Info & Apply

Apply through FOCUS Missions here.

More USI-specific info will be posted here as it becomes available.

For more information, contact Anna or any FOCUS Missionary.

FAQs

• Do you have departure and return times?

  These will be announced closer to the trip, but we plan to leave Friday evening, March 6, and return by Sunday, March 15.

• Where are we going, and why?

  This trip explores the French roots of our Evansville community. The Diocese of Evansville has its roots in the "Diocese of Vincennes," which was established in 1834. Servant of God Bishop Simon Bruté, our first bishop, was French.

  Our trip to Lourdes explores a Marian apparition to St. Bernadette, where Mary is honored as "The Immaculate Conception" - Mary, the Immaculate Conception, is the patroness of the United States.

  Our tip to Lisieux explores the life of the Martin family, in particular, St. Therese of Lisieux, "the Little Flower."

• How much does this pilgrimage cost?

  The amount will decrease depending on the number of people who sign up. We are estimating $2700 - $3300.

• What do you mean by "rolling applications?"

  There are only 16 slots available for this pilgrimage. When the trip is full, it’s full.

  If you wait until the deadline of Nov. 30, the trip may already be at capacity. So applying sooner is better than later.

• Why is there an interview? Do I need to prepare for that?

  This is an opportunity for our trip director to explain what our pilgrimage is all about, and for you to ask questions about the trip. More info here.

• Why a "pilgrimage" and not a vacation?

  A pilgrimage's purpose is to journey closer to God. Humans are incarnational beings, and the process of physically journeying somewhere is an invitation to a deeper spiritual reality of transformation. More here.

• How do I explain this to my parents?

  FOCUS put together a great set of talking points here: https://focus.org/missions/trip-participant-page/talking-to-a-parent-guide/

  If your parent has any specific questions or concerns, you can also have them reach out directly to Anna or one of the missionaries.

• What does fundraising look like?

  Fundraising will be done in person, with the help of the missionaries. Here is a general overview if you'd like a sneak peek: https://focus.org/missions/trip-participant-page/fundraising-guide/

• If I'm going to both SEEK and France, do I need to fundraise twice?

  Nope- we will help you write one letter that includes both initiatives.

• Where are we going next year?

  We alternate between domestic and international trips. 2026 will be a domestic trip and 2027 will be another international trip.

• Why FOCUS Missions?

  FOCUS Missions has lots of experience with international travel and has an established trip packet, resources, connections. It’s a great partner organization.

  On alternate years, our travel trips are through a variety of other organizations.

• Can I bring a friend who doesn't attend USI?

  If there are extra slots available after Nov. 30, yes!

  If you know someone who would like to be added to a wait list for this option, contact Anna or one of the missionaries.

• What should I pack?

  We will provide a complete packing list to all who are attending. This will be a "travel light" trip.

• How do I get a passport?

  Here’s how. (Do this before Christmas so it has time to process!)

Postcards

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