitage Le Celle, a place of deep solitude where St. Francis wrote his Testament, reflecting on his life’s mission. Here, he and his followers retreated in prayer, seeking communion with God in nature. Also visit the Basilica of St. Margaret of Cortona, dedicated to a saint whose life of repentance and service closely echoes Francis’ call to conversion and humility.

This small church holds a profound place in Francis’ journey. It was here that, while praying before the crucifix, he heard the voice of Christ saying, “Francis, rebuild my church, which is falling into ruin.” Initially interpreting this literally, he began restoring the structure before realizing his true mission: to renew the Church through a life of simplicity and love. Visit this sacred space, attend Vespers, and experience a special concert inspired by the Canticle of the Creatures, Francis’ great hymn of praise for creation.

Ferry to this picturesque island where St. Francis spent Lent in complete solitude, mirroring Christ’s 40 days in the wilderness. Follow in his footsteps with time for reflection in the serene natural surroundings, experiencing the peacefulness that Francis sought in his moments of retreat and prayer.

Explore the site of the first Nativity scene, created by St. Francis in 1223 to bring the mystery of Christ’s birth to life. In a humble cave, he gathered villagers and animals to re-enact the story, emphasizing the simplicity and wonder of the Incarnation. Reflect on the origins of this beloved tradition, which continues to inspire hearts around the world.

Experience the heart of St. Francis’ life and legacy. Visit the Cathedral of San Rufino, where he and St. Clare were baptized, the Basilica of St. Clare, where the San Damiano crucifix is enshrined, and the grand Basilica of St. Francis, which houses his tomb. Walk through the sacred spaces that shaped his journey and visit the Santuario della Spoliazione, where the young millennial saint Carlo Acutis is interred, connecting past and present through lives of holiness and devotion.