As the reality of a new school year begins to set in, students reminisce about their summer fun. Although Erin Cowley ’15 and Rose Belcastro ’15 are once again wearing their plaid skirts, they still can be heard discussing their two-week long pilgrimage throughout Europe.

“We traveled with about 20 high school students. We all got to know each other really well during the two weeks,” said Crowley.

The group traveled to Lourdes, France, Salamanca, Spain, and Fatima and Caiscai, Portugal. Throughout the trip, the group was constantly busy.

“In Lourdes we did a lot of service work. After breakfast we would walk across the grotto to where our ‘malades,’ the elderly and sick, were staying for the week. We would then bring them to wherever they needed to be throughout the day. It was awesome to get to help them,” said Belcastro.

“As a group we always had mass once a day followed by lunch. Then after dinner we would go to the procession every night. After a meeting with our small groups, we had an hour of free time,” said Crowley.

“My favorite part of the trip would be the processions, because it was so amazing to see all the people that come from all over the world to show their faith,” said Belcastro.

Although the trip was very spiritual and focused on service, the group was also able to sightsee and experience the European culture.

“One day while in Lourdes we had a lot of free time, so we were able to take a train ride up a mountain. There was a giant cross at the top that could be seen everywhere in the town. It was really beautiful,” said Belcastro.

“I loved the grotto, and all of the people I met were incredible. It’s hard to pick my favorite part. It was a once in a life time experience, and I’m so glad I was able to go,” said Crowley.”

Now that Crowley and Belcastro have returned back to school, they can be heard reminiscing about the fun they had, and recommending the trip to fellow students.