Mission Events & Learning

Ecclesiology and Spiritual Renewal Program for Health Care Leaders

BROCHURE

We look forward to seeing you at CHA's Ecclesiology and Spiritual Renewal Program for Health Care Leaders, taking place in Rome and Assisi from April 19-24, 2026. This page contains important information as you prepare to travel to Rome. Please contact Lori Ashmore-Ruppel, senior director, mission services management via email or at (314) 253-3419 with any questions you may have.

Program Information

Program content, presenters and times are subject to change. 

Sunday April 19

3:00 p.m. – Welcome and Orientation, for Registered Participants and Registered Guests

4:00 p.m. – Opening Eucharist, for Registered Participants and Registered Guests

5:15 p.m. – Opening Session, for Registered Participants

7:00 p.m. – Reception and Dinner, for Registered Participants and Registered Guests

 

Monday, April 20 

7:00 a.m. – Buffet Breakfast,  for Registered Participants and Registered Guests

8:00 a.m. – Opening Session, for Registered Participants

12:00 p.m. – Lunch,  for Registered Participants and Registered Guests

1:30 p.m. – Guest Speaker Sr. Patricia Murray, IBVM

3:30 p.m. – Enjoy the Afternoon, Dinner and an Evening on Your Own 

 

Tuesday, April 21

6:00 a.m. – Buffet Breakfast,  for Registered Participants and Registered Guests

7:00 a.m. – Board motorcoach to Assisi,  for Registered Participants and Registered Guests

9:30 a.m. – Eucharist at Basilica of Santa Chiara,  for Registered Participants and Registered Guests

10:30 a.m. – Guided Tour of Assisi,  for Registered Participants and Registered Guests

12:00 p.m. – Lunch on Own and Free Time in Assisi

2:00 p.m. – Tour of Basilica di San Francesco

4:00 p.m. – Board motorcoach to Rome,  for Registered Participants and Registered Guests

7:00 p.m. – Return to the Parco dei Principi

 

Wednesday, April 22

6:30 a.m. – Buffet Breakfast,  for Registered Participants and Registered Guests

7:30 a.m. – Board motorcoach to St. Peter's Square,  for Registered Participants and Registered Guests

9:00 a.m. – Tentative Papal General Audience,  for Registered Participants and Registered Guests

10:30 a.m. – Enjoy Lunch on Your Own 

2:00 p.m. – Guest Speaker and Integration Session, for Registered Participants

4:00 p.m. – Return to the Parco dei Principi

6:45 p.m. – Board motorcoaches for Private Tour of the Vatican Museum,  for Registered Participants and Registered Guests

8:30 p.m. – Reception and Supper at the Vatican Museum, for Registered Participants and Registered Guests

9:30 p.m. – Return to the Parco dei Principi

 

Thursday, April 23

6:30 a.m. – Buffet Breakfast,  for Registered Participants and Registered Guests

7:15 a.m. – Board motorcoach to St. Peter's Basilica

8:15 a.m. – Eucharist at St. Peter's Basilica

10:00 a.m. – Walk to Palazzo Carinale Cesi, for Registered Participants

10:00 a.m. – Board motorcoaches to Parco dei Prinicipi, for Registered Guests

10:15 a.m. – Preparatory Briefing for Dicastery Visits, for Registered Participants

10:30 a.m. – Meetings with Dicastery Officials, for Registered Participants

12:00 p.m. – Lunch, for Registered Participants

1:30 p.m. – Return to Parco dei Principi

6:30 p.m. – Board motorcoaches to dinner at Casina Valadier,  for Registered Participants and Registered Guests

7:00 p.m. – Reception and Dinner at Casina Valadier,  for Registered Participants and Registered Guests

9:00 p.m. – Return to Parco dei Principi

 

