---
title: June 19, 2025: We Made It!
description: Pilgrims are at the airport ready for takeoff.
image: https://rome.umary.edu/hubfs/IMG_0127-1.jpg
---

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Day one of the pilgrimage has not disappointed! All the groups have had relatively smooth travel days. However, the final group ended up leaving Bismarck 30 minutes late. This means that we saw our 55-minute layover quickly dwindle to a 25-minute layover. However, there is strength in numbers, and with some coordination with other groups, we were able to get the flight attendants to hold the plane and allow us to all board. Not only have all our students arrived safe and sound in Rome, somehow, by the grace of God, every one of our 158 bags made it to Rome. Grazie Dio! Now we finish our day with Mass, and a big communal meal before we venture into the city tomorrow.

Thank you for your prayers! 

![IMG_0127-1](https://rome.umary.edu/hs-fs/hubfs/IMG_0127-1.jpg?width=720&height=360&name=IMG_0127-1.jpg)

 

 

 

 

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