Companions of Christ 2026 Annual Conference

ITINERARY

Day 1: Monday, July 27 - Departure

Depart on international overnight flights to Geneva, Switzerland.

Day 2: Tuesday, July 28 - Arrive in Geneva | Lyon

Upon arrival, meet the local tour manager and transfer by bus to Thorens. Celebrate Mass at the Parish of St. Maurice and St. Francis de Sales in Thorens-Glières, where St. Francis de Sales was baptized and later ordained a bishop. A local priest will provide a tour of this sacred site. Spend time in quiet reflection before continuing to Annecy for hotel check-in and a welcome dinner. Overnight in Annecy.

Day 3: Wednesday, July 29 - Annecy | Conference Day 1

Begin the day with Holy Hour before gathering for thefirst conference session. Celebrate Mass at the Basilica of the Visitation, a site rich in the history of St. Francis de Sales and St. Jane de Chantal. A guided walking tour of Annecy follows, offering insight into their lives and ministries. Conclude the day with a group dinner and overnight stay in Annecy.

Day 4: Thursday, July 30 - Annecy | Conference Day 2

Start the day in prayer with a Holy Hour before celebrating Mass at the Cathedral of Saint-Pierre, where St. Francis once preached. The second conference session follows, with the afternoon open for personal exploration of Annecy. Gather in the evening for a group dinner and overnight in Annecy.

Day 5: Friday, July 31 - Annecy | Conference Day 3

Participate in Holy Hour before celebrating Mass at Notre Dame de Liesse. The final conference session takes place before another opportunity for personal exploration of Annecy’s spiritual and historical treasures. Enjoy a group dinner in the evening before retiring for the night in Annecy.

Day 6: Saturday, August 1 - Annecy | Day at Leisure

Start the day by celebrating Mass. The rest of the day is open for hiking, biking, or peaceful contemplation amid Annecy’s breathtaking natural scenery.

Day 7: Sunday, August 2 - Lyon | Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière

Depart Annecy and travel to Lyon, a city steeped in Christian history. Celebrate Mass at the magnificent Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière, a revered Marian shrine overlooking the city. After Mass, enjoy a group lunch and the remainder of the day for prayer, rest, and restoration.

Day 8: Monday, August 3 - Day Trip to Paray-le-Monial | Chapel of the Apparitions

Travel to Paray-le-Monial for a guided walking tour, exploring the Chapel of Saint Claude and the Basilica du Sacré-Coeur. Participate in Holy Hour before celebrating Mass at the Chapel of the Apparitions. Spend the afternoon at leisure or embark on an eight-mile hike along the canal to Our Lady of Providence Church, featuring a stunning façade and rose window. Return to Lyon for an overnight stay.

Day 9: Tuesday, August 4 - Feast of Saint John Vianney | Day Trip to Ars-sur-Formans

Journey to Ars-sur-Formans to celebrate Mass at the Basilica of Saint John Vianney, where a private area will be available for the renewal of promises. A guided tour of the holy sites follows, reflecting on the life of Saint John Vianney. Continue to Châtillon-sur-Chalaronne to visit the parish where Saint Vincent de Paul founded the first Confraternity of Charity. Return to Lyon for a farewell dinner and overnight stay.

Day 10: Wednesday, August 5 - Return Home

Check out and transfer to the Geneva airport for return flights home.

Itinerary is tentative and subject to change