Friday, April 24

7:00 a.m. – Buffet Breakfast,  for Registered Participants and Registered Guests

8:00 a.m. – Opening Prayer and Session, for Registered Participants

9:15 a.m. – Integration Activity, for Registered Participants

10:30 a.m. – Gather to Walk to Santa Teresa Gesù Bambino in Panfilo, for Registered Participants and Registered Guests

11:00 a.m. – Prayer Service and Commissioning at Santa Teresa Gesù Bambino in Panfilo, for Registered Participants and Registered Guests

12:00 p.m. – Closing Luncheon,  for Registered Participants and Registered Guests

Know Before You Go Webinar

March 17, 2026 1 - 3 p.m. ET

This webinar offers information about the program that will help all attendees better understand and prepare for the week of activities.

All participants have been registered for this webinar in advance and received an email with login information.

During the webinar, we will cover:

  • Essential information for traveling to Rome
  • What to expect from the pilgrimage experience
  • Time for participant questions and discussion
In advance of the webinar, you will receive a packet of program materials, including participant and guest guides.

 

The Rome Participant and Guest Guides are designed to support your spiritual, logistical, and programmatic preparation for our time together. These guides, along with required pre-read materials, invite you to reflect, pray, and arrive ready to engage fully in the experience. Digital copies are linked below, and participants are asked to review the pre-reading document prior to arrival.

Travel and Hotel Information

IMPORTANT PASSPORT INFORMATION
For those who do not yet have a passport or need to renew – registered participants and guests – please note that there is a 10 – 12 week wait for application and receipt.

Please note: Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned return date from The European Union.

Though not required, we strongly encourage participants to enroll your trip in STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) with the U.S. State Department prior to travel. If you enroll in STEP you will receive important information from the Embassy about any safety conditions in your destination and help the U.S. Embassy contact you in an emergency. Visit this website to enroll - https://step.state.gov/.

Hotel

We are thrilled to host you at Parco dei Principi Grand Hotel & Spa.

The hotel is:

  • A five-star elegant urban resort nestled beside Rome's iconic Villa Borghese
  • Steps from cultural gems like the Borghese Gallery, Bioparco di Roma and Via Veneto

A CHA master account has been established to cover room and tax for the nights of April 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24. You will be responsible for any additional nights and all incidentals.

Parco dei Principi Grand Hotel & Spa
Via Geolamo Frescobaldi, 5
Rome, 00198 Italy
Phone: +39 06 85442
https://www.parcodeiprincipi.com/en

In order to arrange airport transfers, we must have your itinerary showing airline(s), flight numbers, and arrival and departure dates and times. Please submit this itinerary using the form that will be distributed to you in January.

A representative of Fourth Dimension Italy, our destination management company, will be meeting you at Rome's Fiumicino Airport. You will then be transferred to the Parco dei Principi.

Pre- or Post-Program Travel Needs

Should you require pre- or post-program travel needs, contact American Express Corporate Vacations. AMEX Corporate Vacations offers a wide selection of vacation packages and experienced leisure travel specialists who are trained to help you plan a trip best suited to your taste and budget. We encourage you to utilize this service before you start your travel to Italy.

For pre- or post-program travel, contact:

Traci Conway
(800) 851-8233, ext. 2456
The hours of operation are 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday. There are processing fees involved with travel planning, and fees will be disclosed at the beginning of your conversation. AMEX Corporate Vacations can also assist those who are Platinum AMEX card holders.

Air Travel

For air travel only, please call CHA's travel provider, American Express, at (314) 253-3442, and identify yourself as a CHA Ecclesiology participant. Participants are responsible for all air travel. For any additional travel questions or information, contact CHA at PAL@chausa.org. 

 

GENERAL

Do I need to know Italian to visit Rome?
No, many people speak English in tourist areas, but learning basic Italian phrases (e.g., "Grazie" for thank you) is helpful.

What’s the currency in Rome?The Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is useful. There are several ATMs near the hotel.

