June 13th, 11:06 PM

Saint David Parish Pilgrimage – Day 3

Today began bright and early… or perhaps more accurately, before bright and early! Many of our pilgrims were awake at “zero dark thirty,” with breakfast scheduled for 5:15 a.m. and our motorcoach departing at 6:00 a.m. for the two-and-a-half-hour journey to one of France’s most breathtaking spiritual treasures: Mont Saint-Michel.

Rising dramatically from the sea, Mont Saint-Michel traces its origins to the year 708 when Saint Michael the Archangel appeared to Saint Aubert, Bishop of Avranches, instructing him to build a sanctuary on this rocky island. Over the centuries it grew into a magnificent Benedictine abbey and one of the most important pilgrimage destinations in medieval Europe. Today it remains one of the most recognizable and inspiring Christian sites in the world.

Upon arriving, our pilgrims began the climb through the narrow medieval streets toward the abbey. Reaching the top is no small feat—there are approximately 350 steps leading up to the abbey itself, not counting the many additional stairways and inclines throughout the village. Some of our group successfully made the journey all the way to the summit, where breathtaking views of the bay and the beauty of the abbey awaited them. Others chose to explore the lower town, enjoying its charm and history at a more leisurely pace. And for those wondering—yes, even I made the trek to the top!

After exploring the abbey, we gathered for the celebration of Holy Mass in Saint-Pierre Church, the parish church of Mont Saint-Michel. Tucked among the village streets below the abbey, this beautiful church has served the island’s residents and pilgrims for centuries. Celebrating the Eucharist there was a powerful reminder that while the abbey draws millions of visitors, it is Christ’s presence in the Church that remains at the heart of this sacred place.

Following Mass, pilgrims enjoyed lunch and some free time to shop, explore the village, and soak in the unique atmosphere of this remarkable island. From its winding medieval streets to its stunning vistas overlooking the sea, Mont Saint-Michel offered countless opportunities for prayer, reflection, and fellowship.

Whether climbing hundreds of steps to the abbey, celebrating Mass together, or simply enjoying the beauty of this historic pilgrimage site, today was a day filled with blessings. As pilgrims, we were reminded that the journey of faith often requires effort and perseverance, but the reward is always a deeper encounter with the Lord.

Please continue to keep our pilgrims in your prayers as our journey through France continues.