2015 JOAN OF ARC PILGRIMAGE

[Chris Snidow]

 

Greetings, here's the info for the 2015 pilgrimage, also available at our website: (www.pilgrimwitnesses.com ) For some more pilgrimage photos, go to: https://www.facebook.com/Pilgrimwitnesses/photos_stream  Updated testimonials/feedback, contact info, and the info below, is all attached. Merci.
Chris & Catherine

Joan of Arc, ‘God’s Messenger’

-French Pilgrimage-Stay in Monasteries-

June 18-28, 2015

Domrémy-la-Pucelle, Vaucouleurs, Chartres, Orléans, Reims, Rouen, Monastère Sainte Claire, Maxey-sur-Meuse, la Chapelle de Beauregard, Bermont, Vouthon-Bas, St Jean Le Blanc, Fort des Tourelles site, Jargeau, le Pont Boieldieu, Bonsecours, Saint-Jacques-sur-Darnétal, Beauffremont

“I bring you news from God, that our Lord will give you

back your kingdom, bringing you to be crowned at Reims,

and driving out your enemies. In this I am God’s messenger.

Do set me bravely to work, and I will raise the siege of Orleans.”

Joan of Arc, first meeting with the King Charles VII

In June 2015, God willing, we will once again lead a pilgrimage to France, with the spirituality and footsteps of Joan of Arc foremost in our plans. This will be our ninth opportunity for taking a group on this fascinating journey. We have made several additions and improvements for 2015, yet our travel philosophy remains the same. One of going back to the essentials, of simplicity, of quality time in some places instead of 'rush-rush' in many. Although we will indeed see much, we want to experience the places we visit more as spiritual travelers than as consumers.

Among the additions for this year’s pilgrimage are some Joan of Arc sites seldom visited by Joan admirers: Jargeau, la Chapelle de Beauregard, Vouthon-Bas, le Pont Boieldieu, Basilique Notre-Dame de Bonsecours (Rouen), the site of Le Fort des Tourelles (Orléans), and a new monastery: Monastère Sainte Claire.

Our goal for our new sites will be as with the others; to first see them through the eyes of believers and/or seekers, and then from such perspectives as historical, architectural, sociological, as tourists, etc. Consequently, we will again purposely remain a small group. Too many people would impact this basic philosophy we wish to follow.

 

Before going to the itinerary, let’s take a quick glance at Joan of Arc. Did you know …

 

- She is the most attested person in history up to the 16th century. As Sir Arthur Conan Doyle (author of Sherlock Holmes) states, “…next to the Christ, the highest spiritual being of whom we have any exact record upon this earth is the girl Jeanne.”

- At 17 years old, she remains the youngest supreme military commander in history, male or female. Louis Kossuth says: “Consider this unique and imposing distinction. Since the writing of human history began, Joan of Arc is the only person, of either sex, who has ever held supreme command of the military forces of a nation at the age of seventeen.” Mr. Kossuth (1802-1894) was Regent-President of Hungary in 1849. He was widely honored during his lifetime, including in the United Kingdom and the United States, as a freedom fighter and bellwether of democracy in Europe.

- Those who knew her from childhood frequently described her as “…simple and good, frequenting the Church and Holy places.” And they left us many specific examples of her life while growing up in Domremy. For example: “Often, when she was in the fields and heard the bells ring, she would drop to her knees.” Dominique Jean Waterin, laborer of Greux, Trial of Nullification, 1456

- Even at the stake, she was heard asking for the forgiveness of those who were executing her (reminiscent of Jesus), as well as for her own sins: “She also most humbly begged all manner of people, of whatever condition or rank they might be, and whether of her party or not, for their pardon and asked them kindly to pray for her, at the same time pardoning them for any harm they had done her. This she continued to do for a very long time, perhaps for half an hour and until the end. The judges who were present, and even several of the English, were moved by this to great tears and weeping, and indeed several of these same English, recognized God's hand and made professions of faith when they saw her make so remarkable an end.” Jean Massieu, Trial of Nullification, 1456

- Her very specific and consistently fulfilled prophecies were famous even in her own time. “I told them things that have happened, and things that shall happen yet.” Joan of Arc, Trial of Condemnation, March 3, 1431 Mark Twain said, “… There have been many uninspired prophets, but she was the only one who ever ventured the daring detail of naming, along with a foretold event, the event’s precise nature, the special time-limit within which it would occur, and the place―and scored fulfillment.” Mark Twain, Joan of Arc-An Essay, 1896 Jeane Dixon was one of the best-known American astrologers and psychics of the 20th century. However her 50% success rate of fulfilled prophecy pales when compared with Joan’s 100%.

