PILGRIMAGE:

A journey to a sacred place for the purpose of venerating it or to ask for heavenly aid, and ultimately to come to know God better. Christian pilgrimages were first made to sites connected with the birth, life, crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Shortly after, pilgrimages started being made to Rome and other sites associated with the Apostles, Saints and Christian martyrs, as well as places where there had been apparitions of the Virgin Mary.

As you’re learning about sacramentals this week, consider planning a visit to some holy place as part of a family vacation this summer.  Local to Minnesotans is the National Shrine of the Apostle Paul at the Cathedral, and later this spring we’ll be learning more about an approved Marian apparition site in Wisconsin.  You can find many more by doing an internet search for “shrines in the USA.”  Adding an element like this to your vacation is a great way to take your faith with you as you travel and have summer fun!