June 4

Some thoughts surrounding PILGRIMAGE:

• A journey to a sacred place. A journey taken by a PILGRIM.
• The English term ‘pilgrim’ originally comes from the Latin word peregrinus (per, through + ager, field, country, land), which means a foreigner, a stranger, someone on a journey, or a temporary resident.
• ‘Pilgrimage’ is a wide-ranging topic touching on many aspects of human existence, signifying not only a physical journey to a special place, but also an inner spiritual journey and indeed life itself.
• Being “on the way.” Breaking out of and breaking into our normal paradigms and routines.
• A journey to a holy place, which can lead to a personal transformation, after which the pilgrim returns to their daily life.

O God,

Be for us our companion on the walk,

Our guide at the crossroads,

Our breath in our weariness,

Our protection in danger,

Our refuge on the Way,

Our shade in the heat,

Our light in the darkness,

Our consolation in our discouragements,

And our strength in our intentions.

So that with your guidance

we may arrive safe and sound

at the end of the Road

enriched with grace and virtue

may we return safely to our homes

filled with joy.

In the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen