What lies beneath the world's largest church? Venture with us into the underground excavations known as the Scavi, where family tombs, ancient graffiti and the bones of a first-century man converge into one of Christianity's most remarkable archaeological discoveries.

Father Tom Szydlik, a former Scavi tour guide and priest of the Diocese of Peoria, takes us on a captivating journey through the hidden necropolis beneath St. Peter's Basilica. The story unfolds like a historical thriller—complete with secret excavations during World War II, disappointing false leads, and an unexpected discovery that would confirm what Christians had believed for two millennia.

We trace the extraordinary lengths Emperor Constantine went to when building the first St. Peter's Basilica directly over Peter's tomb, literally moving a mountain to honor the first pope. Father Szydlik explains how Peter's martyrdom in Nero's Circus, his humble burial, and the continuous veneration of his grave created the foundation for Vatican City as we know it today.

The archaeological detective story reaches its climax with the discovery of bones belonging to a robust man in his 60s, wrapped in imperial purple cloth, missing only his feet—consistent with someone who had been crucified upside down. This tangible connection to the fisherman who became the rock on which Christ built his Church offers a powerful message of hope and divine providence.

Whether you're planning a pilgrimage to Rome or simply fascinated by the intersection of faith and archaeology, this episode reveals why these underground excavations represent not just historical curiosity but a profound spiritual connection to the earliest days of Christianity. Join us as we explore how God brings victory even from the most unlikely circumstances.

(While we recorded this episode prior to the Holy Father's death, the conversation remains relevant - especially our last reflection on Jubilee events without a Holy Father, so listen until the end!)

The Holy Doors are open, and pilgrims from around the world are discovering the transformative power of Rome's Jubilee Year. In this revealing conversation, Joan and Jenna share their firsthand impressions after multiple visits to the Eternal City during the early months of this extraordinary Holy Year.

Beginning with the intentionality of the pilgrimage path at St. Peter's, listeners will discover how to make crossing through a Holy Door a truly meaningful spiritual experience rather than just a tourist checkbox. Rome itself has undergone remarkable changes in preparation for this historic event. The creation of pedestrian-friendly zones like Piazza Pia, restoration work in major basilicas, and infrastructure improvements throughout the city haven't just made Rome more navigable—they symbolize the spiritual renovation the Jubilee invites in our own lives. What barriers need to be removed in your spiritual life? What paths need to be cleared to better welcome Christ?

Beyond practical advice, this episode explores the deeper meaning of being "Pilgrims of Hope" in a world hungry for authentic spiritual experiences. The special Jubilee events honoring different groups within the Church—from deacons to musicians—reveal how this Holy Year celebrates the diversity and unity of the universal Church. Even if summer crowds seem daunting, learn to view them as a visible sign of the Church's vibrant universality rather than an inconvenience.

Whether you're planning a pilgrimage to Rome or seeking to live the Jubilee spirit from home, this conversation offers practical wisdom, spiritual insights, and a contagious enthusiasm for this sacred time in the life of the Church. The invitation is clear: embrace hope, seek transformation, and discover how crossing thresholds—both physical and spiritual—can lead to profound renewal.

Christine Wohar takes us deep into the life of Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati as we anticipate his long-awaited canonization this summer during the Jubilee Year of Hope. As Executive Director of Frassati USA, Christine shares the fascinating story of how this young Italian man who died at just 24 years old continues to captivate Catholics worldwide with his remarkable ordinariness.

Born into a prominent family, Pier Giorgio's upbringing wasn't overtly religious. Yet despite living through World War I, the Spanish flu pandemic, and the rise of fascism under Mussolini, he developed extraordinary devotion to the Eucharist and service to the poor that ultimately led thousands to flood the streets at his funeral in 1925.

What makes Frassati particularly compelling is his relatability. He wasn't academically exceptional, faced family conflicts, and experienced relationship disappointments – yet chose holiness daily through faithful Mass attendance, acts of charity, and joyful friendship. His canonization miracle, involving the healing of a torn Achilles tendon, perfectly reflects this same accessibility – a reminder that God and his saints care about our everyday struggles, not just life-and-death situations.

Christine also shares personal stories of meeting Frassati's family, including his sister who lived to 105 years old, and reveals delightful behind-the-scenes details like the amusing story behind his beatification banner at St. Peter's. As we prepare to celebrate Saint Pier Giorgio Frassati, discover why he's precisely the saint we need today – showing us that holiness begins with Monday mornings and ordinary moments, offering hope that amid our own everyday struggles, we too can become saints.

Join us for Pier Giorgio Frassati's canonization celebration this summer! Whether you want to take a group or you're just an individual looking for a trip, Verso Ministries can make that dream a reality. Visit versoministries.com/Jubilee for all our Jubilee dates and for more information.

For more on Pier Giorgio, check out:

A Man of the Beatitudes by Luciana Frassati

Finding Frassati: And Following His Path to Holiness by Christine Wohar