Recognizing that we are body-soul composites, the tradition of pilgrimages in the Catholic Church gives us a physical way of living out what we hope to have happen in our spiritual lives.  As we travel towards God physically, seeking Him through our travel and even our disappointments along the way, we ask God to do interiorly, through grace, this same work of detachment from our own ego and the acceptance of growth and movement towards His will and His plan for our life.

The Church professes to be one, holy, catholic, and apostolic. These aren't empty words. They are a living reality and in Rome you can point your finger and say, "Look! There's the pope. Look! There is yet another burial place of a saint who heroically responded to the needs of her time. Look! This isn't just for a select few. Look! There are the bones of the apostles St. Peter and St. Paul who gave their lives bearing witness to Jesus." Come and see!

Part of the gift of staying at Villaggio Betania in Bracciano is the atmosphere of prayer, the beauty of nature, the lovely accommodations, and the joy of the Sisters' community life. We enjoy two study days here. These days are designed to give you time for conversation, prayer, reflection, sleep, fun, and friendship. On these days we spend time together learning about what we experience in Rome and what the Catholic Church can teach us today. These days are meant to be both reflective and interactive. You also have the option of enjoying the gardens, the lake, and the nearby castle.