AN ENRICHING TRIP TO PHILADELPHIA

Bishop Grimes students ventured out of state last weekend to visit historical and religious sites in Philadelphia. Here is a summary of the trip written by Mr. Capponi.

We started by crossing state lines and visiting the iconic Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Standing in the shadow of Lady Liberty and imagining the millions who passed through Ellis Island was a powerful and humbling experience.

For a break from the historical sites, we indulged in some friendly competition at Dave & Busters. The classic arcade games brought out the playful side in everyone.

Back in Philly, we soaked up American history at Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were signed. Following the footsteps of the Founding Fathers, we toured Ben Franklin's House, picturing him conducting experiments and writing his witty observations. We visited Ben Franklin’s Printing Press, witnessing the fascinating birth of the printed word firsthand.

Stepping into the quaint Betsy Ross House was like stepping back in time. The modest brick dwelling felt unchanged for centuries, filled with period furniture and sewing utensils. Just a short walk away, Christ Church stood tall and graceful. This historic house of worship was a place of gathering for many Founding Fathers, including George Washington and Benjamin Franklin. Across the street, we visited Christ Church Burial Ground to see the final resting place of Benjamin Franklin. And of course, we couldn't miss the Liberty Bell, a symbol of freedom that resonated deeply.

We made a spiritual visit to The National Shrine of St. John Neumann. Tucked away in the city, the shrine offered a moment of quiet reflection. Inside we paid our respects to the remains of St. John Neumann, the first American male saint. The small museum offered a glimpse into his life and contributions to the Catholic Church in America.

We made our way to the Museum of the American Revolution. Here, history came alive! Interactive exhibits showcased the stories of the colonists, the founding fathers, and the fight for independence.

Reading Terminal Market was a haven for foodies, with vendors offering an incredible variety of fresh produce, meats, and of course, cheesesteaks!

Philadelphia's connection to the Rocky films is undeniable, so we had to climb the iconic Rocky Steps and snap a photo with the Rocky Statue.

We visited the beautiful Cathedral Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul for Mass.

Finally, we took a trip to the Gettysburg Battlefield. Walking the grounds made history come alive, allowing us to better understand the sacrifices made during the Civil War.

Philadelphia offered something for everyone in our group. We learned about American history, indulged in delicious food, and had a lot of fun.