The Latin word peregrinum is the root for the word pilgrim. The Latin word is meant to convey a purposeful wandering. Hence, going on a pilgrimage is a purposeful wandering for a spiritual gain. From the Christian perspective, the idea of a pilgrimage is almost as old as Christianity itself. From the earliest centuries there exists evidence that the early Christians made it a point to travel to the holy sites. Because of the legalization of Christianity and a desire for Christians to visit the holy sites of the Church, pilgrimages began to flourish. Initially, many would travel to Jerusalem to visit the land where Christ walked. But eventually, pilgrimages began to be popular in other regions of the world as well. Possibly the most famous is the Camino de Santiago. This ancient pilgrimage route travels to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela, which houses the remains of St. James.
For years, people have been traveling this pilgrimage wandering towards the relics of St. James asking for miracles and for guidance. In July of 2020 Father Gary Clark and I will lead a group on this ancient pilgrimage route. If you have ever wanted to go on a pilgrimage, this might be a good time for you to do so. If you find yourself searching for meaning, for happiness or for healing, then a pilgrimage might be a good beginning. At this time, we estimate that the cost of the trip will be about $2,000 per person. If you are interested in walking with us on the Camino email me at frwillsjpc@gmail.com or Fr. Gary Clark at gary.clark@pastoral.org.
We hope that you can join us on this journey.
