During the Memorial Day weekend, the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage was in full swing as it made its way across several states, including New York, where an unforgettable procession took place on the Brooklyn Bridge on May 26. Riya D’Souza-Pereira was among the hundreds of faithful who felt deeply moved by the gathering, describing the scene as “amazing” and acknowledging the powerful emotions it stirred.
The spiritual event marked a key moment for the pilgrimage, which originated from the Archdiocese of New York and the Diocese of Brooklyn. New York Auxiliary Bishop Gerardo J. Colacicco and Bishop Robert J. Brennan led the benediction, after which the Eucharist in the monstrance continued its journey into Brooklyn.
Since its commencement the previous week from disparate locations—California, Connecticut, Minnesota, and Texas—the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage has witnessed “perpetual pilgrims” journey by foot, brimming with faith, towards the upcoming National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis from July 17-21.
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Throughout New York, participants engaged in Masses, adoration, and processions. A nautical blessing was given by Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan from New York Harbor, near the Statue of Liberty, emphasizing the profound importance of the Eucharist to Catholics.
In St. Paul, Minnesota, a gigantic procession of approximately 7,000 Catholics unfolded across a 4.5-mile stretch, with Archbishop Bernard A. Hebda leading the group alongside other prelates. Miraculously, the weather held out, allowing the procession to grace the streets under sunny skies, leaving observers in awe.
The southern route included a procession following Sunday Mass in the Diocese of Corpus Christi, Texas, with Bishop W. Michael Mulvey officiating. Elizabeth Morales, the diocese’s social media coordinator, remarked on the “reverent movement” as they walked, witnessing Jesus’ presence among them.
The western route took perpetual pilgrims from California, across Lake Tahoe, into Nevada, then onto Reno, and finally traversing Oregon into Idaho, where Bishop Peter F. Christensen welcomed them for adoration.
As these routes unfold across the nation, prayerful fervor continues to build within communities, supporting and energizing the pilgrims as they trek onward. Marina Frattaroli, a perpetual pilgrim from New York, echoed this sentiment, seeking prayers for the fruit of their efforts and the ongoing revival within the church.
This report includes additional contributions from John Lavenburg and Ed Wilkinson of The Tablet, Anna Wilgenbusch of The Catholic Spirit, Emily Woodham of the Idaho Catholic Register, Father Patrick Mary Briscoe of Our Sunday Visitor, and Maria Wiering of OSV News.
FAQs about the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage
What is the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage?
The National Eucharistic Pilgrimage is a faith journey across the United States that culminates in the National Eucharistic Congress. Catholics join in walking routes while carrying and adoring the Eucharist, affirming its significance to their faith and sharing their devotion with others.
When and where will the National Eucharistic Congress take place?
The National Eucharistic Congress is set to occur from July 17-21 in Indianapolis.
What are the main objectives of this pilgrimage?
The pilgrimage aims to revive faith in the Eucharist as the source and summit of Catholic life, to bring together Catholics in shared devotion, and to witness the presence of Christ in communities across the nation.
How can people participate or support the pilgrimage?
People can participate by joining in the organized processions and events along the routes, supporting the pilgrims with hospitality and prayer, and following their journey through various media and online platforms.
What significance does the pilgrimage hold for Catholics?
For Catholics, the pilgrimage is a profound expression of their belief in the real presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist. It is an opportunity to publicly profess faith and grow spiritually through the act of pilgrimage.