Pilgrimage is an intensive three day Christian experience that is designed to provide a
significant foundation for individual and community spiritual growth. Grace and Growth are
combined in an exciting and energetic way.
At the Pilgrimage the participants become
increasingly aware that they are a part of a community abounding in God's grace.
The three days are a triple encounter: with Christ; with Christian brothers and
sisters; and with a Christian community.
History of Presbyterian Pilgrimage. Presbyterian Pilgrimage is an outgrowth of a movement, which originated as the Roman
Catholic Cursillo in Spain in 1948 and moved to America in the late 50's. In fact
the Presbyterian weekends in North Carolina were called Cursillos until 1997. The first
Cursillos within the US (Roman Catholic) were held in Miami, Florida in 1971. In addition
to the Roman Catholic and Presbyterian movements, there are similar expressions in the
Methodist, Reformed Episcopal, Lutheran, and other Christian churches. Today, more than 2
million Christians in 50 nations have attended a Cursillo, Pilgrimage, or similar
weekend.
Format of the Weekend. The weekend is an experience in Christian sharing and living. During the 72 hours,
fourteen talks will be presented: four talks are given by pastors and ten by lay people.
The weekend also includes chapel each morning, communion, small group discussions,
sharing, music, singing, laughter, and prayer. The talks are discussed by the participants
and will include a Christian perspective on the following subjects;
| Ideals |
| Grace |
| Lay People in the Church |
| Importance of Study |
| A day in the Life of a Christian |
| Apostolic Action |
| Obstacles to a Life in Grace |
| Christian Actions in the Community |
Each of the talks deals with living one's life in God's grace.
Who Goes to a Pilgrimage? A Pilgrimage is not designed to convert anyone to Christianity. It is meant for those
who are already faithful and committed to Christ and His church. Once again, the goal is
to encourage Christians in their lives of faith and increase their awareness of grace and
service to the church and world. During a Pilgrimage weekend, those who have previously
attended are called ''The Team," and it is their responsibility to serve you in every
possible way.
When is a Pilgrimage Held? Pilgrimages are held five times per year, usually in February, March, May, October and
November at various facilities throughout the Charlotte, Greensboro, Winston-Salem and
Fayetteville area of central North Carolina. The sites are chosen to provide the easiest
possible access for the participants at a reasonable cost.
How Can I Attend a Pilgrimage? If you would like to attend a Pilgrimage weekend please contact an individual who has
previously attended. Please also speak to your pastor since a pastor must sign the
registration when you decide to attend. If you do not know of anyone who has previously
attended, contact Jim Mason by phone at (336) 883-9902 or by email at jim.mason@ncpp.net.
What Happens After the Weekend? The weekend is only a beginning. What you learn and share during the weekend will
hopefully be taken back and put into practice in your local congregation and
community. You will be supported by many others who have attended a weekend before or with
you. Small groups of people who have attended a weekend meet regularly (usually weekly) to
affirm one another and to share the Christian life of Grace. These activities inspire,
challenge, and encourage Christian action in homes, churches and communities.
How Much Does the Weekend Cost? Costs are kept to an absolute minimum to cover the cost of lodging, meals, and supplies
for the weekend. Since it is not desired that a lack of funds might keep any person from
attending, scholarships are available. Weekend costs are expected to range around $160.
May I Go with a Spouse or Friend? Yes, it is strongly recommended that spouses and friends attend a first Pilgrimage
weekend together. Marriages and friendships can be strengthened and deepened by the
experience.
A Closing Note. Not everyone who attends a Pilgrimage weekend will receive the same benefit; but all
who attend will be blessed, and most will be strengthened in their desire to be a blessing
in their churches and Christian communities. |
