National Shrine Pilgrimage
Frequently Asked Questions
Where will the buses pick up the pilgrims on Friday, April 1?
The Diocese has arranged for buses on Friday ONLY. The sites are yet to be determined. It will depend on the number of pilgrims registered and where they are located. We will have a better idea after the registration deadline February 21.
What time will the pilgrims arrive in DC on Friday?
Buses are scheduled to arrive at the hotel around 3:30 p.m.
At what hotel are we staying?
Hyatt Regency Crystal City at Reagan National Airport
Arlington, VA 22202
Phone: 703-418-1234
Web site: http://crystalcity.hyatt.com/hyatt/hotels/.
Will there be buses leaving from the Diocese on Saturday to go to the Basilica for just the day?
Parishes are responsible for arranging their own transportation for a one-day trip. Buses can be arranged through Mary’s Tours, Greenville, NC (252) 758.3188. If a parish cannot fill a bus, they are encouraged to talk with other parishes in their area to combine efforts.
Will the promoter have to register people from their parish?
Promoters will need to oversee registration for possible Saturday bus transportation. Promoters are also asked to assist Youth Ministers with Youth Group Registrations if needed.
Who are the “Group” Registration forms used for?
Youth Groups (Minors under 18) and the adult chaperones that travel with them. All others register by using the Individual/Family Form.
Who keeps track of people registering for the Friday overnight trip?
Diocesan Registrar
Andrea Stone
Phone: 919-821-8156
Email: Andrea.Stone@raldioc.org.
After the registration deadline, we will supply the parish promoter with a list of the pilgrims registered from their parish.
How are roommates assigned?
Roommates will be assigned based solely upon request on the registration form, i.e. “My college friends and I would like to room together; how do we ensure that?” Answer: Use the Individual Registration form and register separately; all persons will be assigned to a room based on their registration form and the names of their roommate(s) listed under the “Roommate” section.
What if someone needs a roommate to help offset the cost of the trip?
Having a roommate can significantly reduce the expense of the trip. If a person would like a roommate assigned with them, they need to indicate such on the registration form. We will have a list of others looking for roommates as well and we will contact them.
Will pilgrims receive a confirmation letter upon registering?
Confirmation letters will be distributed after the deadline (Feb 21). The letter will include transportation arrangements, bus schedule/logistics and other pertinent information about the trip.
Will Mass at 3 p.m. fulfill the obligation for Sunday?
Pilgrims will need to participate at Mass on Sunday.
What other expenses should we expect?
Lunch at the Basilica on Saturday and dinner on the trip home Saturday is at your own expense.
Cancellation Policy
Cancel through 3/1/11 - receive a full refund. Cancel through 3/15/11 - receive half refund. No refunds will be given after 3/15/11. Substitutions will be accepted.
Will there be any side trips to go sightseeing during the trip?
Time does not allow any side trips during this pilgrimage.
Is there a reduced rate for children?
There is no reduced rate for children.
Is there a charge for infants?
There will be no charge for infants unless they occupy a seat on the bus.
Are car seats required for the bus seat?
Car seats are not required on the bus.
Can pilgrims make their own transportation arrangements but still stay at the hotel and be part of the pilgrimage festivities?
Yes. Please be sure to make a note of such on the registration form. We will make the $55 per person adjustment to the registration fee; however, we do encourage everyone to travel with us by bus.