- She has many parallels and similarities with the saints/prophets of the Bible.

- The church burned her at the stake as a witch on May 30, 1431. Then, officially recognizing their mistake nearly 500 years later, she was canonized a saint on May16, 1920. She is now France's Patron saint and her legacy to both France and the world run deep.

 

How did this seventeen-year-old illiterate French peasant girl save France from English domination? After all, as you might imagine, woman’s rights were not exactly in the forefront during the 15^th century. For Joan, the answer was always simple: God. Listen to her words to the King the first time they met, “Gentle dauphin, I am Joan the maid, and the King of Heaven commands that through me you be anointed and crowned in the city of Reims as a lieutenant of the King of Heaven, who is King of France ….’”

During her Trial of Condemnation, she testified that He frequently sent His messengers to guide her, and only through Him was she able to do all she did. Could this be true? After examining all the records available, we believe the best and most logical explanation behind Joan of Arc’s amazing feats and life is indeed found in the God of the Bible working through her. And so this pilgrimage…

 

Itinerary

 

Each day we will gather for some combination of the following: prayers/meditation, info on activities of the day, addressing questions, Question du Jour discussions... This time shared together has been one of the highlights for many who have come with us. Having said that…

 

June 18-19, 2015, Rouen: We will all meet at Charles de Gaulle airport in Paris on Thursday, June 18, 2015, at a specific rendezvous place to be named later, between 11:00am-1:00pm. This has worked very well for past pilgrimages. This way, those just arriving from the states will not have to go into Paris in order to link up with the pilgrimage. Also, as some people have expressed a desire to be able to use their frequent flyer miles, and/or to be able to be more flexible before or after the pilgrimage, we've found that it is better that everyone make their own flight arrangements. Consequently the price has been reduced accordingly to take this aspect into consideration.

On this pilgrimage we will use a ‘flashback’ approach with our travels. We begin at the end: Rouen where Joan was burned at the stake. And then we’ll work our way backwards in time. We used this approach once before, and were pleased with the results. Consequently, upon departure from the airport, we will immediately go to Joan’s final earthy resting place: Rouen.

Upon our arrival to Rouen, we will visit la Basilique de Notre-Dame de Bonsecours, which has been appropriately enough a pilgrimage site for centuries. It has the largest commemorative monument to Joan of Arc in France. This impressive monument sits on a granite terrace overlooking the Seine valley, providing an unparalleled view of the city, and provides an excellent way to begin the pilgrimage. The church too is exceptionally beautiful, both inside and out. After seeing this site for the first time during our last pilgrimage, we decided that it was a ‘must’ for future ones.

After this, we will head to our resting place for two evenings: "La Compassion" Centre Mambre. This monastery, run by the Sisters of Compassion, is lovely. Located up in the hills, outside of the city of Rouen, it provides a quite atmosphere with the sounds of birds and lambs drifting through the air. It will be a relaxing environment, especially for those who've just arrived from a long flight. You may attend a service of the sisters here if you like. Each service lasts about 20 minutes. By the end of the pilgrimage, you will have experienced four different spiritual communities. They are all very different, but each one is dynamic and joyful in its own way.

We’ll spend most of the next day in Rouen. To steer us along on this part of the pilgrimage, we are fortunate to have one of the best professional guides we’ve seen: Jacqueline Prevost. She is a great admirer of Joan of Arc, a lifelong resident of Rouen, and speaks good English. She will accompany us to Le Donjon, Tour Jeanne d'Arc (where Joan was threatened with torture), l'Eglise Sainte Ouen (where her adjuration took place), la Place du Vieux Marche (where she was burned at the stake), and the Saint Joan of Arc Church (l’Eglise Sainte Jeanne d'Arc) that was built there in her honor. It is fitting that we’ll end this day at le Pont Boieldieu, where after the stake her remains were tossed from this bridge into the Seine River on May 31, 1429.

The head priest of l’Eglise Sainte Jeanne d'Arc, Pere Potel, is a delight, and speaks fluent English, having lived in the states for 2 years. We will have him with us for dinner at the monastery one evening, and he’ll gladly answer any questions you may have.

