Traveling to Rome and northern Italy was my first experience of staying outside the United States. It can be a frightening experience being a tourist in another country. However, it was not frightening being a pilgrim. One of the daunting tasks that lies ahead of anyone in a foreign country is the language barrier. Even speaking to other pilgrims was a challenge, but when we are all on a common road to spirituality and communion all barriers are broken and we can all share in each other’s love. This experience calls to mind the first Pentecost where it did not matter where you were from or what language you spoke. All that mattered was receiving the Holy Spirit and welcoming it into our lives. This experience was truly a blessing and I would like to thank everyone who made this trip possible for me. A special thanks goes out to all those who contributed to the fundraising effort. What we appreciated the most on this trip were all the prayers that were with us from the parish. Another thanks to everyone you are eternally in my prayers.

Adam Barajas, 16 years old, Senior, Holy Cross Catholic School