Over the past few weeks, I had the privilege of visiting Assisi - a place that feels like a sacred embrace. The serene hilltop town in Italy holds deep spiritual significance for so many. Nestled in the Umbrian countryside, Assisi is not only breathtakingly beautiful—with its cobbled streets, olive groves, and sweeping views—but also profoundly moving.

One of the most special moments of the trip was walking in the footsteps of St. Clare. To stand where she stood, pray where she prayed, and reflect on her life of devotion and simplicity was incredibly humbling. Visiting the Basilica of St. Clare was a highlight—its quiet grandeur and sacred atmosphere invite deep contemplation. Seeing her preserved body was both surreal and deeply reverent, a reminder of the legacy of her faith and courage.

Equally awe-inspiring was the visit to the Basilica of St. Francis, a majestic structure built into the hillside that houses both Upper and Lower Churches adorned with the most beautiful frescoes. Standing before the tomb of St. Francis, you could almost feel his love for creation, his humility, and his unwavering faith.

Another highlight was seeing the tomb of Blessed Carlo Acutis, a modern-day teenager who will be canonized on the 7^th of September. Known for his love of the Eucharist and his tech-savvy evangelism, Carlo’s body is displayed in Assisi’s Sanctuary of the Renunciation, dressed in jeans and sneakers—a powerful reminder that holiness is within reach for all of us.

Assisi has a way of slowing you down. It invites you to listen more closely, breathe more deeply, and reconnect with what matters most. Whether you're drawn by its spiritual history or simply its natural beauty, Assisi leaves a lasting impression.

If you ever have the chance to go—go. It’s a place that speaks to the soul, and I feel so grateful to have experienced it.

Katherine Austin