“National Eucharistic Pilgrimage to Converge in Indianapolis in July 2024: Apply Now to be a Perpetual Pilgrim!”
The National Eucharistic Congress, Inc., has announced an exciting opportunity for young Catholics to participate in a once-in-a-lifetime experience next year. The National Eucharistic Pilgrimage will see four groups of Perpetual Pilgrims accompany the Blessed Sacrament from four different points in the United States, converging on Indianapolis for the 10th National Eucharistic Congress in July 2024.
Young people between the ages of 19-29 are invited to apply to be part of this historic pilgrimage, which will cover a combined distance of 6,500 miles. The journey will be modeled after the Gospel account of Jesus’ journey to Emmaus, with pilgrims stopping at many holy sites along the way.
“We are blessed to invite young adult Catholics from across the country to discern answering the call to serve as stewards of the Risen Christ in this unique way,” said Will Peterson, President and Founder of Modern Catholic Pilgrim, the official pilgrimage partner of the National Eucharistic Congress.
The four routes of the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage are named for saintly significance corresponding to the geographical starting point, starting in San Francisco, California (Serra Route); Bemidji, Minnesota (Marian Route); New Haven, Connecticut (Seton Route); and Brownsville, Texas (Juan Diego Route).
Pilgrims will participate in daily Mass celebrations, solemn processions on Sundays, smaller processions at parishes during the week, Adoration, 40 Hours devotions, praise and worship services, lectures on the Eucharist, pilgrim testimonies, meals, and fellowship. Host families, parishes, religious orders, schools, shrines, and retreat centers will provide biblical hospitality along the way.
Baptized and practicing Catholics who are in good physical condition and willing to uphold the teachings of the Catholic Church are encouraged to apply to be Perpetual Pilgrims. The deadline to submit an application is November 28, with final selections taking place in January 2024.
“We are seeking a diverse group of faithful Catholics who bring together an array of experience in ministry, service, and pilgrimage background,” Peterson said. “We hope all those who are eligible will prayerfully consider donating their gifts and abilities by applying for this unique opportunity.”
All Catholics are encouraged to visit the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage website to learn more about the routes, patron saints, and how to get involved as day pilgrims. This promises to be a transformative and spiritually enriching experience for all who participate.