June 20, 21, & 22, 2015, ‘Base Orléans’, via Chartres. Leaving Rouen we will head towards Orléans, scene of Joan’s famous history-changing battle. But on the way, we'll make one important stop: the famous cathedral of Chartres. Since it lies directly on our way, we cannot in good conscience pass it by. It is certainly one of the most beautiful cathedrals in France, known the world over for its exceptional blue stained glass windows. The majority of these stained glass windows are the originals from the 13th-14th centuries. Joan of Arc’s mother, Isabelle Romée (1377–1458) would have seen these very windows while there. The architecture has seen only minor changes since the early 13th century. All in all, it is in an exceptional state of preservation, is considered one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Since at least the 12th century the cathedral has been an important destination for travelers – and remains so to this day, attracting large numbers of Christian pilgrims, many who come to venerate its famous relic, the Sancta Camisa, said to be the tunic worn by the Virgin Mary at Christ's birth. Large numbers of secular tourists also come to admire the cathedral's architecture and historical merit.

Once in Orléans, we'll check in to our home for the next 3 days, a religious community run by a young group of sisters. This will be a welcome respite from the 'big city' of Orléans. We are very thankful that Les Soeurs Apostoliques de Saint-Jean have agreed to welcome us. We take this as a privilege, as they don't accept everybody.

            You may participate in prayer services with them if you like. There are 6 different services each day, some very short (as short as 15 minutes), and also longer ones (as long as 60). Some are in silence, some are singing the psalms in French (singing not mandatory!). The sisters tell us that "they feel that God is truly blessing them by our presence".

            The accommodations there are simple and provide all the necessary essentials. Most are single rooms, but not all. Each room has a twin bed, a desk, a chair, a sink, and a place to hang your clothes. Bathrooms and showers are located in typical monastery form (different from our private baths in Rouen): at the end of the hall. We won't be surrounded by material luxury, but rather the luxury of things we may have forgotten… simplicity, peaceful surroundings, silence and big restful gardens. While in Orleans we will take some of our meals here, and the food will again be simple, healthy and tasty; home-cooked by the sisters.

            BTW, if you speak some French, your experience in France will of course take on an added dimension. However if you don't, this is not a problem. Most people who have come with us don't speak any French at all. We will be translating for most tours, activities etc. (FYI-Catherine is French, and Chris is American, and both speak French and English fluently).

 

Day-trip destinations while in Orleans include:

 

-the great Cathédrale Sainte-Croix d'Orléans (i.e. Cathedral of the Holy Cross of Orleans). Immediately after the battle of Orleans was over, Joan went here to give thanks to God for His great victory over the English. Pere Girault (the rector, or head priest), and his assistant Dominique, have been very kind in giving us a private tour of the Cathedral, seeing things most never see. They then have served us a wonderful lunch after the mass. We are hopeful they'll be able to do the same this time.

 

-Site of Les Tourelles-the main fortress protecting the English was called Les Tourelles. This is gone now, but we’ll go to the river to see where it once stood. It’s not difficult to imagine what once was from this viewpoint. This is another interesting and appreciative site we’ve added to the pilgrimage recently.

 

-St-Benoit-sur-Loire. This still active Benedictine monastery was founded around 630 AD and St Benedict's remains are still there to this day. Much history has been recorded at St Benoit. Joan of Arc and the French Revolution both passed through here, but their visits could not have been more different. Charles VII, while on the way to Reims for his anointing and coronation, and accompanied by Joan, came peacefully through on June 21-22, 1429. The French Revolutionaries of the 18th century, on the other hand, passed through St Benoit pillaging and destroying. Today a community of approximately 40 monks resides within its walls. They still follow the Rule of St Benedict, and sing Gregorian chants during some of their short services, one of which we plan to attend.

 

-the Château de Sully-sur-Loire is a fairy-tale like castle. Joan spent a couple of months here just prior to being captured. Weather and circumstances permitting, we will have a French picnic lunch on the Loire River, overlooking this beautiful castle. It's truly a site to behold. You’ll also be able to explore the castle on your own.

 

-Jargeau is a small town on the southern bank of the Loire, about ten miles east of Orléans. The Battle of Jargeau took place on June 11-12, 1429. It was Joan’s first offensive battle, and was the first sustained French offensive in a generation. Le Duc d’Alencon, Joan’s friend and a commanding officer said, “Joan breathed the will of God into French troops, ensuring them their victory, saying, ‘Act, and God will act!’ … a stone hit her on the head (it split in two against her helmet as she climbed a scaling ladder), causing her to fall, but driven on by her determination she got up and exhorted her companions forward … the French (then) took Jargeau, and set off in pursuit of the running English.” The English suffered heavy losses.

