The Love family, a devout Catholic household of 10, embarked on a significant journey to Lisbon, Portugal, for the much-awaited World Youth Day (WYD) 2023.

After a long flight across the ocean, Alexis and John Love, along with their eight children, Anthony, Rosemary, Thomas, Cecilia, Catherine, Gloria, Josie, and Edmund, and John's mother, Sarah Kirk, arrived in Lisbon on July 29. The trip was planned for 12 days, encompassing both Portugal and Spain.

Catholic News Agency spoke with the Love family just before they set off on this special pilgrimage. Now, days into their adventure, the family was caught up with again to hear about their experiences so far. Their journey to attend World Youth Day promises to be a profound and spiritually enriching experience for this devout and tightly-knit family.

The Love family's trip to Lisbon has been filled with meaningful exploration and spiritual encounters. They visited historical landmarks like Fátima, where the significance of Mary's appearance resonated with their humble and simple-hearted beliefs. Cultural experiences included tours of iconic sites like the Elevador Santa Justa and St. Anthony's birthplace, along with discovering the world's oldest bookstore.

As active participants in World Youth Day, they engaged wholeheartedly in events like the welcome Mass and the vocational fair, culminating in witnessing the grand welcome ceremony for Pope Francis. Their commitment to their faith was evident as they visited Reconciliation Park for confession.

A special highlight for Catherine and Cecilia was visiting the homes of the shepherd children of Fátima, deepening their connection to the historical context of the site.

Throughout their journey, the Love family created lasting memories and strengthened their bond as a devout Catholic family, cherishing each experience that resonated with their faith and values.

The Love family's visit to Fátima was deeply meaningful, as they had a touching encounter with a man selling rosaries, who happened to be the nephew of Jacinta and Francisco. The authenticity of the site, with its genuine people and heartfelt connections, moved Alexis, emphasizing that Fátima's holiness is real and goes beyond a beautiful story.

Throughout their time in Portugal, the Love family has been warmly embraced by the Portuguese people, who appreciate their choice to have a large family. Their journey has been filled with touching moments and heartwarming connections, making their pilgrimage to World Youth Day even more meaningful and memorable.

During their time in Portugal, the Love family has been thoroughly enjoying their experiences. Nine-year-old Gloria has delighted in discovering new things, savoring ice cream, and immersing herself in the world of "Alice in Wonderland" from the oldest bookstore.

Catherine found unexpected joy in admiring the unique cobblestone designs. World Youth Day events have captivated the family, and they have embraced the lively and jubilant atmosphere wholeheartedly.

Despite the occasional chaos, Alexis highlighted the positive moments that arise in a large family, and Rosie cherished the opportunity to connect with people from around the world and exchange signatures, creating meaningful memories during their pilgrimage.

As the day continued, the young pilgrims concluded their morning activities and proceeded to enjoy their lunch break. Many groups leisurely walked through Edward VII Park, the same location where the opening mass of World Youth Day had taken place the previous night.

Throughout the park, the atmosphere was filled with music and dance as final rehearsals were underway, setting the stage for a grand event on Thursday afternoon when all the pilgrims would once again gather, this time in the presence of the Holy Father.

The welcome ceremony held great significance as it marked the first time that all the pilgrims would be together with the Holy Father, making it one of the most exciting moments of World Youth Day. However, it was bittersweet to know that the Vigil, which would be the final event of the five-day gathering, was approaching.

As Pope Francis arrived, the challenges of enduring the hot and crowded environment were quickly forgotten, and an atmosphere of joy and excitement swept through the crowd.

People cheered, hugged, and exchanged high-fives, experiencing a rare sense of unity seldom found in the world, except during events related to celebrities, concerts, or sports.

Witnessing this genuine camaraderie over their Holy Father was heartwarming and uplifting.
In the days ahead, the Love family's journey will continue. After spending 12 days in Europe, they will soon return to Maryland to prepare for sending their eldest son off to college.

As World Youth Day concludes on Sunday, they will embark on a pilgrimage to Spain, where they plan to visit some sacred sites and continue their family's spiritual journey.