Pilgrimages

What are Pilgrimages and Why Do We Do Them?

Excerpts from an article written by Fr. James Conlon

A pilgrimage is best defined as a journey to a sacred place undertaken as an act of religious devotion, often with the purpose of strengthening one’s faith or seeking divine intercession by paying homage to the Lord or one of the saints. From the earliest days of our Catholic faith, pilgrimages have played a role in the life of the faithful. As the gospel spread through the known world, so did the desire in the hearts of many to visit the sites mentioned in Scripture, especially those where Jesus lived and died and proclaimed the Kingdom. To these would later be added the places where the early saints, like Peter and Paul, heroically preached the gospel and planted the seeds of faith.

That desire to go on pilgrimage has never gone away. Yes, transport has greatly improved and most holy places are more accessible but the benefits of a pilgrimage, whether local or international, for our souls and our faith lives, remain undiminished. By going on pilgrimage we not only learn more about the life of Jesus or a particular saint, but appreciate more deeply the truth of our faith as we walk in their footsteps. I can honestly say that my visit to the Holy Land impacted not just my own spiritual life but even the way I proclaim the Gospel at Mass. Having knelt and prayed where Jesus was born and celebrated Mass where he died at Calvary, the very words of the Gospels are transformed.

In many ways all life is like a pilgrimage; learning to encounter Christ, to grow in faith, to be strong in our witness, to live in hope of salvation. Yet going on pilgrimage allows us to strengthen that faith and deepens that hope. It reminds us that we are never alone on the journey but always with others, together seeking the Lord.



Upcoming Pilgrimages

St. Francis Parish provides many opportunities for pilgrimage throughout the year! Check back soon for upcoming opportunities.