“I know a city on a hill…”

Marcia Donlon
2010 Pilgrimage

In May of 2010, my husband Jim and I were privileged to be part of the Franciscan Pilgrimage to Assisi and Rome. It was a journey that lives on in us, often on a daily basis.  What is most interesting, though, is how reflections and memories from the pilgrimage usually come to mind in unexpected ways and at unanticipated times. It seems that after being a pilgrim, all aspects of this experiential journey are woven into your being.

I remember when we were approaching Assisi on the bus, tired from the long flight but very excited to see Assisi, Father John Petrikovic, one of our facilitators, starting reciting a verse: “I know a city on a hill, a mountain’s castled crown, where like the stars, the angels tread, the streets go up and down.  A city very small and kind, and full of strange renown.” I later learned the full reading, by Alfred Noyes, is in the Pilgrim’s Companion book we all received prior to starting on the pilgrimage.

That reading became one of my favorites, but only after we returned home and I started reflecting on the pilgrimage. Father John’s recitation of it left an imprint in my mind. I encourage you to read it to see if it strikes you in the same way it did me.

Jim and I talk about what our favorite part of the pilgrimage was, and guess what? We oftentimes come up with different answers or versions of the answers. One time it will be the natural beauty of the Carceri or La Verna.The next time it will be the contemplativeness of the Carceri or La Verna. Another time it is the memory of having Mass outside at San Rufino on a beautiful May morning, while later the same day reflecting on forgiveness at La Maddalena while visiting the leper mission and touching the walls there.

Of course all of the days were filled with new experiences, regardless of where our travels took us. Getting to know our fellow pilgrims and learning, praying and having fun with them was wonderful. The history and sites in Rome were amazing, but for us, when all is said and done, Assisi  left the biggest imprint on us. “I know a city on a hill…”

Thank you so much for this wonderful and life-changing opportunity!

Marcia, administrative director of primary care/care continuity at Holy Family Memorial, Manitowoc, participated in the 2010 pilgrimage with her husband Jim.