I was in the piazza when he was elected and, by chance, at 7:35 a.m. when he died. I was also the first “reporting” from the square when news leaked that he had passed.
I have met him 15 times.
It was my goddaughter who famously took his zucchetto.
I also helped Pete take a ride in the Popemobile.
I was there when he was released from the hospital.
I was blessed to be able to visit him lying in state in his private chapel in Domus Santa Marta.
I’ve taken over one thousand people to see Pope Francis.
I have personally attended hundreds of papal events with Pope Francis.
Here is my bio.
And here are some recent media appearances.
My contact info: +39.342.350.8915 / mtn@thecatholictraveler.com
Hi, I’m Mountain. I design and lead small group Catholic Pilgrimages throughout Europe and the Holy Land.
I spent a decade working in the music industry. After a night out talking travel with Robert Smith of The Cure, I quit my job at a major record label, bought a one-way ticket to Rome, and started The Catholic Traveler.
I’m the reason Chick-fil-a says “my pleasure” – true story.
Connect with me on Instagram and Substack.
Contact me here.
My Catholic Pilgrimages
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Day Tours of Catholic Rome
I offer private Day Tours of Catholic Rome. I focus on the churches of Rome and consider these day pilgrimages with time for confession, prayer, and sometimes Holy Mass.
I can also customize itineraries to focus on different themes.
City Guides
I’ve written several free travel guides, which I update constantly, including…
- The Catholic Traveler’s Guide to Rome
- The Catholic Traveler’s Guide to Assisi
- Guide to Packing for Europe and the Holy Land
Blogs, Vlogs, and Podcasts
Nearly two decades of blogging about Catholic travel tips and destinations can be found here.
I occasionally share walking video tours around Rome on YouTube.
There was a podcast and there may be again someday.
But most of my creative travel content goes to Instagram. Photos, video tours, and Tipsy Tuesday.
In the media
I am often interviewed about the Vatican, life in Rome, and all things travel.
Recently: NBC Nightly News, NBC Today Show, ABC World News Tonight, BBC World News, EWTN.
Most people remember when my goddaughter stole the pope’s “hat.”
Some may remember when I helped Pete get a ride in the Pope-mobile.
And who can forget the blackout at the Vatican when the US SWAT Team landed a helicopter in the middle of Saint Peter’s Square, there was a gunfight with the Swiss Guard, then Pope Francis was arrested and replaced with a hologram.
How to reach me
Email: mtn@thecatholictraveler.com
WhatsApp / Text: +39.342.350.8915
Socials: Instagram, Twitter / X