Pilgrimage to the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament | Sample Itinerary
Experience a deeply enriching Catholic pilgrimage to the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament in Hanceville, Alabama, and the nearby EWTN studios in Irondale—a sacred journey that unites profound Eucharistic devotion, the legacy of the beloved Mother Angelica, and the vibrant mission of the world's largest religious media network!
At the magnificent Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament, founded by Mother Angelica in response to a divine call from the Child Jesus, step into a breathtaking 13th-century-inspired church nestled in peaceful Alabama countryside, where the Poor Clares of Perpetual Adoration maintain constant prayer before the Blessed Sacrament; attend daily Mass (often with the nuns' beautiful chanting), experience powerful adoration, receive the sacrament of Confession, visit Mother Angelica's tomb in the lower church for quiet reflection, tour the inspiring John Paul II Eucharistic Center and St. Carlo Acutis exhibit, and stroll the serene grounds that invite spiritual renewal and a deeper love for Christ in the Eucharist.
Just an hour away, immerse yourself in the dynamic heart of EWTN—tour the state-of-the-art studios where Catholic truth reaches millions globally, attend the televised daily Mass in the chapel, join as a live audience member for beloved shows, meet inspiring hosts and Franciscan friars, and feel the excitement of being part of this media apostolate that continues Mother Angelica's bold vision to spread the Gospel.
This pilgrimage isn't just travel—it's a transformative encounter with Eucharistic adoration, faithful witness, and the enduring spirit of a nun who trusted God to build something extraordinary from humble beginnings. Prepare your heart for grace, prayer, and inspiration—your unforgettable Catholic adventure in Alabama awaits!
What's Included
- First Class Hotels
- Deluxe A/C Motor Coaches
- Entrance and Program Fees
- Guided Tours
- Learning Opportunities
- Breakfast Daily
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 Day 1 - Travel to Birmingham
This morning, depart home and begin your journey. Arrive in Birmingham and check into your hotel for a three-night stay.
Day 2 Day 2 - Early Morning Mass & Tour – Lunch at Whistle Stop Café – Afternoon at EWTN & Live Show
This full day at EWTN (Eternal Word Television Network) starts early with the EWTN’s televised Mass and Rosary. Through the morning you will meet some of your favorite EWTN hosts, hear from EWTN leaders about the network’s vision for the future. Lunch is included today at the Whistle Stop Café. Set as the iconic café in the movie, Fried Green Tomatoes, the Whistle Stop Café got its humble start in the little town of Juliette, Georgia. When filming was done, the restaurant remained open and still serves classic southern dishes and of course, Fried Green Tomatoes, every day! In the afternoon take a guided tour of the studio and facility, visit the Adoration Gift Shop, then attend: a Healing Service, Rosary with the Friars, Divine Office and Benediction. This evening you enjoy a catered dinner on the grounds before joining an exclusive audience and witnessing the broadcast of the EWTN Live Show with Fr Mitch Pacwa.
Day 3 Day 3 - Visit the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament – Mass, Confession & Shine Tours – Ave Maria Grotto
This peaceful day of retreat begins at the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament in Hanceville, AL. The Shrine was built by Mother Angelica, a Poor Clare Nun, in response to the Child Jesus’ request that she build Him a “Temple.” Here, the Poor Clare Nuns keep a constant prayer vigil before the Lord Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament. They invite people from all walks of life and faith to see what the Lord has accomplished here and join them in prayer. The Shrine consists of: Cloistered monastery, beautiful Upper and Lower Churches, replica of the Shroud of Turin, Stations of the Cross, religious statues and paintings, near life-sized Nativity scene and Castle which houses the Gift Shop. You will spend the morning entire morning here. There is time to celebrate Mass, give confession and tour the Shrine. This afternoon, visit the Ave Maria Grotto, where you enjoy at The Retreat Center on arrival. Then have time for Mass before touring the sculpture gardens. Following lunch your afternoon is spent touring The Ave Maria Grotto, home to the fruitful labor of Brother Joseph Zoettl, OSB. Br. Joseph was a Benedictine monk of St. Bernard Abbey. Originally from Landschutt, Bavaria-Germany, a young Br. Joseph found himself headed to America to pursue monastic life at Alabama’s only Benedictine Abbey. Little did anyone know that this young Bavarian would end up leaving the abbey its greatest legacy and in an incredibly humble way. Since 1934, people from around the world visit the Ave Maria Grotto to see famous parts of the world in miniature. The former abbey quarry is now the 4-acre park that the Grotto and surrounding miniatures rest upon. From Monteserrat to St. Peter’s Basilica, guests can enjoy this labor of love and hopefully go away realizing how small acts of love, no matter how seemingly insignificant, can be fruitful for years to come. Dinner is on own.
Day 4 Day 4 - Return Home
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before checking out and departing for home.