          D’Alencon also made some other interesting comments about this battle, including this one revealing Joan’s gift of prophecy: “During the assault on the town of Jargeau, Joan said to me at a moment when I stood in a certain spot, that I should withdraw from that spot and that if I did not withdraw, ‘that machine…’ pointing out to me a war machine which was in the town, ‘will kill you’. I withdrew and just a little time thereafter, at that very spot where I had been someone was killed. His name was my Lord de Lude. Realizing all that, a great fear came over me and I was amazed at Joan’s words, and all these events that came about.” 

 

June 23, 24, & 25, 2015, 'Base Domrémy-la-Pucelle': There are some great reasons to spend time in Joan of Arc’s birthplace, Domrémy-la-Pucelle (meaning Domremy the Maid). For one, it is located in a rural and beautiful part of France. This area is a good example of 'la France profonde'. This means 'the deep France', i.e. the lovely pastoral countryside that few tourists ever see, much less experience. Also, Domrémy-la-Pucelle is a wonderful place to search for both Joan’s roots and her spirituality. And as you might imagine, there is a wealth of Joan of Arc experts living in this area. In the past, they have been very generous to us with their time, expertise and warm hospitality. We will take advantage of this again.

We’ll have a guided visit of Joan of Arc's house. We'll also spend some time at the Basilica dedicated to her, the Fairy Tree location (the tree is no longer there, being cut down in the 17th century) and the "Fountain of the Fevers", where Joan stated she often heard her "voices". A small fountain still flows there, and is to this day very calming and pastoral. You’ll also have some time to explore on your own and visit her childhood church St. Remy, where she stated St. Margaret appeared to her. It still serves as the village church to this day.

            We have rented gites here (i.e. fully furnished houses) and des chambres d'hôtes (i.e. a kind of French B&B). Actually, there are only three gites located in Domrémy itself, and we have rented them all. They are on the grounds of a large two-story house that was built by Napoléon III for one of his mistresses in 1860. They are very nice, with lovely large gardens in the back yard. It is a two-minute walk from there to Joan's house. They have fully furnished kitchens, microwaves, TVs, DVD players, washing machines…it will be a place where you can relax and feel at home. In general, gites provide a marked improvement over a hotel.

            A little about French food is in order here. The French are of course known for their excellent food and wine. And for good reason. Charles de Gaulle said, "How can you govern a country with 365 different kinds of cheese?" However…when you eat a "real" French lunch or dinner in a restaurant, you must count on being there 2-3 hours. It's a nice way to relax, eat well and enjoy each other's company. While in Domrémy, we will be spending some of our meal times in such an atmosphere. l'Accueil du Pélerin (i.e. 'The Pilgrim's Welcome') is a restaurant out in the countryside, on a hillside (a beautiful view!), just next to the Basilica erected in honor of Joan, and a stone’s throw to where the Fairy Tree stood. It is run by the Sisters called les Travailleuses Missionaires (the Working Missionaries). They create a joyful atmosphere to go along with their excellent cuisine. Their lovely singing at the end of the meals has been greatly appreciated by all who have come with us.

            However, ATTENTION! (WATCH OUT!) If you have two full meals in a restaurant per day, and a petit dejeuner (breakfast), your day will be reduced by some 4-7 hours just sitting in a restaurant. We feel there are too many other interesting and important things to take advantage of in France besides just the food experience. That's where the traitteur comes in. When there are interesting activities coming up, and time is of the essence, then we will take advantage of a traitteur (kind of a French delicatessen who specializes in daily fresh dishes... often very good!). We've already prepared the menus with these specialists for times such as these, and arranged for them to deliver to us. This way, we believe we will have the best of both worlds: good fresh French food, and the flexibility of eating at home, perhaps a picnic, etc. We'd like to note here that unlike the vast majority of tours, most of the meals (i.e. 82% of all meals) are covered in the price.

            Included in our day trips from Domrémy are: la Chapelle de Notre-Dame de Beauregard, Maxey-sur-Meuse, Vaucouleurs, la Chapelle de Bermont, Vouthon-Bas and Bauffremont. Just a word on each of these destinations:

 

Vaucouleurs-After first convincing the Captain of Vaucouleurs that she was God-sent, Joan was sent from this small town to go see Charles VII, the legitimate king. We will  have a good guide here, one very knowledgeable about Vaucouleurs' Joan of Arc history. Among other things, we'll visit la Porte de France through which Joan left on her way to see the King, and the chapel where Joan was often praying (we even know where she was kneeling).

