In a demonstration of faith and unity, over 1,200 believers gathered in Washington D.C. on June 8 to become part of the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage in a moving procession through the streets of the capital.
The participants, who were united in singing and prayer, prayed the Luminous Mysteries of the rosary, listened to Scripture, and followed a monstrance bearing the Most Holy Eucharist through Northeast Washington.
Participant Mark Forrest shared, “I’ve been looking forward to being a part of this since the first time I heard about it.” He joined the procession, driven by the hope that his demonstration of faith might inspire belief in others.
The celebratory event in Washington was part of the eastern Seton Route of the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage, which is on its way to the National Eucharistic Congress scheduled for July 17-21 in Indianapolis. Starting from various directions, the Marian, Serra, and Juan Diego routes will also converge in Indianapolis come mid-July.
Among the pilgrims are six ‘perpetual pilgrims’ and a priest, who are traveling with the Eucharist throughout the entire pilgrimage. Catholics from different regions are welcomed to join various segments of the journey to engage in planned events.
Natalie Garza, a perpetual pilgrim and Catholic high school theology teacher from Kansas, said, “to show that God is still with us”, is one of her motivations behind joining the pilgrimage.
Before the procession began, the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception hosted Auxiliary Bishop Evelio Menjivar for Mass, with Cardinal Wuerl and about 36 priests concelebrating. The Mass was attended by more than 2,000 faithful, with at least half of them joining the subsequent procession.
Father Michael J.K. Fuller, who preached at the Mass, expressed admiration for the participation and reminded everyone that they were “literally on a journey with Christ.”
As the Catholic Church observed the feast of the Immaculate Heart of Mary on the same day, Father Fuller urged the pilgrims to follow Mary’s example of embracing the real presence of the Lord.
The pilgrimage offered prayers for world leaders, and an end to violence in Ukraine, Haiti, and the Holy Land, before inviting participants to silently adore the Most Blessed Sacrament exposed on the altar.
The procession traced a route through Northeast Washington’s Brookland neighborhood, with stops for Scripture reflections and adoration. Participants came in various forms, with some in wheelchairs, and others pushing strollers or pulling wagons, all professing their belief in the Eucharist.
The event attracted the attention of local residents, some of whom showed reverence as the procession passed by their homes, while the pilgrims moved through the city.
The day began before dawn at the National Shrine as people, including three Virginia Tech students, arrived to be part of the solemn occasion. They expressed gratitude for their faith and a desire to pray for their academic success.
The pilgrimage concluded at the St. St. John Paul II National Shrine with Benediction and catechesis.
Richard Szczepanowski, the managing editor of the Catholic Standard of the Archdiocese of Washington, provides the detailed report.
FAQ Section
What was the purpose of the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage?
The purpose of the pilgrimage was to bring Catholics together to pray and show public devotion to Jesus Christ in the Eucharist, as they journeyed towards the National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis.
How many routes are there for the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage, and what are they named?
There are four routes named Seton, Marian, Serra, and Juan Diego, each originating from different directions and converging in Indianapolis.
What were the spiritual activities included in the pilgrimage procession?
Participants prayed the rosary, listened to Scripture readings, and had times of adoration and reflection.
Can anyone join the pilgrimage, or is it limited to certain individuals?
All Catholics are invited to join in on any segment of the pilgrimage and partake in associated events.
Were there any special themes or feasts observed during the pilgrimage event in Washington D.C.?
Yes, it coincided with the feast of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, with participants encouraged to draw inspiration from Mary’s love and reverence for the Lord.