The Province of Saint Mary of the Angels in Poland has once again undertaken the pilgrimage from Krakow to Jasna Góra. This year, about 270 people took part in the journey, experiencing six intense days of prayer, formation, fraternity, and Franciscan joy.
The pilgrimage began with the Eucharistic celebration on Wawel Hill. The journey then continued through the territories of the Krakow-Czestochowa Jura, facing sun and rain, fatigue, and tiredness, but also sharing songs, reflections, and gestures of mutual support.
Daily prayer, the celebration of the Mass and moments of formation marked the different stages of the pilgrimage. Br. Jerzy Kraj, OFM shared his experience of service in the Holy Land, while Br. Łukasz Buksa, OFM, proposed a reflection on the relationship with God and neighbour.
In Kosmolów, Br. Krzysztof Bobak, OFM, Minister Provincial, presided at Mass and entrusted the pilgrims to God's protection. Along the way, there was no shortage of meetings with the friars, Franciscan humour, songs, and many moments of joyful fraternity. Br. Piotr Antoniuk, OFM animated the competition "Put the friar in difficulty", while Br. Piotr Gądek, OFM, former guide of the pilgrimage, visited the participants during the walk.
Particular attention was also paid to the missionary dimension, with a conference on the service of Franciscan missionaries in Africa. The pilgrims learned more about this experience and how to support missionary work.
The last stage led the pilgrims through Olsztyn and the hill of Przeprośna Górka, where Cardinal Grzegorz Ryś presided over a penitential celebration. Br. Krzysztof Bobak, OFM, also participated in the prayer. Along the way, pilgrims were also accompanied by the relics of St. Francis of Assisi.
After six days of walking, the pilgrims finally reached Jasna Góra. In an atmosphere of prayer, song, and joy, they gathered before the image of the Black Madonna of Częstochowa, entrusting her with their intentions, loved ones, and what they carried in their hearts along the way.
The pilgrimage culminated in the Mass celebrated in the meadows of Jasna Góra, presided over by Cardinal Grzegorz Ryś. The day and the entire pilgrimage ended with the traditional Jasna Góra Appeal.
The six days of walking were an experience of faith lived in community, marked by prayer, encounter, formation, fraternity, and Franciscan joy.
