What you need to know before your first pilgrimage

Starting off a new year with at least one resolution is a common practice.  We promise our self to change something, to put something behind, or to embark on a newly formed habit.  This new year 2019 consider a pilgrimage as part of a new year’s resolution.  Pilgrimage can be as varied as the people considering them; not only as a metaphorical image of life itself, for we are all on a journey heavenward. What we hope to gain or to satisfy is part of an inner journey that we make, often to a physical place of religious significance.  It can be an act of curiosity, a devotion to atone for sins or to implore a grace for ourselves or others. 
 
If you are one of those who are contemplating a pilgrimage this year or perhaps leading a group yourself there are some tips that you should consider when planning or organizing a pilgrimage.  

• Start your preparations 4-6 months in advance so that you have the necessary information ready for all aspects of your journey.  A well-planned pilgrimage will alleviate many unnecessary stresses.  Choose the country and location you would like to visit.  Our Catholic faith is steeped in history and potential pilgrimage sites in many parts of the world.  Preparations might include securing airfares, accommodation, transportation, checking that your passport is valid 6 months past your travel date and familiarizing yourself with food, culture, and climate.  
• Make sure if you or members of your group will require a visa for the country you wish to visit.  Getting a visa is relatively simple and doesn’t usually add a great cost to your pilgrimage, but it is a necessity before embarking on travel.  Visa applications can be obtained using online resources or phoning the consulate of the country you intend to visit.  

• When looking at places for accommodation consider researching places like convents, or monasteries.  Prices for these types of accommodations are often a fraction of the cost of a hotel, and usually include breakfast, and sometimes other optional meals, a chapel, and they keep with the simplicity of a pilgrimage.  These options often allow you to stay close to the places you would like to visit, and can accommodate many guests. 
• If you are planning on travelling to Rome you could check out this website for convent stays. Books such as Bed & Blessings by June & Anne Walsh, or Lodging in Italy’s Monasteries have proven to be great resources.  Another great website for monastery stays is https://www.monasterystays.com

• You can organize a pilgrimage on your own or use a trusted travel agent. 
• Local buses and transportation systems are usually very good at getting you places, but you can also consider hiring a local bus company if you are planning for a group.  Walking as part of a pilgrimage can also be very good if you are able. 
• Always check if you plan to take someone with limited mobility because not all pilgrimage sites are easily accessible. 

• If you are travelling as a group, plan to take an identifying feature for your group.  Something like a hat or scarf that would be worn daily, and identify the pilgrims you are travelling with, especially in a large crowd.    
• If you are going as a group, plan to take a guide with you, for some or all of your travels.  Guides can speak about the local area, know the language and customs, and can give you information that comes from their personal experience and knowledge of the area.  It can add to the entire pilgrimage experience.  

• Your travels should not be so hectic with movement and activity that you are unable to reflect, to ponder, to pray, and to experience where you are visiting.  Don’t pack too many countries into one pilgrimage.
• Use scripture and other forms of prayer to enhance the experience.
• Plan for daily Mass.  If you have a priest along with you, that makes it quite easy; otherwise you need to plan in advance for daily Mass.
• You can make arrangements with churches to have your Mass each day.
• Familiarizing yourself with the difference between a pilgrimage and a holiday helps to set the stage.
• Before going on pilgrimage, it is good to have a few social gatherings/meetings to meet fellow pilgrims and have a chance to ask questions.
• Study up on the area you want to visit, check out maps, and what events can be expected.
• Prepare a packing list
• Experience says that the more you can allow the situation of your pilgrimage to unfold, and to accept the joys and sorrows of each day, that this surrender will be life-giving.  Take time to listen to what God is speaking to you.  Give room for silence on your pilgrimage. 

Pilgrimage without a doubt can be very difficult, very enlightening, and life-changing.  Go expecting absolutely everything that God wants to give and do for you.  Entrust your pilgrimage to our Blessed Mother, asking for the graces you need, and then let her be your guide.  

On this, the Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord, take notice of Jesus living inside. Perhaps your pilgrimage will be a starting point and then finding the Light of Christ, generously sharing Him with others.

For further information on planning a pilgrimage, feel free to contact Mary Ann Donaleshen at 403-466-2432.
Sunday January 6, 2019 

​Written by: Mary Ann Donaleshen