The first Catholic Church I ever stepped into was in my hometown in Kansas when I was a young girl. It was a small little church—Sacred Heart—that was, sadly, burned down by an arsonist.
I went to that church because I’d had a sleep over with my best friend.
It would be another 15 some years before I stepped into another one—St. Patrick’s in New York. By that time, my heart was so hard to Catholicism, I couldn’t appreciate the beauty of it. I just stood in the back with a scowl on my face. Can you imagine that?
Today, I can’t get enough of visiting Catholic Churches. If it’s been awhile since I’ve seen a new one, I get an itch to and feel almost compelled to seek out a new one.
I love the anticipation just before I open the door to see what’s inside. I love the comfort of the red candle silently letting us know Christ is present. I love the smell of an old church. In a crazy world, there is no greater balm.
My favorite church that I visited this year was at Fatima. It was a one day mini-pilgrimage I will never forget.
So, what about you, Catholic Pilgrims? What was your favorite church that you visited in 2023? Maybe it’s your hometown church that you attend every Sunday. Maybe you took a great trip. I’d love to hear what was your favorite church from this year.
My goal for 2024? I have to see the Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine in St. Augustine, Florida before I leave this side of the country.
Live the Faith boldly and travel well this Wednesday.