 

La Chapelle de Bermont-Joan often went to this simple chapel for prayer. It is still located in the woods, close to Domrémy. Bermont provides a lovely, quiet, countryside atmosphere. Mr. Olivier is the President of the Association of Bermont, and will be there to greet us and explain (we'll be translating) the fascinating story of Bermont, and the images they have recently uncovered there. These images have been dated to shortly after the death of Joan and the belief is (for very good reasons, we think) that these are actually drawings of Joan of Arc by those who knew her at that time: the monks of the Chapelle de Bermont.

 

La Chapelle de Beauregard- This literally means ‘the Chapel of the Beautiful View’! Overlooking the Valley of the Meuse River, this site is well deserving of its name. For centuries sitting in the heart of a hillside wooded area, it still remains a harbor of peace today. This Celtic chapel was frequented since the 13^th century. When Geoffroy de Boulemont came back here safe and sound from his 7^th crusade, he decided to build this beautiful small chapel on a plateau on a hill in this idea environment. It has just recently been restored. The residents here still remember that this was a dear place to Joan of Arc, who came here often to pray.

 

Vouthon-Bas-this small village, located in a bucolic setting close to Domremy, is Isabelle Romee’s (Joan’s mother) birthplace, and where she married Joan’s father, Jacques d’Arc. A monument has been dedicated to Isabelle and Joan outside of the village.

Bauffremont-The sumptuous meal at Bauffremont, and wonderful people we have shared it with, have certainly been a highlight for many of our former pilgrims. The ruins of this castle sits on a hillside, overlooking a large beautiful valley, full of history. The Prince and Princess of Bauffremont are indeed a real Prince and Princess. However, even though descendants of royalty, they are both very kind and down to earth. Their family history is amazing. Here are just three examples:

 

1) One of Joan of Arc's godmothers comes from their family.

 

2) Le Château de Sully-sur-Loire, the same one we picnicked at (see Orleans above), was owned by their family for many years. The maternal grandmother of the Prince was the last descendant of the Counts/Lords of Sully, and eventually sold the castle to the town of Sully-sur-Loire.

 

3) The Shroud of Turin was located at their castle during 1412-1413. That means that it was there on the day Joan was born in 1412!

 

June 26-27, 2015-‘Base’Monastère Sainte Claire’-Reims-For our last Joan of Arc stop, we come to the climax of her carrier: the Cathedrale de Reims. This is where she escorted Charles VII for his crowning and anointing. Crowning him would not be enough. Under the French medieval theory of succession, a king had to also be anointed by God before he could truly become King. Finally at Reims, Joan told him, "Noble King, now is accomplished the will of God who desired…that I should bring you to this city of Reims to receive your holy anointing."  France is well known for its many beautiful and inspiring cathedrals, churches and basilicas, but this one is exceptional.  

Our place of rest will be Sainte Claire’s Monastery (Monastère Sainte Claire). This is a new monastery for us. Previously in Reims, we’ve stayed at another wonderful monastery named St. Thierry. But for years we’ve heard such nice things about Monastère Sainte Claire. And for years we’ve wanted to take a closer look. Finally, in 2015, we are happy to be able to do so. Their peaceful gardens and surroundings are located on a small hill, from which the city of Reims unfolds before us.

The monastery is named after St. Francis of Assisi’s good friend, St. Clare. There are 25 sisters living there, between 24 to 90 years old, living from the work of their hands (vestments, communion wafers, crafts…). If you so desire, you can take a bit of their peace home with you in the form of a CD, as the sisters record and sell their lovely chants.

Also, if interested, you may attend some of the Sister's prayer services. And we hope to be meeting with one of the sisters, to share a little about their community, life of prayer, hospitality and work.
 

 June 27-28, 2015, Paris-CDG airport: We’ll spend our last night near Paris, in a hotel next to Charles de Gaulle airport. There we'll have our farewell dinner in a small family restaurant on June 27.

            The next morning after the self-service breakfast (included), the pilgrimage draws ‘officially’ to a close. For those interested, you can take the shuttle to the airport (i.e. Roissy Charles de Gaulle airport) to catch your flight home. Or for those planning a longer stay in France/Europe, it could also drop you off at the train or subway station. Both are also located at CDG airport.

 

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FYI, on all of our previous pilgrimages we have stayed very close to our detailed itineraries. However, please keep in mind that this itinerary is meant to be a guideline, not one carved in stone. Once in France, we reserve the right to make any changes that we may feel at the time would be best for the group, and we encourage people to be flexible in their approach to the pilgrimage.

 

-Your travel hosts, guides, translators, and fellow pilgrims are Chris Snidow and Catherine Henon-Snidow.

