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April 16, 2025Early in the morning on April 2, a group from Saint Ann Retirement Center embarked on a spiritually uplifting pilgrimage to the National Shrine of the Infant Jesus in Prague, an Oklahoma site renowned for its historical significance and profound spiritual atmosphere.
At 8:45 a.m., the pilgrims gathered at the shrine, preparing their hearts for the Holy Mass at 9 a.m. Following the Mass, they entered into a peaceful Holy Hour of Eucharistic Adoration. During this sacred time, pilgrims recited the Rosary and the Divine Mercy Chaplet, and many took the opportunity to receive the Sacrament of Confession.
Concluding this prayerful morning, each pilgrim was individually anointed, strengthening them spiritually and physically for their ongoing journey.
The pilgrimage took place during a special time of grace – the 2025 Jubilee Year, themed “Pilgrims of Hope.” This Holy Year invites Christians to experience a vivid and personal encounter with God, who is our ultimate source of joy and salvation.
Pilgrims were reminded of the spiritual blessings available through the plenary indulgence granted during the Jubilee, attainable by meeting the following conditions: Sacramental Confession, reception of Holy Communion and prayer for the intentions of the Holy Father.
Reflecting on the theme of hope, Psalm 125 resonated deeply with the pilgrims: “Those trusting in the Lord are like Mount Zion, unshakable, forever enduring. As mountains surround Jerusalem, the Lord surrounds his people both now and forever” (verses 1-2). This powerful image of God's unshakable presence served as a reassuring reminder throughout the pilgrimage.
Indeed, despite the physical challenges of traveling from Oklahoma City to Prague, including the cramped quarters and the inevitable discomforts of travel, the elderly pilgrims displayed patience, joy and resilience. Their cheerful sacrifice was deeply inspiring and a testament to their profound faith. Upon arrival at the National Shrine, their fatigue seemed to transform into renewed energy, their hearts infused with palpable joy and peace.
Echoing the spirit of pilgrimage, Psalm 84 beautifully encapsulated their journey: “Blessed the man who finds refuge in you, in their hearts are pilgrim roads … They will go from strength to strength and see the God of gods on Zion” (Ps 84:6-8). Truly, these pilgrims embodied this blessedness, experiencing firsthand how every step taken in faith strengthens the soul, renews hope and draws each individual closer to God.
This pilgrimage served not only as a personal spiritual renewal for the pilgrims, but also as a powerful witness to hope, revitalizing faith within the heart of the Church.
Fr. Christopher Hai Tran is pastor at Saint Wenceslaus Catholic Church in Prague and rector of the National Shrine of the Infant Jesus of Prague.