Can I drink tap water in Rome?
Yes! Rome's tap water is safe, and you can refill bottles at public fountains. The public fountains called "nasoni" are the city’s distinctive drinking fountains offering free, fresh water to visitors and are known for their cylindrical cast iron design with a curved spout resembling a nose.

What is the tipping culture in Rome?
Tipping is not mandatory but rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for excellent service is appreciated.

What should I wear in Rome?
See your participant and guest book for the attire guide to help you make decisions. In general, wear comfortable walking shoes and modest clothing when visiting churches (shoulders and knees covered). Rome enjoys a mild Mediterranean climate, but it's best to pack layers, as temperatures can drop throughout the day, especially in the evenings.

Is Rome safe for tourists?
Yes, but watch out for pickpockets, especially in crowded areas like Termini Station, the Colosseum, and public transport. Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid distractions, such as digital devices, as much as possible. Keep your belongings secure and be cautious of scams.

What are common tourist scams to avoid?

  • Fake petitions & friendship bracelets or flowers.
  • Overpriced taxis without meters.
  • Fake "helpful" ATM assistants.
  • Skip the line tickets offered by street vendors.

Do I need an adapter for my electronics?
Yes, Italy uses Type F/L plugs (230V, 50Hz). Get a universal adapter.

If I have an emergency, how do I contact CHA staff?
Diarmuid can be reached at (503) 467-8443, and Lori at (217) 415-9921.
The hotel front desk can be reached at +39 06 85442.

TRAVEL

Do I need a visa to visit Rome from the U.S.?
No, U.S. citizens do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days for tourism, business, or family visits. Starting in 2025, the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) will require U.S. travelers to apply for travel authorization before visiting. The ETIAS has not yet been launched. If it occurs before the program, CHA will inform you immediately.

What documents do I need to enter Italy?

  • A passport valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen Area.
  • An ETIAS authorization, which is set to start in the fall of 2026 but has not yet been launched.
  • It is recommended that you register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) https://mytravel.state.gov/s/step.

What will be the transportation from the airport to the hotel?
CHA will coordinate with Fourth Dimension Italy to provide a car and driver to meet you at the luggage claim. If your system is coordinating this travel, please tell Lori at lashmore-ruppel@chasua.org.

If my travel plans change, who do I contact?
If you travel plans change prior to April 13, contact Paula Bommarito at pbommarito@chausa.org. If you travel plans change after April 13, contact Fourth Dimension Italy at +39 335 6413283.

If I arrive at the airport and cannot find my driver, who should I contact?
If you are unable to find your driver, contact Fourth Dimension Italy at +39 335 6413283.

What’s the best way to get around Rome?

  • All transportation related to the program will be planned unless otherwise noted (after the tentative Papal Audience on Wednesday morning, you will need to coordinate your own travel back to the Parco).
  • Walking: Many attractions are close to each other.
  • Metro & Buses: Cheap (€1.50 per ticket) but can be crowded.
  • Taxis: Use official taxis to avoid scams.
  • Scooters & Bikes: Available but recommended for experienced riders due to traffic.

PROGRAM

When does the program start and conclude?
The program begins at 3 p.m. on Sunday, April 19 and concludes with lunch at noon on Friday, April 24.

When will participants and guests have free time during the program?

  • On Monday evening, participants and guests will enjoy the afternoon and evening on their own. It is a good day for dinner reservations.
  • On Tuesday evening, we will travel to Assisi and likely arrive back in Rome by 8 p.m.
  • Following the tentative papal audience on Wednesday afternoon, participants and guests will have a few hours for lunch and exploration of Vatican City. We will visit St. Peter’s Basilica on Thursday morning, so we suggest exploring other areas on Wednesday.
  • Following the dicastery meetings on Thursday, there will be time prior to our dinner at Casina Valadier.

When will participants be engaged in programming, and registered guests be on their own?