 

 1. Catherine Henon-Snidow: Born in the north of France. A social worker in France, she met Chris at Taize, France. She later moved to the USA where they married. She became a Registered Nurse, and is currently teaching Nursing Aide students in Dallas. Speaks French and English fluently, and some German. She loves, among other things, sharing a good meal with friends, gardening, walking, bicycle rides and reading.

 

2. Chris Snidow: Born in W. Virginia. Played drums, guitar, and piano in bands in Texas, California, France, Holland, and Northern Africa. Composer-producer of several critically acclaimed CDs. One of his more recent CDs (Jeanne d'Arc, Prophetie et le Dieu de la Bible, i.e. Joan of Arc, Prophecy and the God of the Bible), comes from the 2007 Sound and Light show performed in the Basilica dedicated to Joan of Arc in Domremy. A DVD slide show (images, text, music and sound) also resulted from this performance. His book entitled: Joan of Arc and the God of the Bible, was released in 2006, then in French in 2009. An updated edition, Joan of Arc and the God of the Bible-Revised and Expanded Edition followed in 2013. In 2014, the most updated version yet was released: The Witch That Wasn’t. He is currently a Registered Nurse. Speaks English and French fluently, and some Dutch.

 

They have led eight previous pilgrimages to France: in 2002, 2004, 2005, 2007, 2009, two in 2012, and 2014. They are active members of Prestonwood Baptist Church in Plano, TX .

 

Please feel free to contact them for any questions you may have:

 

Chris and Catherine Snidow

 cow...@sbcglobal.net

Telephone: 214-327-4579

www.pilgrimwitnesses.com 

 

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FYI, we are glad to announce that for the first time, we have been able to keep the price of the 2015 pilgrimage the same as last year...

 

 

-Joan of Arc, ‘God’s Messenger’-

French Pilgrimage, June 18-28, 2015

 

TERMS AND CONDITIONS: Price: $3,749.00

 

Payment, refunds and cancellation fees: A $350.00 per person deposit is required for registration. Full payment, including single room supplements if applicable, is due postmarked no later than March 1, 2015. If full payment is made later than March 1, 2015, a $200.00 Full-Payment-Late-Free will be added on the trip price. The deposit is non-refundable, except in event of the trip's cancellation.

 

Single accommodations may be available (there are a limited amount available) for a supplemental charge of $514.00, which provides single room accommodations throughout the pilgrimage. A $50.00 per person deposit is required for single room registration. First come first served for all single accommodations.

 

We reserve the right to cancel this trip due to inadequate registration that makes this trip economically unfeasible for us to operate, though we would inform you of this at the latest by April 20, 2015. In such a case, we would refund to you the TOTAL TRIP COST. However, we are not responsible for additional expenses incurred by participants preparing for the trip (e.g. clothing, equipment, medical expenses, etc.). Participants are responsible for unanticipated price increases which result from a significant devaluation of the U. S. dollar, or significant gasoline increases. In an effort to maintain lower costs, credit cards will not be accepted. No refunds can be given once the trip begins, or for any meals, lodging, activities, or any other services not used. Travel insurance is recommended. See below.

 

If you cancel:

 

From March 1, 2015-April 3, 2015 then you forfeit 25% of total cost of the trip price.

From April 4, 2015- April 18, 2015 then you forfeit 50% of total cost of the trip price.

From April 19, 2015-May 8, 2015 then you forfeit 75% of total cost of the trip price.

From May 9, 2015-July 1, 2015 then you forfeit 100% of total cost of the trip price.

We reserve the right to make any schedule or itinerary (and price) changes due to unanticipated circumstances.

 

NOTICE: We accept no responsibility for any loss or injuries of any nature, regardless of their cause.

 

WHAT IS INCLUDED ON THIS TRIP:

 

1) Transportation costs while on this trip in France, with the following exceptions:

     a) Air fare or other transportation expenses to or from Paris, France.

     b) Participants are completely responsible for meeting group at Charles de Gaulle airport on June 18, 2015, between 11-1pm, at the designated place.  

2) All sleeping accommodations (double rooms) at religious communities or monasteries, gites, and chambres d'hotes.

3) Twenty-four out of twenty-nine meals are included (82%).

4) All admission fees for all Jeanne d'Arc related activites.

5) All meetings and/or conferences with various scholars, experts, and/or historians of Jeanne d'Arc and her times throughout the pilgrimage.

 

-This tour requires a blend of adventuresome spirit, physical fitness, walking ability and mental alertness, and a capacity for accepting situations as they exist and not, necessarily, as we would find them in America. We regret that we are unable to accept requests for special diets or itinerary variations. Disabled travelers requiring special attention or treatment while on tour must be reported when reservations are made. A companion who is able to provide the required assistance must accompany any person who is unable to travel independently or who needs any type of assistance.

