Every pilgrimage begins with the first step, but before that, it’s worth kneeling down to pray. We began our journey with a blessing at the Chapel of St. Stanislaus Kostka in Vienna, and then we participated in a communal Mass at a nearby church. Only then did we set off toward Rome.
There are ten of us: two priests, three people from Drobin, one from Płock, and four from Ciechanów. Each of us carries our own intentions and our own story. Fr. Adam set out to rediscover the beauty of his priestly vocation. Tomasz and Iwona bear witness to their marital love. Kasia works at a hospice and is a catechist, so she remembers the sick and her students in her prayers. Witek works with tires, but on the pilgrimage route, he shows that he’s not afraid of any road. Robert and Tomek prove that retirement can be the start of new challenges and wonderful adventures. Grzegorz prays for the residents of Drobin, where he serves as mayor. The ever-reliable Mariuszek watches over our luggage—just as he did during the walking pilgrimage to Jasna Góra. And, of course, he never parts with his umbrella, because that’s just a charming habit of his.
The first stage—17 kilometers to Purkersdorf—was a time for conversation, laughter, and getting to know one another. It was a special joy to have people join us for this first day. Among them were also Poles who live in Vienna. Thank you for praying with us, for your conversations, and for every step we took together. We believe that every kilometer will be not only a journey through Europe, but above all a journey toward God and toward our fellow human beings. Please pray for us—we are carrying all of you with us all the way to Rome.
