2nd International Montfortian Pilgrimage in South Korea
[FR]
SEOUL, South Korea – Pilgrims of the Montfort Missionaries and the Association of Mary Queen of All Hearts, in partnership with JTY Dreams Travel and Tours from the Mactan Cebu International Airport, embarked on a spiritual journey to South Korea, culminating in a transformative pilgrimage filled with prayer, reflection, and exploration of sacred sites.
The pilgrimage commenced on the evening of April 8, 2024, as the travelers arrived in Incheon, South Korea, before making their way to the Rich Diamond Hotel in Seoul. Despite the late hour, spirits were high as the group gathered for a night prayer en route to their destination.
The following morning, after a hearty breakfast, the pilgrims embarked on their first stop at the Joeldusan Martyr's Ground, paying homage to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for their faith. The pilgrims got to learn how St. Andrew Kim Tae-gun and his company of martyrs have been persecuted yet held on strong in their faith.
An unexpected opportunity arose as news spread that Mama Julia Kim and Fr. Jerry ORBOS, SVD would be at Naju Shrine. This prompted a change in plans, leading the group to skip the Anseong Marinae Holy Site and headed directly to Naju.
En route to Naju, the pilgrims enjoyed a scrumptious lunch at Anseong-si, Gyeonggi-do, before arriving at Naju Shrine, where they had the privilege of meeting the esteemed individuals. This was really an unexpected highlight of the pilgrimage as the group were able to meet, greet, get a hug and gifts from Mama Julia Kim herself. She was the one who experienced the Eucharistic Miracles firsthand in Naju, South Korea. It was a very humbling experience among the pilgrims and indeed a blessing. The day concluded with a stay at Naju Centum Hotel, marking the end of a spiritually enriching day.
On April 10, 2024, the pilgrims returned to Naju Shrine for a memorable Holy Mass, extending gratitude to the sisters who warmly welcomed them. The Mass was celebrated by the Montfortian Priests Rev. Fr. Federick B. YUMANG, SMM and Rev. Fr. Armel R. COLLANTES, SMM. Following the Mass, the group ventured to Mary's Ark of Salvation, where they learned further about the miracles of Our Lady of Naju associated with Mama Julia Kim. After a satisfying lunch, the journey continued to Seoul, where the Myeongdong Cathedral awaited their visit, deepening their spiritual experience.
The fourth day of the pilgrimage, April 11, 2024, commenced with an early visit to The Shrine of Our Lady of the Rosary of Namyang, followed by a peaceful prayer session. Subsequently, the pilgrims indulged in a delightful lunch before embarking on visits to Nami Island and the Garden of Morning Calm, immersing themselves in the natural beauty of South Korea.
As the pilgrimage drew to a close on April 12, 2024, the group seized the opportunity to explore the historical Gyeongbukgong Palace, adorned in traditional Korean hanbok attire. The day also included visits to the Korean Ginseng Center, the Red Pine shop, and the Haechan Songhak Laver, where the pilgrims engaged in a kimchi-making experience, further enriching their cultural immersion.
The journey concluded with a visit to a shopping center in Incheon for the purchase of souvenirs before bidding farewell to South Korea with a final dinner at a nearby restaurant. With hearts full of gratitude and memories cherished, the pilgrims departed from Incheon International Airport, returning to Cebu, Philippines, carrying with them the blessings and spiritual insights gained from their pilgrimage in South Korea.
Eleonor M. TY
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