  • On Monday morning and early afternoon
  • On Wednesday afternoon
  • On Thursday, following liturgy at St. Peter’s Basilica

Who can I contact regarding additional tours or pre/post-vacation plans?
CHA works with a travel company, Fourth Dimension Italy, to plan the program. Representatives will be present throughout the program to assist with optional tours, making dinner reservations, and scheduling local travel. Their website can be found here: https://www.fditaly.com/ Our direct contact is Rossana Ripiccini, Travel and Event Coordinator. Her email is rossana@fditaly.com. If you contact Rossana directly, tell her you are with the CHA Ecclesiology and Spiritual Renewal Program.

HOTEL

What is the contact information for the hotel?
The Parco dei Principi Grand Hotel & Spa is at Via Geolamo Frescobaldi, 5, Rome, Italy, 00198, and can be reached at +39 06 85442. For more information regarding the hotel, visit its website at https://www.parcodeiprincipi.com/en.

What time is the check-in and check-out time?
Check-in starts from 3 p.m. and check-out is at 10 a.m.

Do you accommodate early check-in/late check-out?
We can only guarantee early check-ins for rooms reserved the prior night at the full rate based on availability. We will do our best to accommodate late checkout requests, subject to availability and not guaranteed.

What is the hotel voltage?
The hotel voltage is 220 V. Please make sure to check the voltage of your equipment before usage.

Does the hotel provide adaptors or converters?
Our concierge may provide guests with adapters (subject to availability), but no converters are available. Please contact the concierge desk if needed.

Does the hotel have safe deposit boxes?
For your convenience, there is an electronic safe box in all rooms with a personal-digit code. A safe deposit box is also available at the front desk.

Does the hotel have a business center?
The business center is available to guests.

What does the hotel's Internet cost?
The entire hotel offers complimentary Wi-Fi to all our guests.

Does the hotel offer laundry service?
Yes, the hotel offers laundry and dry cleaning services.

Does the hotel have a fitness center/Spa/pool?
The hotel is equipped with a large, modern gym featuring Technogym® equipment. The hotel offers daily fitness classes with group activities. The Prince Spa also features an indoor pool. There is also an outdoor pool available for a fee, weather permitting.

Do all hotel rooms have air conditioning?
All rooms are equipped with air conditioning.

What attractions are near the hotel?

  • Pantheon: Marvel at the architectural wonder of the Pantheon.
  • Fontana di Trevi: Toss a coin into the iconic Trevi Fountain.
  • Galleria Borghese: Visit the art museum and gardens of Galleria Borghese.
  • Spanish Steps: Climb the iconic landmark to take in stunning views.

What are some local restaurants near the hotel?
There are some restaurants in the general area.

  • Mirabelle – 14 Via di Porta Pinciana
  • Carpaccio Beef – 9 Via Marche
  • San Marco Pizzeria – 38/D Via Sardegna
  • Vladimiro – 37 Via Aurora
  • Girarrosto Fiorentino – 46 Via Sicilia
  • Girarrosto Toscano – 29 Via Campania
  • Piccolo Mondo – 39 Via Aurora
  • Cesarina – 109 Via Piemonte
  • Sapori Sardi – 79 Via Piemonte
  • Il Boncompagni – 83 Via Boncompagni

Cancellations

CANCELLATION FROM THE PROGRAM

CHA is required to pre-pay all program costs by March 19, 2026. As a result, no refunds will be offered for any program cancellations made after April 1, 2026. There is no cost to send a substitute. Please contact Lori Ashmore-Ruppel, senior director, mission services management via email or at (314) 253-3419 to register a substitute.

CANCELLATION OF SLEEP ROOMS

Many participants choose to arrive early or depart several days after the program. CHA is happy to make reservations for additional nights of stay at the program hotel. However, once those reservations are made, should you need to make any modifications, please do so on/before April 1, 2026. Any rooms that are cancelled after April 1, 2026 will be charged to the registrant at the CHA contracted room rate. CHA will bill the registrant directly for these cancelled room nights approximately six weeks after the program concludes.