What is it like to be on pilgrimage in the heart of Rome when unexpected news breaks about the Holy Father? On The Son Rise Morning Show, host Matt Swaim catches up with author, broadcaster, and EWTN host Teresa Tomeo (Catholic Connection) to share her recent experience leading a "Footsteps of the Popes" pilgrimage through Italy alongside Dr. Matthew Bunsen and Dominican Fr. Thomas Petrie.

Tomeo describes the moment her group received news of Pope Francis's hospitalization while traveling from Orvieto to Rome, and how what was meant to be a papal audience turned into an opportunity to offer prayers for the Holy Father's swift recovery. She reflects on visits to historic papal sites, including Viterbo, St. Paul Outside the Walls, St. John Lateran, and the Scavi tour beneath St. Peter's Basilica. Tomeo highlights how the experience deepened the pilgrims' appreciation for the enduring continuity and beauty of the Church, proving that while leaders come and go, the papacy remains a rock of faith. Stream now to listen!