Theology of the Body Young Adult Pilgrimage
July 11-20, 2026
Last chance! Register before May 25th!
Journey in the Footsteps of Saints!
Walk in the footsteps of St. John Paul II while discovering the places where he prayed, studied, and served—from Wadowice to Kraków to the Tatra Mountains. Throughout the pilgrimage, you will dive deeply into JPII’s Theology of the Body through six dedicated sessions that explore the mystery of the human person and God’s plan for love, marriage, and sexuality. Along the way, encounter the rich spiritual, historical, and cultural treasures of Poland, including the message of Divine Mercy, St. Faustina, St. Maximilian Kolbe, and much more.
Daily Mass & Holy Hour
Fellowship
Adventure
Formation
Who is it For & How Much?
Who: Any young adult (18-35)
When: Arrive in Poland on July 11 and depart July 20.
Cost: $2700, excludes airfare.
Embark on an Adventure of Faith
Wadowice & Kalwaria: Pray where St. John Paul II’s Marian devotion first began, and learn more about the early days of his life in his hometown. Tour his family home and pray in his home parish church.
Old Town Kraków: Tour Old Town Kraków, including the famous Market Square, and encounter Poland’s rich cultural and historical heritage.
Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum: Take part in a private guided tour of the former concentration camp, including a visit to the cell where St. Maximilian Kolbe was martyred.
Divine Mercy Sanctuary & Convent of St. Faustina: Encounter St. Faustina and the message of Divine Mercy—a message deeply connected to St. John Paul II’s heart and teaching.Tatra Mountains: Hike, adventure, and pray in the mountains so beloved by JPII and often visited by him.
…and many more surprises along the way!Meet the Team
Fr. Zach Swantek
Fr. Zack is a native of New Jersey and a priest of the Diocese of Trenton. He has served as the Catholic Chaplain at Princeton University and Director of the Pastoral Program for the Aquinas Institute since 2020. He attended seminary at the Pontifical North American College in Rome, and was ordained a priest in 2014. After some time in a parish, Fr. Zack was sent back to Rome for further studies, completing a Licentiate (S.T.L.) at the John Paul II Institute for Studies on Marriage and Family, and a Doctorate in Sacred Theology (S.T.D.) at the Pontifical University of Saint John Paul II in Krakow. Over the past 10+ years, Fr. Zack has served as a high school and college chaplain, as well as an adjunct professor at Seton Hall University’s Immaculate Conception Seminary School of Theology. In addition to all this, he frequently serves as a chaplain for the JP2 Project, leading seminars and providing formation for numerous retreats and pilgrimages in the US and Poland. Fr. Zack loves hiking, kayaking, soccer, and making pilgrimages.
“Do not be afraid. Do not be satisfied with mediocrity. Put out into the deep and let down your nets for a catch.” - Saint John Paul II
Our Philosophy
From the inception of the JP2 Project, we’ve brought teens, students, young adults, and even families on transformative journeys through Poland and beyond. Far from religious tourism, we offer real pilgrimages, where transformational encounters with the Lord are weaved into a historical, educational and cultural journey in the footsteps of the saints. Sacraments and prayer are central to each pilgrimage, making for a retreat experience that enriches the marvelous discovery of each new site. Whether it is a Theology of the Body pilgrimage or a Poland/Italy adventure, these unique experiences reap immense fruits in a short period of time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What to expect?
Expect an incredible experience! Do not expect luxury. This is not religious tourism. This is a pilgrimage. While we will not be “roughing it”, we will not be staying in five star accommodations. Do expect a profoundly communal experience with a balance of formation, prayer, adventure, and free time. Expect the Lord to surprise you along the way. Expect great things!
What is included in the cost?
What is NOT included in the cost?
What about flights?
You are responsible for your own airfare and arrangements. You will want to book your flight to arrive at the John Paul II International Airport in Krakow Poland (KRK) on July 11th. This will necessitate your departure from the USA on July 10th.
You will want to book your flight to depart John Paul II International Airport (KRK) on July 20th
Is there free time or is the schedule packed?
Both. To give you the most bang for your buck, we do try to organize a full program, from times of prayer and discussions, to tours of significant places, to times for the meals! Each day really varies, but expect to give to the full. There are days where the schedule is pretty packed and there’s not much down time outside time of quiet prayer or journaling. Other days incorporate more space for exploring and relaxing within the itinerary.
What should I bring?
Following registration, we will share a detailed list and tips for packing.
I have more questions!
Reach out to us at [email protected] with any other questions that you may have!
Support Our Efforts
Want to support the JP2 Project? Become a donor and include us in your tithing! We’re currently running a campaign for our scholarship fund for our fellowship students.
