04/02/2026
Pilgrimage to Italy hosted by the Villanova Prep Augustinians
Father Barnaby Johns, prior provincial of the Augustinians, and I cordially invite you to join a sacred pilgrimage through Italy to celebrate the Augustinian heritage and visit historic churches, monasteries, and landmarks significant to our tradition—from Rome to Milan, including Vatican City.
Our Augustinian Brothers rejoice that one of our own has been called to serve as Pope Leo XIV, whose pastoral vision will continue to guide the Universal Church. Reflecting on the meaning of this journey, Pope Leo reminds us, “A pilgrimage has an important role in our faith because it gives us the time and space to encounter God more deeply.” This journey offers pilgrims an extraordinary opportunity to honor this moment in our shared faith and history.
To further reflect on the spiritual significance of pilgrimage, we invite you to watch a brief video message from Pope Leo, in which he speaks movingly about the role of a pilgrimage in deepening our relationship with God.
Throughout this pilgrimage, travelers will experience a deepened understanding of the mission and values of St. Augustine. As St. Augustine taught, “God is best discovered in the company of friends,” and it is in that same spirit of friendship and community that we will walk together in prayer, reflection, and fellowship. Mass will be celebrated daily.
The pilgrimage will start on Monday, October 18, and conclude in Milan on Friday, October 29, 2027. Accommodations will include a stay at a historic villa in Tuscany, featuring day excursions to Florence, Siena, and San Gimignano, home to the renowned Sant’Agostino Monastery. While in Italy, pilgrims will enjoy four-star accommodations, luxury coach transportation, fine meals, and curated Tuscan wine experiences, as detailed in the accompanying itinerary.
We invite you to join this extraordinary pilgrimage, blending spiritual renewal and Augustinian reflection with the timeless beauty, history, and hospitality of Italy—an experience to be shared in faith, friendship, and gratitude.
Download the Pilgrimage Brochure with this link.
You are invited to attend a special Zoom session that will highlight the Augustian Pilgrimage and provide you with an opportunity to learn about the trip details. Register for the Zoom session.
For additional information regarding the Pilgrimage, please contact Dr. Gabe Soumakian, one of Villanova's Board Members, who has curated this tour. E-mail: [email protected] and/or 626-376-7670 for registration link and information.
Thanks,
James C. Link
President
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Villanova Preparatory School
Villanova Preparatory School 1000 East Villanova Road Ojai, California 93023 (805) 646-1464
