ST. BENEDICT TOURS: June 14-25, 2019
KRAKOW, POLAND
KRAKOW, POLAND
Overview
Fr. Mariusz Koch, CFR, Spiritual Director
St. Benedict Tours is blessed to have as our spiritual director, Fr. Mariusz Eugene Koch, CFR, for our Pilgrimage/retreat to Krakow, Poland, June 14 – June 25, 2019.
A gifted spiritual director, Fr. Mariusz was ordained in 1969 as a priest for the Archdiocese of Newark, NJ. In 1975, he received his M.Div. degree from Immaculate Conception Seminary School of Theology, and in 1985, his M.A. in Spiritual Theology from the Pontifical University of St. Thomas (The Angelicum) Rome.
In 2008, Fr. Mariusz received the Papal Honor Benemerenti from Pope Benedict, XVI. With 50 years of priestly._service in various pastoral assignments, Fr. Mariusz began, in July, 2018, his service as Associate Spiritual Director and Formation Faculty member at Immaculate Conception Seminary School of Theology.
Fr. Mariusz will be offering daily Mass, spiritual conferences, and will be most attentive to the spiritual needs of our pilgrims. It is a blessing. for St. Benedict Tours to have Fr. Mariusz as our spiritual director.
KRAKOW, POLAND
About Krakow
Krakow, once the former capital of Poland , is now referred to as ” the city of churches.” The abundance of landmark, historic, Roman Catholic Churches along with the plenitude of monasteries and convents has earned Krakow a countrywide reputation as the “Northern Rome.” Krakow, Poland’s second largest city in Poland, sits on the banks of the Vistula River and is one of Poland’s well known center for art and culture. A city, known for its charm and cobbled streets, the squares are surrounded by pretty buildings and a mixture of Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque churches.
Right in the heart of the old town of Krakow is the main square, Rynek Glowny. This is Europe’s largest market square and on a sunny day, it is filled with flower stalls, bagel-sellers, and charming cafes where one may sit and enjoy local food. Located in Rynek Glowny is the famous St. Mary’s Basilica. Built in the 14th century, St Mary’s foundation dates back to early 13th century and serves as one of the best examples of Polish Gothic architecture.
Wawel Castle, built in the 13th century, is located in the Wawel Hill section of Poland. Wawel Castle is one of Europe’s largest royal castles. It is a huge complex, including five different museum sections, gardens, and the cathedral where Pope John Paul II served as archbishop.
The friendly Polish people, the delicious local food and Krakow’s dramatic history, will make your visit to Krakow a life long memorable experience.