-Due to limited vehicle storage capacity, each tour member is permitted only two pieces of luggage. The size of the "suitcase" we recommend is: 9" X 22" X 14". The size of the "carry on" bag is: 17" X 10" X 10". This is the size of our own baggage, and allows us to also take them with us on the plane. [NOTE: If you have ever had the airlines lose your luggage, as we have, you will appreciate being able to keep them with you.]

-Chris Snidow and Catherine Henon do not assume any responsibility for loss or damage to baggage or passengers' belongings.

-Chris Snidow and Catherine Henon reserve the right to decline to accept any person as a member of the tour/pilgrimage, or to require any participant to withdraw from the trip at any time who presents a significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others which cannot be eliminated or reduced to an acceptable level by Mr. Snidow and Ms. Henon's reasonable accommodations.

 

 

CONTRACT AGREEMENT

 

Joan of Arc, ‘God’s Messenger’

-French Pilgrimage of June 18-28, 2015-

 

I fully understand all the terms and conditions of this agreement, and I agree and hereby enter into this contract with Chris Snidow and Catherine Henon.

 

Name as stated on passport (print please): ___________________________

 

Mailing address: ____________________City_____________State______

Zip Code________

 

Passport # :__________________Expiration Date:_____________________

 

Country of Issue: __________Date of Birth:_________________________

 

Telephone: (Home)_________________(Work)_______________(Cell)_____________

E-mail address: _____________________________________________________________

 

Accommodations desired:

 

Double: Yes________No________

Sharing a room with (if you know):____________________

 

When available, single room: Yes________No_________

 

In the event of emergency, please contact:

 

Name:______________________Relationship:______________________

Address:______________________City:_________________State:____

 

Day time phone #_____________  Night time phone#________________

 

Cell Phone #_______________  Email address:_____________________

 

  

MAIL TO:

 

Chris Snidow and Catherine Henon

9320 Biscayne Blvd.

Dallas, Texas 75218

 

Today's Date: _____________________

 

Signature: ________________________

 

  

AGREEMENT TO ASSUME ALL RISKS OF TOUR TRAVEL (a/k/a PILGRIMAGE OR RETREAT) STAYING IN FRANCE & TRANSPORTATION, AND TO RELEASE CHRISTIAN C. SNIDOW AND CATHERINE M. HENON FROM ANY AND ALL LIABILITY RELATED THERETO.

 

ASSUMPTION OF RISK

 

I, ________________________, fully understand that participation in a tour group (also known as a PILGRIMAGE or RETREAT) that will be traveling and staying in France for up to 11 days exposes me to certain INHERENT RISKS, including, but not limited to, transportation accidents (such as an accident in a vehicle). I fully understand that these risks include but are not limited to loss or damage to personal property, injury or fatality due to collision with a vehicle, equipment failure, whether or not caused by the negligence of a tour leader, or illness. Nevertheless, I wish to engage in this tour travel in France (a/k/a PILGRIMAGE or RETREAT), and I AM WILLING TO TAKE COMPLETE RESPONSIBILITY FOR MY OWN HEALTH AND SAFETY AND TO ASSUME ALL RISKS OF INJURY, ILLNESS OR DEATH, whether foreseen or unforeseen, that may befall me as a result of my participation in these activities, specifically the Joan of Arc, ‘God’s Messenger’-French Pilgrimage of June 18-28, 2015.

 

 

 

RELEASE AND COVENANT NOT TO SUE

 

Therefore, as consideration for being permitted to participate in this travel tour in France, I hereby agree that I, my assignees, heirs, and legal representatives RELEASE CHRISTIAN C. SNIDOW AND/OR CATHERINE M. HENON, their agents, employees and representatives from any and all liability arising from any and all actions, claims or demands that I, my assignees, heirs or my legal representatives, may hereafter have and that I, my assignees, heirs, and legal representatives will not make a claim or demand against CHRISTIAN C. SNIDOW AND/OR CATHERINE M. HENON, their agents, employees and representatives for PROPERTY DAMAGE, ILLNESS, PERSONAL INJURY, OR DEATH arising from my participation in any tour and/or travel activities, and any activity related thereto, including transportation of any kind while in France, regardless of whether such property damage, illness, personal injury, or death results from THE NEGLIGENCE OF CHRISTIAN C. SNIDOW AND/OR CATHERINE M. HENON (but not their reckless, willful, or fraudulent conduct), and/or from ANY DEFECT IN EQUIPMENT AND/OR VEHICLES USED DURING THIS TOUR.

