Lenten pilgrimage a worthwhile trip
by David Ziser
This past weekend’s Lenten Pilgrimage turned out to be a wonderful success. Those of us who braved the chilly morning were rewarded with a meaningful and memorable journey across Covington. We gathered at 10 am in Mother of God’s parking lot, maps in hand, and began our walk toward the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption on 12th Street. The cathedral’s beauty and grandeur immediately set the tone, and we spent time admiring the sanctuary and the impressive collection of relics behind the altar—73 in total.
From there, we continued to St. Benedict on 17th Street, where we were warmly greeted by a cheerful group that welcomed us to “the most beautiful church in Covington.” It made us smile, because every parishioner feels that way about their parish home. The hospitality and charm there were unforgettable.
Next, across Madison, came St. Augustine at 19th & Euclid, another stunning church filled with friendly parishioners who welcomed us as we arrived.
Our longest stretch followed, leading us down to St. John the Evangelist on West Pike Street. The climb to the balcony—supposedly just 37 steps—felt longer, but the breathtaking view and magnificent organ made the effort worthwhile.
We completed the journey back at Mother of God, having walked about five miles and logged nearly 14,000 steps. While not quite the Camino de Santiago, it was still a rewarding pilgrimage we hope to repeat next year.
From there, we continued to St. Benedict on 17th Street, where we were warmly greeted by a cheerful group that welcomed us to “the most beautiful church in Covington.” It made us smile, because every parishioner feels that way about their parish home. The hospitality and charm there were unforgettable.
Next, across Madison, came St. Augustine at 19th & Euclid, another stunning church filled with friendly parishioners who welcomed us as we arrived.
Our longest stretch followed, leading us down to St. John the Evangelist on West Pike Street. The climb to the balcony—supposedly just 37 steps—felt longer, but the breathtaking view and magnificent organ made the effort worthwhile.
We completed the journey back at Mother of God, having walked about five miles and logged nearly 14,000 steps. While not quite the Camino de Santiago, it was still a rewarding pilgrimage we hope to repeat next year.
East- and west-facing views of the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption; A case filled with relics of the saints.
The front entrance to St. Benedict Church.
Visitors worship the Blessed Sacrament on the altar at St. Benedict Church.
St. Augustine Church.
The interior of St. Augustine features beautiful decorations on the ceiling and arches.
St. John the Evangelist Church on West Pike Street.
A view of the barrel-arched ceiling inside St. John the Evangelist.
The organ pipes in the choir loft at St. John the Evangelist are an impressive sight.
Beautiful stained glass windows bring lots of light into the sanctuary.
Mother of God pilgrims (clockwise, starting in the back row): David and LaDawn Ziser; Mike and Gail Jacks; Kathy Wedig-Stevie and Bob Stevie.
Mother of God Church, aka home, sweet home.
So many works of art to ponder at Mother of God.