 

 

 

 

HOLD HARMLESS

 

I agree to INDEMNIFY AND HOLD CHRISTIAN C SNIDOW AND CATHERINE M. HENON HARMLESS with respect to any claim made against them by any other person or any third party that relates to my participation in travel in France and/or any tour related activities that would be covered by the Release and Covenant Not to Sue if made directly by me.

 

This agreement shall be interpreted in accordance with the law of the State of Texas.

 

 I have carefully read this agreement and I fully understand this contents. I understand that this is a release of liability and a legal contract between me, Christian C. Snidow and Catherine M. Henon, and that it affects my legal rights.  I am signing this document of my own free will.

 

Tour in France: Joan of Arc, ‘God’s Messenger’ Pilgrimage for June 18-28, 2015.

Date: _________________

 

Adult Guest Printed Name: ___________________________

 

Adult Guest Signature: ______________________________

 

Address: _____________________________________

 

City: _________________________       State: _________

 

Postal Code: ________Country:_____________________

 

 

 

 Travel Insurance

 

Beginning with the June 2015 pilgrimage, Travel Insurance for medical reasons will be mandatory for all participants. You will be glad to know that up to this point, we have never had a car accident while on pilgrimage. Nor has anyone on pilgrimage with us ever had an injury necessitating a visit to the Emergency Room, or even seeing a doctor. With one exception: myself. I was once clawed by a feral cat, and had to see a doctor to get some antibiotics.

        We have indeed been blessed. And we take this safety record very seriously. We are committed to doing all we can to ensure that this record continues. Having said that, we remain aware of the possibility of something happening that would require the services of a doctor or hospital care for one of our participants. We’ve heard stories of people that while traveling internationally, thought they had adequate health insurance coverage with their credit cards or US Health insurance, only to find out otherwise once overseas. Consequently, this new Travel Insurance policy requirement. We are calling this plan our ‘Better Safe than Sorry’ plan. Medical Travel Insurance would mean that you would be at least partially covered if something did happen while on pilgrimage with us.

 We will need to have some kind of verification from you once you have purchased it. Here is an example of what is out there, and what we ourselves will be using:

 

https://www.sevencorners.com/insurance/liaisoninternational/HW7C6YH

 

This kind of insurance is inexpensive for limited travel such as this. With the company above, for the state of Texas, the price for $50,000 coverage is $28.49 for primary, and $46.75 for a couple. For $100,000 coverage it is $38.17 for primary, and $54.89 for a couple. And so forth, up to $1,000,000 coverage. FYI, you may contact our insurance agent if you like, and she can run quotes for you no matter where you live, and also enroll you as your agent if you so desire. You may contact her directly long distance at: 1-800-880-0414. She has been a great help to us, but whatever works best for you is fine with us. Her name is Eloise Chapman, of The Chapman Group (www.chapmangroup.com).

We are not mandating that you get Travel Insurance for trip cancellation, etc. Although you may want to consider this as well, we are only mandating good international travel health care coverage. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

 

Please sign below that you have read, understood and will comply with this policy.

 

Signature: ______________________________

 

Date: __________________________________

 

 

 

 

 

[Chris Snidow]

Greetings all!
Time is drawing short now...

 Pasted below is the updated info for the June 2015 pilgrimage. It is also available
on our website: www.pilgrimwitnesses.com

For pilgrimage testimonials and contact info for some who have come with us in the past, go to:  http://www.pilgrimwitnesses.com/pilgrim2.htm

Some pilgrimage photos attached. For more, go to:
 https://www.facebook.com/Pilgrimwitnesses/photos_stream 
For any questions, call or email us. Contact info below.

[james gurn]

   article correction: Martyr at stake on May 30, 1431, therefore couldn’t have “her remains thrown off bridge in Seine on May 31, 1429……CHECK last date

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<NEW 2015 Presentation-July 18, 2014.doc><Testimonials for 2014, 2012, 2009, 2007, 2005, 2004, & 2002-and References.rtf><DSC06569.JPG><DSCN2608.jpg><1DSCF0390.JPG><DSCF0318.JPG><DSCF0288.JPG><DSCF0106b-1.JPG>

[Chris Snidow]

Thanks James. Blessings to you.

Chris

---

From: james gurn <hesed...@epix.net>
To: joan-of-...@googlegroups.com
Sent: Tuesday, January 20, 2015 4:02 PM
Subject: Re: Quickly approaching...2015 JOAN OF ARC PILGRIMAGE (JOA 4)